Dermal Fillers

Also known as dermal fillers or some term them as injectable or soft tissue fillers. Typically used in minimally invasive aesthetic medicine to volumize, alter the contours of the face, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles to reverse the signs of aging. Resulting in a fuller and smoother appearance. Many have the misconception that all fillers are the same however, they work differently while they do compliment and can work together creating comprehensive results.

Most fillers contain an active ingredient called hyaluronic acid. A natural substance that can be found in the human body that aids the lubrication of joints, tissue repairs and collagen production. Another type of dermal fillers are such that contains compounds that when inject, speeds up the prodcution of collagen to volumize and stimulate the body’s fibroblast for longer-lasting effects.Some common brands includes Juvederm, Restylane, Captique, Esthelis, Hylaform, Sculptra, Radiesse, Ellanse.

Good fillers are often invisible – when injected by a highly-skilled doctor, fillers should look natural and subtle that goes unnoticeable. For the best results and advice, you should seek a qualified and certified doctor.

1. Assessment & Mapping
2. Cleanse & Anesthetize
3. Injection Administered
4. Clean up & Recovery

Dermal fillers administered with a syringe to areas such as the face, head, around the eyes, jawline, lips, and forehead. As with the location, the number and depth of the injection are very dependant on the type of fillers used in accordance with the desired results.

Some fillers may contain local anesthetic including lidocaine. This is to enhance comfort while administering the treatments. Alternatively, a numbing cream may also be an option.

The procedure only takes a few minutes depending on the number of injections required. Normal activities can be resumed following the treatment. While common side effects involve redness, bruising, minimal bruising which usually goes away within a day or two. However, if symptoms persist, it is best to check with your doctor.

Mild swelling and bruising may occur which should subside on its own. Some initial appearance following the treatment could result in a temporary overfilled area, temporary numbness, palpable lumps, hard areas at the site, hypersensitivity reaction. 

Such conditions can be relieved with topical icing and gentle massage. However, if your treatment involves using your own fat as fillers, the healing process may take a longer time.

Results will be visible approximately 4 weeks after the treatment. How long the effects would last is highly dependent on every individual, the product used, and the area of treatment. Typically ranging from 6 to 18 months. Maintaining overall health with appropriate products and treatment can improve results longevity.

Note:

• avoid intense heat (sauna)
• avoid putting pressure on the treated area
• avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours
• avoid alcohol for 24 hours
• avoid using AHA, Retinols/Vitamin C therapy or other oil-based makeup for 24 hours
• avoid facials, waxing, peels, IPL, energy-based, and microdermabrasion treatment for up to 2 weeks. Do check with your doctor before undergoing them.

Serious complications from dermal fillers are uncommon if performed correctly. Potential risk includes

• Asymmetry
• Bruising, bleeding, and swelling from the site
• Wound and scarring from skin damage
• Infection of the site
• Lumps
• Under or over correction of concern
• Blindness
• Skin necrosis