At our Slough clinic, we offer dermal fillers, which are a popular injectable cosmetic treatment. They are designed to enhance facial features and restore volume to older or damaged skin. When carried out by a qualified practitioner, dermal fillers are a safe non-surgical procedure with minimal recovery time.
However, if you are considering dermal fillers for the first time, it’s likely that you will have a few questions. Here are the answers to some of the most common queries to help you make a well-informed decision about your treatment.
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable gel-like substances that are designed to add volume to the face and lips, smooth wrinkles, and enhance features such as the cheeks and jawline. The fillers are typically formulated from hyaluronic acid, which is a substance that is naturally found in the skin and helps it to retain moisture and elasticity.
When carried out by experienced aestheticians using high quality materials, dermal fillers provide very natural looking results that are safe and effective.
What areas can be treated with dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers can be used to subtly recontour or improve the appearance of several areas of the face, including the following:
- Lips: add volume and definition, or correct asymmetry for a natural and youthful look.
- Cheeks: restore volume to sunken cheeks and add subtle contours
- Facial lines and folds: diminish lines around the mouth and nose, such as marionette lines, smile lines, and nasolabial folds.
- Jawline and chin: create a more defined profile
- Undereyes: correct hollows or dark circles under the eyes
How long do dermal fillers last?
Dermal fillers are not designed to be permanent, and the longevity of the results will depend on several factors. These include the type of filler that has been used; the area that has been treated; and the individual characteristics of the patient. On average, most fillers will last between six to 18 months and then the results will gradually diminish.
It is possible to have follow up treatments to maintain the effect of the fillers, or make any adjustments as required.
Is the procedure uncomfortable?
Most people report only minor discomfort during the procedure, such as a slight pinch or pressure. The practitioner will usually apply a numbing cream to the treatment area to reduce any pain.
How long is the recovery time?
It’s possible to return to most normal activities straight away, although you might be advised to avoid strenuous exercise and extreme heat for 24-48 hours.
What about side effects?
When carried out by qualified practitioners using quality medically approved treatments, dermal fillers should not have any serious side effects. However, like all cosmetic treatments, you may have normal reactions such as mild swelling, bruising, and redness, which will usually subside within a few days.
In rare cases, more serious complications may occur, such as allergic reactions, lumps, or filler migrations. This is why it’s very important to choose a reputable cosmetic clinic, who will be transparent about the products they use, and the experience and qualifications of their staff. Look for reviews from previous clients, and ask friends for recommendations.
Are dermal fillers suitable for everyone?
In general, most people can safely have dermal fillers. However, they should not be carried out on women who are pregnant or breastfeeding; and people who have skin infections, certain autoimmune disorders; or a history of allergies to the filler ingredients.
It’s important to understand the benefits and risks of dermal fillers, and be clear about the results you can expect before going ahead with a treatment. For the majority of people, fillers are an excellent way to enhance their natural beauty and boost confidence.
