Dermal Fillers - 8 Things You Need to Know
Dermal fillers are one of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments available, used to restore volume and decrease wrinkles. Dermal fillers are for those who are looking for treatments to smooth smile lines and crow’s feet and plump up their lips, cheeks, and hands. If you are considering dermal fillers – here are 8 things you need to know.
The Basics
Dermal fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, which is a type of sugar (polysaccharide) found in the skin and cartilage naturally. Hyaluronic acid is hydrophilic gel, this means it is able to combine with water and swell. This is what causes the smoothing and filling effect when injected into the skin.
Dermal fillers may be confused with Botox. Both are injectables used for non-surgical anti-aging effects, however the two are not the same. Botox is a neurotoxin which is used to immobilise over-active muscles of facial expression to reduce the appearance of unwanted facial wrinkles. Fillers as the name suggests – ‘fill’, to restore volume and fill wrinkles.
Different Types of Dermal Fillers
The most popular dermal fillers used are made of hyaluronic acid. Restylane® and Juvéderm® are the most common fillers used by medical professionals. Different hyaluronic acid fillers have various characteristics. These may include, particle size, cross-linking and ingredients, which will deliver varying results. Other fillers may include poly-L-lactic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite and collagen. These alternative fillers are selectively used.
Fillers with larger particle sizes have the ability to restore volume in areas that have deflated during the ageing process, such as in the mid face and cheek areas. Products with smaller particle sizes are used for correcting plumping lips, fine lines and disguising dark furrows beneath the eyes.
How Long do Dermal Fillers Last?
The rejuvenating effects of fillers can last between nine months and up to two years, depending on the location and type of filler used. Dermal fillers are not permanent because hyaluronic acid fillers get broken down by the body. If you are satisfied by the way you look after treatment, you may want to consider having repeat treatments done to maintain the improvements when the effects of the fillers begin to fade.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers are Reversible
If you are not completely satisfied with the results of your filler treatment you can have it adjusted. The amazing thing about hyaluronic acid fillers is that it can be dissolved using a specialised enzyme called Hyaluronidase. If more volume is needed, additional filler can be used for balance. Interestingly, the hyaluronic acid continues to bind with water in the skin in the 24 hours or so after injecting it into the skin, maximising the effect. Usually the full effect of your filler treatment is seen within two weeks, by which time you can properly assess the full effects and satisfaction with the treatment.
Dermal Fillers for Face and Hands
Volume loss occurs on all anatomical ‘levels’ in the face with ageing. The facial bones atrophy (shrink), the fat pads sag under the influence of gravity and the skin looses its elasticity and hydration. Fillers work by replacing this lost volume to lift and fill deflated areas and decrease wrinkles. Dermal fillers are FDA approved for use in correcting moderate to severe facial wrinkles and skin folds, for lip and cheek augmentation. The ageing process is also evident in volume loss in the hands and dermal fillers may be used to fill and rejuvenate ageing hands.
Dermal Fillers and the Potential Risks
The procedure of having dermal fillers done must be done by a highly skilled and trained professional, as dermal fillers have potential risks. These include infection, skin discolouration and lumps or granulomas. More serious side effects are rare but they can occur and may include; scarring, blurred vision and partial vision loss, if the dermal filler is inadvertently injected into a blood vessel. These risks should be throughly discussed with you before the procedure begins.
When to Postpone the Procedure
There are a number of reasons to postpone having fillers. The procedure should not be done whilst being pregnant or breastfeeding. It is not recommended for those younger than 21. If you are using aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories or blood thinners (natural or prescription), it is not advised to have the procedure done. Avoid this procedure if you have a history of excessive scarring or pigmentation. The treatment should be postponed if you have an infection (sinus, tooth infection or skin break-out in the facial area).
Dermal Fillers Procedure
Your medical practitioner will analyse your features and take medical photographs of the area to be treated. Then the areas of treatment will be strategically marked and your skin will be cleansed. The procedure usually takes 30-45 minutes to complete. Most dermal fillers contain local anesthetic to reduce discomfort, but your medical practitioner may use a topical anesthetic or an injectable anesthetic to numb the face to ensure the procedure is painless. An ultra fine needle or thin blunt canula is used to place the filler in the exact anatomical position to achieve the desired volume filling or smoothing effect. Each injection only takes a few moments per site. Occasional massaging of the face will be done to make sure the product is evenly distributed.
There is usually some swelling and sometimes bruising, redness or sensitivity after treatment. You can continue with your daily routine albeit behind shades to hide the swelling and redness. But you should avoid strenuous exercise, excessive sun exposure and alcohol for 24 hours after treatment.
At World of Faces we want your skin look radiant and flawless. We have a team of doctors and medical professionals who are ready to assist with your skin rejuvenation and aesthetic requirements. Our practice is headed up by Dr. Gys De Necker and managed by medical aesthetic therapist, Sindi Magwaza. Book an appointment today for dermal fillers and love the skin you're in.
