What is Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are injections used to replace facial volume lost with age, soften deep lines and support the contours of the face.
At our clinic we mainly use fillers containing hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body. An important advantage of hyaluronic acid fillers is that they can be dissolved with a special enzyme if needed.
How does it work?
Hyaluronic acid binds water and adds volume and hydration to the treated area. Products of different densities are chosen according to the needs of areas such as the lips, cheeks, jawline or fine lines.
The aim is a natural, rested look without disturbing your facial proportions.
When is it used?
- Lip volume and lip border definition
- Lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth (nasolabial folds)
- Volume loss in the cheeks and cheekbones
- Hollows under the eyes
- Chin and jawline definition
- Lines at the corners of the mouth (marionette lines)
How is it done?
- 1Facial analysis and discussion of expectations.
- 2Planning the treatment areas.
- 3Treatment with numbing cream and a fine needle or cannula.
- 4Follow-up appointment.
Before
- Blood-thinning medication, fish oil and alcohol in the week before treatment can increase the risk of bruising; consult your doctor.
- There should be no cold sores or infection in the area; mention it if you are prone to cold sores.
- Planning treatment at least 2 weeks before an important event is recommended.
During the treatment
- A facial analysis is carried out and the treatment is planned.
- Numbing cream is applied; most products also contain a local anaesthetic.
- The treatment is carried out with a fine needle or cannula and takes 20–30 minutes.
After
- Mild swelling and bruising may last 1–3 days; a cold compress helps.
- Avoid make-up for the first 24 hours, and saunas, steam rooms and strong sun for 2 weeks.
- A follow-up appointment is made after 2 weeks.
When will I see results? The result is visible immediately; the final result becomes clear once the swelling subsides. Depending on the product and area, it usually lasts 6–18 months.
Possible side effects
- Swelling, bruising and tenderness
- Temporary unevenness or a feeling of fullness
- Rarely infection or an allergic reaction
- Very rarely vascular occlusion — which is why the treatment must be performed by a physician with a thorough knowledge of anatomy
Who is it not suitable for?
It is not used, or only planned after medical assessment, in the following situations:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Active infection or cold sores at the treatment site
- Certain autoimmune diseases
Sources
- Funt D, Pavicic T. Dermal fillers in aesthetics: an overview of adverse events and treatment approaches. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2013;6:295–316.
