Dermal Fillers
Dermal filler injections are used to create volume within the skin, and they are typically comprised of hylauronic acid (also known as hyaluronan) which is also naturally produced within the body.
What are Dermal Filler Injections?
While dermal fillers are frequently associated with lip enhancement, they might be used for several reasons, such as;
Dermal filler injections might also be called ‘cosmetic injections,’ ‘injectables,’ ‘HA fillers,’ or ‘filler;’ and treatment might be referred to as ‘getting your lips done.’
There are several types of dermal fillers, some which contain different ingredients, and which may or may not contain anaesthetic medicines. Different types of dermal fillers achieve varying levels of flexibility – some are meant for soft, malleable areas, like the lips, while others are much harder and used to replicate the bone structure. Not all dermal fillers are alike, even if they all contain hyaluronic acid. At Derma Reading, we use Juvéderm® fillers.
Most dermal fillers are designed to have a temporary effect before they are absorbed back into the body, although there are some types of permanent dermal fillers that are no longer widely used. Permanent dermal fillers have historically been known to result in complications that are very difficult to treat, which is why ethical practitioners do not offer them.
Although representations in the media may make it seem that concerns about appearance are superficial, stem from vanity, and only affect women, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Both men and women can be negatively impacted by appearance, and these negative effects can be far-reaching, interfering with their daily lives in more ways than simply when they’re looking in the mirror.
Contrary to their comedic portrayal in film and television, as well as some of the more ‘extreme’ examples in the media, the goal of dermal filler injections is not to leave a person looking cartoonish or artificial, but instead to create a natural-looking enhancement or to restore a refreshed, youthful appearance.
Because the treatment is considered ‘cosmetic’ by most people, it is far less stigmatised than in the past, and may even be glamorised by some. It’s therefore important to note that in the UK, loopholes in regulation has allowed unscrupulous practices to be advertised and performed by unethical or unqualified practitioners.
Presently, anyone can purchase dermal fillers online and inject them, whether or not they have any qualifications, and the results can be devastating, or even cause life-altering complications, like blindness. Dermal filler injections may be non-surgical, but that does not mean they are non-medical; they should therefore only ever be administered by a medical expert, in a sterile clinical setting.
While dermal filler injections can have a significant positive impact on a person’s self-confidence, they are not suitable for everyone. This is why before undergoing any treatment, it is essential to first have a consultation with the dermatologist, whose expertise in the medical treatment of the skin can best determine whether it will be suitable and effective; and who is best positioned to perform the treatment safely for ideal outcomes.
What is the Benefit of Dermal Filler Injections?
Depending on what dermal filler is being used to treat, the benefits are varied, but in almost all cases, treatment can help to improve self-confidence while restoring volume.
In contrast to cosmetic creams and beauty treatments that usually focus on the superficial layers of the skin to change the appearance of an issue for a few hours or days; dermal filler injections directly target specific areas to increase volume and are far more effective – usually costing about the same, or sometimes less, than many expensive ‘anti-ageing’ beauty therapies.
Dermal filler injections have minimal downtime and can often be performed in as little as 15 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated. An appointment can often be carried out discreetly during a lunch break.
Depending on the location being treated, the type of filler being used, and an individual’s metabolism, the effects of treatment usually last for 6-12 months
Who are Dermal Filler Injections Suitable For?
Patients wishing to make a subtle enhancement to their features; to minimise the appearance of scarring or wrinkles; or who wish to restore facial volume would be potential candidates to undergo dermal filler injections, however not all patients are medically suitable for treatment, or they may have to wait before they can safely undergo the procedure.
Those who might not be suitable for treatment with dermal filler injections include people;
Whether scarring or the appearance of lines and wrinkles are relatively recent, or they have been present for some time, treatment with Juvéderm® filler injections performed by a dermatologist is an effective solution for many people.
Dermal filler injections may also be combined with other treatments, such as Botox® injections that work to counteract deep creases by limiting muscle movement underneath the skin; or with prescription creams that can help to resurface the skin.
What is the Process of Dermal Filler Injections?
Prior to undergoing dermal filler injections, you shouldn’t have to prepare much, but if you are taking certain medications, or have underlying medical conditions, your dermatologist will advise you of any special considerations prior to your appointment.
It’s best to avoid alcohol and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory tablets (such as ibuprofen) for at least 24 hours before dermal filler injections since they might cause complications like bleeding or bruising. You also shouldn’t do any exfoliating of the skin or undergo hair removal like waxing or threading before treatment.
On the day of the procedure, any makeup will need to be removed from the areas to be treated, and you shouldn’t use concealer directly after having injections, so you may want to keep that in mind when planning for your appointment.
Some people may be uncomfortable or anxious about needles or have a history of reactions like dizziness or fainting when they have previously had injections or IV treatment. If this is the case, it will be helpful to advise the clinic when booking your appointment or to let the dermatologist know beforehand, so that they can make you more comfortable.
To determine whether you are a suitable candidate for treatment with Juvéderm® filler, you will first undergo a consultation with the dermatologist, who will take your medical history and examine the area to be treated. They will also explain all of the potential side-effects, to enable you to decide whether the injections are right for you.
If it is suitable to proceed, the area to be treated will be cleaned with an alcohol wipe, and sometimes the dermatologist might make tiny marks to indicate the injection sites using a sterile pencil. These marks will not be visible after treatment.
The dermatologist, or in some instances, a highly-specialised dermatology nurse will then administer the dermal filler injections in specific doses.
The first of these injections may feel like a sharp scratch and can be a little sore, but they don’t normally require any anaesthetic beforehand, as the fillers often contain numbing agents. If you are particularly sensitive, you can mention this during your booking, and you may be asked to attend earlier so that a topical numbing cream can be applied to take effect before your treatment.
Usually, the patient can leave the clinic straight away after unless they are experiencing dizziness, in which case they may remain in the waiting room until they are feeling better.
The results of dermal filler injections are evident straight away, although they can take 1-2 weeks to fully settle after swelling.
What are the Risks and Complications of Dermal Filler Injections?
While Juvéderm® filler injections administered by a dermatologist are quite safe and effective, it is possible to have some complications, and in most cases, they would be minor – such as;
You may have more or less bruising afterwards than other people who’ve had dermal fillers, or than you’ve previously had after dermal fillers - this can also be influenced by underlying health conditions or medications, or even what you’ve had to eat or drink beforehand.
If you have underlying medical conditions or are regularly taking medications, it is essential that you let your dermatologist know when they take your medical history during the consultation, since they might mean you are more susceptible to certain side effects.
Some people can experience dizziness after injections, and it may be beneficial to rest in the waiting room or have a cup of tea following your treatment until this regulates.
It’s possible to develop what’s called a haematoma, which is a collection of blood underneath the skin either in the tissues or the muscles underneath and presents as a discolouration where the blood has clotted. While a haematoma may cause some swelling, which can be sore, they are harmless and will resolve on their own. You can contact the clinic if you are concerned that you have a haematoma, and the staff will speak to your dermatologist to advise whether it will be beneficial to apply ice in a cloth to the area to reduce any swelling; or to take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory tablet. In the latter instance, they will also advise which tablets to avoid, since some containing ibuprofen may cause an increase of blood flow to the haematoma.
In the expert hands of a dermatologist, complications are rarer, but dermal filler injections can cause very serious complications, such as necrosis or even blindness. These risks are greatly increased when dermal fillers are administered by someone without extensive understanding of facial anatomy and training, or when treatment is performed outside of clinical settings.
What is the Recovery Time and Outcome for Dermal Filler Injections?
If you are suitable for treatment with dermal fillers, and it is the right option for you, the injections usually take about 15 minutes, and any redness at the sites of injection usually disappear within 1-2 hours, although the areas may be swollen or bruised for several days afterwards. It is very important that you follow the appropriate instructions given to you in the days after your treatment.
The final results of the treatment are visible after 2 weeks, and you will need to undergo further treatment to maintain the effects, although each individual will respond differently to dermal filler. Typically, the effects will last between 6-12 months.
Whatever your needs, you can rest assured that Derma will provide the very best care for your skin, with access to the latest research and treatments.
For more information, or to book an appointment with Derma, please call the clinic or contact us via email here.
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