Dermal fillers are made up of a gel like substance. This substance occurs naturally in our body. It is broken down and replaced every day. As we age the production of hyaluaronic acid decreases resulting in volume loss, sagging and wrinkle formation especially in the face. Dermal fillers can be injected into the face to replace the lost volume. Dermal fillers are a more cross linked form of hyaluaronic acid and therefore takes longer for your body to break it down. So fillers can last anywhere from 6- 18 months, sometimes longer depending on the product used and the individual.
The procedure can take 30 – 45 minutes, depending on the area treated. Results are instant. There may be some immediate swelling and redness, which usually resolves over the next 1-3 days. Bruising can also occur which is temporary and can be covered with makeup. Other less common side effects will be discussed with you before the procedure. The safety profile is excellent as millions of procedures have been performed around the world.
The most common facial areas treated with anti-wrinkle injections are:
- Peri-oral lines (lines around the mouth)
- Nasolabial lines (nose to mouth lines)
- Lip enhancement,
- Cheek enhancement
- Disguising eye bags/filling tear troughs
- Temporal hollows
- Chin enhancement
- Brow shaping/lifting
- Acne scars
- Non-surgical facelift
- Non-surgical jowl reduction
The fillers used have a local anaesthetic in them to make the procedure more comfortable. Sometimes a dental block can be used especially for the lip area if the patient is more sensitive.
Dermal fillers are great for smoothing out deep folds, fine lines and restoring volume that is lost as we age. Also known as a ‘Liquid face lift’.