dermal fillers

Dermal fillers can be used to improve mid and lower face areas. Some of the conditions which can be treated with dermal fillers include:

• Replenishing hollow cheeks or defining cheekbones
• Smoothing out nose to mouth lines
• Improvement to a weak chin and/or defining the jawline
• Making the lips fuller or more even
• Improvement of dark circles/hollow eyes (also referred to as tear troughs)

All treatments will be carried out following a thorough consultation, a treatment plan will be discussed along with the cost involved and an appointment will be booked for treatment allowing time for a suitable cooling off period. 

Since the products are hypoallergenic gels, allergic reactions are extremely rare.

Side effects are uncommon but can occur, and include bruising, tenderness, reddening, and occasionally itching. There is usually a little swelling immediately after treatment but in most cases it is very mild. If any of these do occur they usually settle within a few days. 

Bruising can sometimes be significant and last more than a week, it is best to avoid anti-inflammatories (aspirin, ibuprofen) for at least 7 days before treatment, unless these have been prescribed for a medical indication. 

Alcohol within the previous 24 hours can also increase the risk of bruising. 

Treatments are only carried out after a full medical history has been undertaken.

All treatments will be carried out following a thorough consultation, a treatment plan will be discussed along with the cost involved and an appointment will be booked for treatment allowing time for a suitable cooling off period. 

All of the dermal fillers we use will be Hyaluronic Acid. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance present in the skin and the product itself is considered very safe, when it is has been purchased from a reputable pharmacy or supplier. All of the products we use will be of the highest quality meeting the safety standards required for use in this country. 

The injections may sting and can be slightly painful but many people experience only mild discomfort. Anaesthetic creams or injections are often used. 

The treatment will usually take about 30 minutes to perform and the results appear instantly. You can carry on with your normal life immediately after treatment. The product is broken down slowly by the body and so the results typically last between 6 months and a year, depending on the particular filler used with some fillers lasting considerably longer. After this time you can choose whether to have more treatment to maintain the effect.

• Avoid taking anti-inflammatories (such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen) for 3 days prior to treatment (unless this has been prescribed by your doctor) as this increases the risk of bruising.
• Alcohol, fish oils, St. John’s Wort, Gingko Biloba and Vitamin E should also be avoided for 3 days prior to treatment to lessen the risk of bruising.
• If you are prone to bruising, taking arnica orally for a few days prior to treatment may lessen the risk.
• If you are unwell on the day of your appointment, contact the practitioner to reschedule.
• Avoid sunbeds and tanning for 1 week before and after treatment.
• Ensure your practitioner is informed if there are any changes in your medical history or medication taken before receiving any treatment.
• Lips will not be treated if you have an active coldsore. 

You may not be suitable for treatment if any of the following apply:

• Dermal fillers cannot be given to pregnant or breast-feeding women and is not recommended if you are actively trying to get pregnant or undergoing IVF.
• If you suffer from keloid scarring or have active skin conditions, such as acne or psoriasis.
• If you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune conditions, blood clotting disorders, cancer, immunosuppression (either medical or drug-related).
• If you are suffering from any skin infection in or near the treatment area, including cold sores.
• If you are suffering from any other infection, including dental, throat, ear, chest or sinus infections.
• If you are unwell, including coughs and colds, on the day of treatment.
• If you are taking any medicines which affect bleeding, such as aspirin or warfarin.
• If you have had Roaccutane or isotretinoin in the past 6 months.
• Certain allergies, including lidocaine or bee sting allergy.
• Recent facial surgery or other dermal fillers in the same area.
• Permanent implants, such as silicone implants in the face or pins and plates.

After treatment, most people can resume their normal daily activities. 

Immediately after treatment, there may be some redness, tenderness and swelling at the injection sites. 

Bruising may be obvious immediately after treatment and may be quite pronounced.

Although there is little evidence, many practitioners advise the following:

• Do not apply make-up for 12 hours after treatment to reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid saunas, swimming pools and sunbeds until the initial swelling and redness has settled.
• Try to avoid touching or rubbing the treated area until the following day, as you may affect the results of treatment or cause infection, unless otherwise advised by your treating practitioner.
• Avoid extremes of hot or cold and vigorous exercise until the initial swelling has resolved.
• If swelling persists, you may be advised to apply a cool pad to help remedy this.
• Contact your practitioner if you experience any unwanted side-effects.