What precisely are dermal fillers?
They’re sterile gel like product, most commonly made of hyaluronic acid, which are injected in targeted layers of the skin to fill out and lift those areas. They fall under the class of injectable medical devices. They could plump up lips, define cheekbones, improve symmetry, straighten the facial profile and smooth wrinkles. They really can be the next best thing to a ‘fountain of youth’! However, like any injectable medical procedure, you need to be aware precisely what you’re signing up for. It’s your face, in any case.
How do you differentiate fact from fiction on the subject of dermal filler treatments?
Here are some of the most common myths about dermal filler
Myth 1: Filler Treatments are Very Painful
Not really. Medical professionals use a local anaesthetic to numb the skin and most dermal fillers also contain lidocaine (a local anaesthetic), so there is no much discomfort after the initial injection. Majority of people are able to tolerate the treatment with no issues.
Myth 2: Lip Fillers Expand the Tissues and Cause them to Sag
Inaccurate. The majority of dermal filler are composed of hyaluronic acid, which is naturally found in our skin and other body tissues. Collagen production is also stimulated by infusing the skin with hyaluronic acid following dermal filler injections. The hyaluronic acid strengthens the skin layers even after the filler starts to be broken down by the body (approximately 6 months to 2 years after).
Myth 3: All Fillers and Treatments Are the Same
Not quite. Not all types and brands of dermal filler are the same. What is important is to have a filler with the most appropriate rheology for the area that is treated, in other words how the filler can adjust to pressure forces and distortion in the tissues. For example, the lips are a very mobile area and so dermal filler which is soft, mouldable and elastic, such as Teosyal RHA 3, would provide a natural result while thicker products such as Teosyal Ultra Deep are best suited for filling volume deficiency and creating contour in the cheeks. Collagen stimulating fillers, such as calcium hydroxyapatite (Radiesse), can last longer and create a great firm lift once injected but, unlike hyaluronic acid-based fillers, they cannot be dissolved. Radiesse is great for creating a firm sculpted look in the jawline.
There are hundreds of new filler brands, some of which are very cheap. If you are looking for a cheap deal you get a cheap filler that…well often just looks cheap once injected too! Some of these fillers have not been on the market for a long time and lack a well-established safety record. Also, cheap fillers often lack the properties that create a natural look treatment outcome, such as viscoelasticity which makes the fillers adjust and move seamlessly with every facial expression. Of course, the skill and experience of your practitioner is equally important. Skilled professionals know how to select the most appropriate filler type and injection technique to best meet your treatment goal.
Myth 4: If Something Goes Wrong you Cannot Reverse Dermal Filler Treatments
Incorrect. If you don’t like the way your hyaluronic acid dermal filler appears or are experiencing a complication, your practitioner can use hyaluronidase, which are enzymes that break down hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronidase is a prescription only medication and that is another reason why it is important to choose a medical professional who can prescribe in the UK such as a doctor, dentist, or a nurse prescriber.
Myth 5: There is a long down time and you have to book weeks off to heal and see the final result
Not really. These are non-surgical procedures after all. Although, full integration may take a few weeks, majority of dermal filler procedures produce immediate effects and you can return to most of your usual activities immediately. Some bruising and swelling would be expected though, it is not advisable to book a holiday or any major event within 2-4 weeks following your treatment. Your practitioner will provide you with pre and post treatment instructions to minimise bruising and swelling and aid quick recovery.
Myth 6: You Must Continue Getting Regular Treatments Once You Start
Not quite. Fillers made of hyaluronic acid can last 6-18 months depending on the area treated. Fillers can last even longer than these in some people.
Myth 7: Injections can be Performed by Anybody
No!!!! For the best results, you’ll need a skilled injector who uses legitimate fillers sourced from registered UK pharmacies. Untrained injectors using products bought from the black marker are involved in some of the dermal filler horror stories. When it concerns facial fillers, you need to consider quality of products used, aesthetic vision, clinical skills and safety. Don’t compromise on any of these, as you can’t easily hide the consequences.
Myth 8: Botox and Fillers are the same things
Not at all. There is a clear distinction between Botox and dermal fillers. Botox is a medication that works by relaxing the muscles in your face that make your skin crease and wrinkle. Dermal fillers are medical, jell-like substance that fills wrinkles, create volume, improve tissue sagging, and sculpt facial areas to create better symmetry and definition.
Book a free consultation with Aesthetics By Silvie to find out if dermal filler treatment is right for you.