Non-Surgical Procedures
Dermal Fillers
The information provided is generalised and comprehensive patient-specific advice can only be given at individual Consultation.
Dermal Fillers /Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers
As part of the aging process important structural components of the skin such as collagen and elastin fibres and Hyaluronic acid (HA)- a naturally occurring sugar in the skin are gradually reduced. The skin of the face loses its elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles begin to appear and youthful facial volume is lost.
Dermal fillers are an effective, quick and subtle non surgical method of reducing some of these facial lines and wrinkles, with minimal recovery time.
Fillers can be used to restore lost volume to the face and can add structure. The lips can be increased in volume and definition, and facial bone structure such as the chin and cheek areas can be augmented/ enhanced.
Fillers can in addition be used in conjunction with Botulinum Toxin Facial Rejuvenation or cosmetic surgery procedures. Very deep lines or skin folds and advanced signs of facial aging may be more appropriately addressed with surgical treatment in order to achieve the best results.
What types of Dermal Filler are used?
There are many different types of filler currently available. Mr Fallahdar will only use non-permanent Hyaluronic Acid (HA) synthetic based fillers that have a clinically proven safety track record and which have given consistently reliable and predictable long term results with the least side effects. When injected, the synthetic HA (manufactured from non-animal sources), which is based on a naturally occurring sugar in the skin, binds water and therefore hydrates, restores volume and smoothes existing lines and wrinkles. Dermal fillers can in addition be used to enhance facial features such as the lips for a natural looking result.
Am I a suitable candidate for filler treatment?
You may be a suitable candidate for HA dermal filler treatment if you are generally fit and well with lines and wrinkles on your face that are of concern and you are looking for a minimally invasive, non permanent, rapid, natural looking improvement. HA dermal filler is also used for restoring fullness and definition to the lips and for adding structure to certain parts of the face such as the cheekbone and chin areas.
What areas are commonly treated with HA dermal Fillers?
The most commonly treated areas include:
- Nasolabial fold- the fold of skin running from the lower part of the nose to the corner of the mouth
- Lines around the mouth otherwise known as smokers/lipstick lines
- Lines around the corner of the mouth that can create a sad and tired appearance
- The lips can be augmented using small amounts of HA dermal filler for a natural looking increase in youthful volume and definition
- Lines around the lower eyelid area
Although fillers may be used on the forehead and glabellar region (between the eyebrows), Botulinum Toxin Facial Rejuvenation may be a more suitable treatment for these area.
What happens during Filler Treatment?
Treatment is undertaken as an outpatient procedure. The areas to be treated will have been fully discussed, agreed upon and pre-planned so that the treatment itself is as quick and smooth running as possible. Treatment on the face commonly takes approximately 15-30 minutes. Although ultra fine needles are used to administer the filler, local anaesthetic injection or gel can be used prior to the filler injection to lessen discomfort.
HA dermal filler is carefully into the planned areas. The smoothing and ‘plumping out’ effect of treatment will be instant but the final result will usually be more evident once the swelling has settled after 1-2 days.
Is Filler Treatment Painful?
There is usually some mild to moderate stinging and discomfort associated with filler treatment, the degree of which varies amongst individuals. Although ultra fine needles are used to administer the filler, local anaesthetic injection or gel can be used prior to the filler injection to lessen discomfort.
When can I return to normal activity/ work?
In theory you will be fit to return to normal activity immediately following the procedure. However, some degree of redness and swelling should be expected and although concealer make up can be used, some patients, particularly after injection with LA prefer to take the rest of the afternoon off from work.
How do I prepare for Filler Treatment?
In order to prevent excessive bleeding and bruising, Aspirin and all NSAIDs should be avoided for 2 weeks before the operation.
Treatment should also be postponed in active herpes simplex infection such as cold sores around the lip area until they are fully healed.
What should I do after Filler Treatment?
You may experience a mild burning sensation immediately after treatment and some redness which usually settles within a few hours. The redness can be camouflaged with a good quality concealer make up. It is advisable to remain in an upright position for a few hours after the procedure in order to minimise swelling. You should avoid all forms of facial massage, spa facials, face peels, sunbathing and sun beds for at least 2 weeks following treatment.
The final results of treatment are most evident 1-2 days after the procedure when the swelling has subsided. It is advisable not to arrange treatment just before an important social event (leave at least 1-2 weeks to allow any swelling and bruising to settle).
How long will the results last following Filler Treatment?
The results may last approximately 3 months. In some cases the results may last between 3-6 months after which it is gradually and safely reabsorbed by the body. A further treatment is then recommended in order to maintain the favourable results.
What are the Risks and Complications associated with Filler Treatment?
HA dermal filler is a widely used with an excellent safety track record and there are very few risks in healthy individuals.
-Mild swelling and bruising at the injection site- This is usually mild however the degree varies and in some patients it will be more marked. Swelling usually resolves within a couple of days after the injection into the skin of the face or after one week following injection into the lips.
Redness and possible bruising- Use of cold compresses can help reduce this
Allergic reaction and loss of limited area of the skin–This is extremely rare
Will I look over treated following Filler Treatment?
Mr Fallahdar is committed to achieving the most natural looking results in all the cosmetic procedures he undertakes. He uses only non permanent HA fillers that have demonstrated outstanding long term results. Careful choice of the most appropriate products and skilful, experienced technique ensure optimal results are achieved. Following your treatment you should still very much look like yourself but appear fresher, rejuvenated and more youthful.
What are the alternatives to Filler Treatment?
During your personalised Consultation Mr Fallahdar will recommend the most suitable type of treatment for your particular needs and concerns. There are a variety of alternative non surgical treatments that can be used depending upon the area to be treated and the type of result that is sought.
Botulinum Toxin Facial Rejuvenation is a highly effective treatment for facial lines caused by muscle activity such as frown lines and crows feet/ laughter lines.
Autologous Fat Injection can also be used for facial rejuvenation and to add volume and definition to the face.