Dermal fillers are injectable treatments used to add volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Unlike anti-wrinkle injections, which relaxes muscles, dermal fillers work by filling in areas under the skin. They are commonly used to address:
Nasolabial Folds: Lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth.
Marionette Lines: Lines running from the corners of the mouth to the chin.
Cheek Volume: To enhance the fullness of cheeks.
Lips: To add volume and shape.
Under-Eye Hollows: To fill in hollow areas beneath the eyes.
Jawline and Chin: To enhance contour and definition.
Nose: To reshape the shape of the nose temporarily
Scars: To improve the appearance of certain types of scars.
Temples: To improve the temple hollowness.
There are several types of dermal fillers, each with unique properties suited to different treatment areas and goals:
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
Fillers Brands: Teoxane, Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero.
Description: HA is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps retain moisture and adds volume.
Duration: Typically lasts 6-18 months, depending on the specific product and area treated.
Benefits: Immediate results, reversible with hyaluronidase if needed.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite
Fillers Brand: Radiesse.
Description: This filler is composed of calcium-based microspheres suspended in a gel.
Duration: Results can last up to 12 months or longer.
Benefits: Stimulates collagen production, provides natural-looking results.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid
Fillers Brand: Sculptra.
Description: A synthetic biodegradable substance that stimulates collagen production.
Duration: Results develop gradually over a few months and can last up to 2 years.
Benefits: Long-lasting effects, especially suitable for facial volume restoration.
Dermal fillers work by injecting a gel-like substance beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines, or enhance facial contours. The specific mechanism depends on the type of filler used:
Volume Replacement: Fillers like HA and calcium hydroxylapatite directly add volume to the treated area.
Collagen Stimulation: Fillers like poly-L-lactic acid stimulate the body’s natural collagen production, providing gradual and lasting results.
Here’s what you can expect during a dermal filler treatment:
Consultation
Assessment: During your initial consultation, your practitioner practitioner will assess your facial structure, skin condition, and discuss your aesthetic goals.
Planning: A customised treatment plan will be created, detailing the areas to be treated and the type of filler best suited for your needs.
Preparation
Cleaning: The treatment area will be cleaned thoroughly to prevent infection.Anaesthetic: Depending on the filler and treatment area, a topical anaesthetic may be applied to minimise discomfort.
Injection Technique: Using a fine needle or cannula, the practitioner will inject the filler into the targeted areas. The number of injections will depend on the treatment plan.Duration: The injection process typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the extent of the treatment.
Post-Injection Aftercare Instructions: You’ll receive instructions on how to care for the treated area. This usually includes avoiding strenuous activity, excessive sun or heat exposure, and certain facial treatments for a few days.
Immediate Effects: Some swelling, redness, or bruising may occur, but these side effects typically subside within a few days.
Onset of Results: Results are usually visible immediately, especially with HA fillers. However, full results may take a few days to settle.
Duration of Effects: The longevity of results varies by filler type. HA fillers typically last 6-18 months, while other types can last longer.
Maintenance: Follow-up treatments are needed to maintain the desired effect. Your practitioner will advise on the appropriate schedule based on the filler used and your individual needs.
Non-Surgical: No surgery or general anaesthesia required.
Quick Procedure: Often completed in a single office visit.
Immediate Results: Visible improvement right after the treatment.
Customisable: Tailored to address specific areas and individual goals.
Minimal Downtime: Most patients resume normal activities immediately.
While dermal fillers are generally safe, there are some potential side effects and risks:
Common Side Effects: Temporary redness, swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort at the injection site.
Rare Side Effects: Infection, allergic reactions, lumps or bumps, and asymmetry.
Severe Complications: Though very rare, complications such as vascular occlusion (blocked blood vessel) can occur, requiring immediate medical attention.
To maintain the smooth, youthful appearance achieved with dermal fillers, consider the following:
Regular Treatments: Schedule follow-up treatments as advised by your practitioner.
Healthy Lifestyle: Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure, stay hydrated, and maintain a balanced diet.
Skin Care: Use high-quality skincare products and consider complementary treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion to enhance results.
Myth: Dermal fillers will make your face look unnatural.
Fact: When administered by a skilled practitioner, fillers provide natural-looking results.
Myth: Fillers are only for women.
Fact: Men also benefit from dermal fillers to address facial volume loss and enhance features.
Myth: Fillers are permanent.
Fact: Most dermal fillers provide temporary results, requiring maintenance treatments.
Dermal fillers offer a versatile and effective solution for those looking to enhance their facial features, restore lost volume, and achieve a more youthful appearance. By understanding the different types of fillers, the procedure, and what to expect, you can make an informed decision and achieve the best possible results. Always consult with a qualified practitioner to ensure a safe and successful treatment tailored to your needs.