Dermal Fillers FAQs
What are Dermal Fillers?
ExpandDermal Fillers are a name for a group of injectable treatments which help to plump up and volumise the skin. They are used to minimise the appearance of lines and wrinkles, sculpt the face and neck or enhance features such as the lips or cheeks.
The brands we use are made from Hyaluronic Acid which also occurs naturally in the skin. Some fillers are permanent but we only use non-permanent fillers, which break down in the body after a period of 6-18 months.
How do I choose which injectable is right for me?
ExpandYour clinician will advise you on which products are best for your skin during your initial consultation. You may have an idea of the dermal filler treatment you’d like, so do let us know – but we will always discuss all the options with you before beginning any work. This way we are able to explain why we feel a certain course of action would give the best results.
Which brands of Dermal filler are available in the clinic?
ExpandThe dermal fillers we offer are Juvéderm® and Teoxane. These are non-permanent gels which restore or add volume to the face. Both products are hyaluronic acid based, which is already found in the skin and is designed to create a naturally rejuvenated effect. We use these brands because they are pioneers in the market, and we believe they are safest, always reliable and longest-lasting.
What should I expect from my Dermal filler treatment?
ExpandDuring a treatment with either Juvéderm® or Teoxane dermal fillers, the product is injected with a tiny needle into the face. This will be done by a qualified medical practitioner with years of experience.
The treatment will consist of a number of small injections that your medical practitioner will guide you through. Your treatment, including initial consultation, will take around 45 minutes. You’ll be comfortable on one of our hydraulic treatment chairs throughout, whilst soft music and lighting will help you feel relaxed.
For patients that are nervous, we can also use a numbing cream, a stress ball and always offer a hand to hold.
Are Dermal fillers suitable for everyone?
ExpandDermal fillers should not be used whilst pregnant or breastfeeding. Some major illnesses, allergies or high sensitivity to medications such as Lidocaine may also make this treatment unsuitable. If you have a tendency to keloidal reactions, or an active skin infection such as spots, cold sores or ulcers, we would advise against continuing. Our team will always ensure any treatment is right for you before beginning.
How soon will I notice results?
ExpandThe impact of dermal fillers can often be seen immediately as the product plumps up and firms the skin. It’s a fairly instant treatment for firming, contouring, volumising or smoothing wrinkles.
Are fillers permanent or how long will they last?
ExpandJuvéderm® and Teoxane dermal fillers are non-permanent and resorbable, meaning treatments won’t last forever. How long you will continue to see the effects depends on the type of filler used. In general, you could expect a cross-linked molecule hyaluronic acid filler like this to last between 6 and 18 months.
What side effects are possible from Dermal fillers?
ExpandAs with any injectable treatment, there is a chance of some minor redness, bruising and swelling at the injection sites. This should heal within 7 days. More prominent bleeding or bruising may occur if you take anti-coagulant medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Some supplements such as St. John’s Wort, Omega 3 fatty acids, Vitamin E, Ginkgo Biloba and Ginseng can also increase these side effects.
It’s also sensible to mention a recent dermal filler treatment before undergoing any laser, chemical peel or other dermal process as this may cause an inflammatory response.
How many treatments will I need?
ExpandDermal fillers are one-off treatments which have an instant effect but this will start to fade within 6-18 months.
Further appointments can then be scheduled if you wish to maintain the impact.