Overview
Around the age of 25 the body stops producing collagen and elastin, these proteins are essential for skin elasticity and firmness. Decrease in these proteins leads to the typical signs of ageing (loss of volume and sagging). In addition over time, fat pads that provide structure to the face diminish in volume which contributes to 'hollow cheeks', sunken eyes and a less youthful appearance.
Dermal fillers can restore and re-volumise skin and facial contours to form a more youthful appearance and are longer lasting than botulinum toxins. They can also smooth lines and wrinkles and define shape of certain structures e.g. lips.
There are many different products on the market, including Juvederm, Teoxane and Intraline. Most brands of dermal fillers are composed of hyaluronic acid.
Before treatment, you will be asked a series of medical questions and the target area will be examined to determine your suitability. Some medications and medical conditions may influence the decision to proceed, so a full medical history and assessment are essential beforehand.
Treatment may not be suitable for the following:
Those with hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid or to any of its excipients e.g. lidocaine
Pregnant and breastfeeding
Infected skin area e.g. cold sores
Bleeding disorders
<18 years of age
This substance is a naturally occurring sugar chain molecule found in the skin and soft tissues throughout the body. It helps retain moisture by attracting and binding water, which adds volume and hydration to the skin. It also supports collagen and elastin fibres. Dermal fillers are created by cross-linking this molecule with proteins.
Dermal fillers can be used in aesthetics for various purposes:
Enhance, define, shape and rejuvinate lips.
Fill deep lines around the mouth such as nasolabial, marionette and barcode lines.
Contour and enhance temples, cheeks, nose, chin and jawline.
Soften wrinkles and lines in forehead and frown area.
Rejuvinate and soften hollows under eyes (tear troughs)
Most people will be able to continue with normal activities immediately
You may notice small amount of bleeding at the injection site which tends to settle within 15 minutes
Bruising is common
You're encouraged to sit upright for the 1st hour following treatment.
Avoid makeup for 24 hours after the procedure.
In addition avoid exercise, alcohol, hot drinks, hot environments and do not touch injection sites for 24 hours after procedure.
Immediate effects will be visible, but swelling may take 2 weeks to settle.
Depending on filler used, effects may last for 6-18 months.
All treatments carry a degree of risk. Side effects include but are not limited to:
Sweating
Redness
Bruising
Itching
Tenderness
These effects typically subside within a few days. Swelling is often more noticeable the following morning but usually reduces within a few hours. Bruising may take 7–10 days to resolve, though in some cases it can last longer.
The procedure itself is not normally painful, although some patients may feel a mild stinging or pinching sensation.
Most leading brands of dermal fillers contain a local anaesthetic, however we may still use topical anaesthetic cream to numb the skin and hence minimise discomfort.
Effects of treatment generally last between 6-18 months, however this can vary between individuals, area treated, type of filler used and individual factors such as metabolism.
Lip Filler
Lip fillers can add volume, definition, and shape, while also smoothing fine lines around the mouth. They can be used to enhance shape and add volume to the lips.
Nasolabial folds
Dermal filler injections help restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, and create a more youthful, refreshed look by evening out the skin’s contours.
Cheek Filler
Cheek fillers help restore volume and rejuvenate both the mid and lower face—all without any downtime.