Dermal Fillers

Dermal Fillers Q&A

What areas can you have dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are commonly used to add volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial features. The areas where dermal fillers can be used include:

1. Lips and mouth area: Dermal fillers can be used to plump up lips, smooth out lip lines, and enhance the contours around the mouth.

2. Cheeks: Dermal fillers can be used to add volume to the cheeks and create a more youthful, lifted appearance.

3. Nasolabial folds: These are the lines that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth. Dermal fillers can be used to smooth out these lines and reduce their appearance.

4. Marionette lines: These are the lines that run from the corners of the mouth down to the chin. Dermal fillers can be used to lift and smooth out these lines.

5. Under-eye area: Dermal fillers can be used to fill in hollows or dark circles under the eyes and reduce the appearance of bags or wrinkles.

6. Temples: Dermal fillers can be used to add volume to the temples and create a more youthful, rounded appearance.

7. Jawline: Dermal fillers can be used to enhance the jawline and create a more defined, sculpted look.

It’s important to note that while dermal fillers can be used in many areas of the face, they should always be administered by a trained and experienced medical professional.

Are there different types of filler?

Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most popular type of dermal filler and are made from a substance that occurs naturally in the body. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be used to add volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial features. It’s important to note that each type of dermal filler has its own benefits and risks, and the choice of filler will depend on the individual’s goals, skin type, and medical history. A qualified and experienced medical professional can help determine the best type of dermal filler for each patient.

How much filler will I need?

The amount of dermal filler needed will depend on several factors, including the area being treated, the desired outcome, and individual factors such as skin thickness and facial anatomy. The amount of filler required can also vary depending on the type of filler used, as some fillers are more concentrated than others.

The best way to determine how much dermal filler you will need is to schedule a consultation with a qualified and experienced medical professional. During the consultation, the provider will evaluate your skin and facial anatomy, discuss your goals and expectations, and recommend a treatment plan that takes into account your individual needs.

It’s important to note that the amount of filler used should be appropriate for the area being treated and should not be excessive. Over-filling can lead to an unnatural or distorted appearance and increase the risk of complications. A skilled and experienced provider will aim to achieve a natural-looking result that enhances your facial features.

 

 

How long do they last?

The duration of the effects of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers can vary depending on several factors, including the type of filler used, the area of the face treated, and the individual’s metabolism and lifestyle. In general, the effects of hyaluronic acid fillers typically last between six months to a year.

Some hyaluronic acid fillers, such as those with a higher concentration of hyaluronic acid, can last longer, up to 18 months. However, the duration of the effects can also be influenced by factors such as the patient’s age, skin quality, and the amount of filler injected.

It’s important to note that the effects of dermal fillers are not permanent and will gradually fade over time. To maintain the results, a patient may need to undergo additional treatments. It’s also important to have dermal fillers injected by a qualified and experienced medical professional who can ensure safe and effective treatment and minimise the risk of complications.

Will I see a result immediately?

In many cases, patients will see some immediate results after their dermal filler treatment, although the full effects may take a few days to become apparent. The extent and speed of the results will depend on several factors, including the type of filler used, the area being treated, and the individual’s metabolism.

Hyaluronic acid fillers, which are the most commonly used type of dermal filler, typically produce immediate results. Patients may notice an improvement in the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, or volume loss as soon as the treatment is complete.

However, it’s important to note that swelling and bruising can occur after dermal filler treatment, and this can temporarily mask the results. Swelling and bruising usually subside within a few days, after which the full effects of the treatment become apparent.

It’s also important to have realistic expectations about the results of dermal filler treatment. While dermal fillers can produce significant improvements in the appearance of the skin and facial features, they are not a permanent solution and will eventually wear off. The duration of the effects will depend on several factors, including the type of filler used, the area being treated, and the individual’s metabolism.

Is there any side effects or serious risks?

Like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with dermal filler treatment. However, serious risks are rare when the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced medical professional.

The most common side effects of dermal filler treatment include bruising, swelling, redness, and tenderness at the injection site. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, resolving within a few days to a week.

More serious complications are rare but can include:

1. Infections: Dermal filler injections can introduce bacteria into the skin, leading to an infection. Signs of an infection include redness, swelling, pain, and fever.

2. Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to the ingredients in dermal fillers, leading to an allergic reaction that can cause itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

3. Vascular occlusion: This occurs when a blood vessel is blocked by the filler material, leading to tissue damage and potentially severe complications.

4. Nodules or lumps: In some cases, dermal fillers can cause the formation of small nodules or lumps under the skin.

5. Tissue damage: Rarely, dermal fillers can cause damage to the surrounding tissue, including nerve damage, scarring, or skin necrosis.

To minimise the risk of complications, it’s important to choose a qualified and experienced medical professional to perform the procedure, follow all pre-and post-treatment instructions carefully, and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly.

How long before a special occasion should I have fillers done?
If you’re having fillers for an occasion such as a wedding or a holiday please do at least 6 weeks before just to factor in recovery time/interventions if needed (although this is rare)
Where do I buy and how do I apply numbing cream?

Before applying

Make sure you plan ahead before you use Emla – the cream takes a while to achieve its numbing effect. Put it on about 1 hour before your procedure. Make sure you check the Patient Information Leaflet for details.

After applying

Don’t rub in the cream; you need a thick layer for Emla’s numbing effect.

 

Click on this link to find our where to buy EMLA numbing cream: Hate needles? Love Emla. Reduce the pain with Emla numbing cream  

Click on this link to read the patient information leaflet: Patient Information Leaflet (medicines.org.uk)

Click below to view tips for preparing for filler treatment.