Dermal Fillers: What They Are and What to Expect?

Dermal fillers are a non-surgical aesthetic treatment that can add volume to different areas of the face. They can smooth lines, enhance facial contours, and restore a fuller appearance. Most dermal fillers use hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body.

What are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances a qualified doctor injects beneath the skin. They are designed to restore lost volume, smooth out wrinkles and lines, and improve facial contours. The most common type of dermal filler is made from hyaluronic acid, a sugar molecule that helps skin stay hydrated and plump.

Dermal fillers can address concerns like lines around the mouth and nose, thin lips, and hollow areas under the eyes or in the cheeks. They can also define the jawline or chin. However, they cannot change skin texture, remove excess skin, or correct very severe sagging, which might require a surgical approach. This article does not cover surgical options.

Who is it suitable for?

Dermal fillers are generally suitable for adults who want to address signs of aging or enhance certain facial features. A good candidate has realistic expectations about the results. During a consultation, a qualified doctor will discuss your medical history and assess your skin to decide if dermal fillers are right for you.

There are situations when a doctor would advise against treatment. You should not have dermal fillers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. People with certain autoimmune diseases, active skin infections, or allergies to filler ingredients are also not suitable candidates. It is important to tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and any medicines you are taking.

How does the treatment work?

The Consultation

Before any treatment, you will have a consultation with a qualified doctor. You will discuss your aesthetic goals and review your medical history. The doctor will examine your face and explain the treatment process, including what results you can expect and any possible risks. This is when you can ask questions and address any concerns. The doctor will also check for any contraindications, which are medical reasons not to have the treatment.

The Appointment

On the day of the treatment, the doctor first cleans the area to be treated. They may apply a topical anesthetic, which is a numbing cream, to make the process more comfortable. The doctor then carefully injects the dermal filler into specific areas using a fine needle or a cannula. A cannula is a blunt tube that can be safer in some areas than a sharp needle. The doctor may gently massage the injection site to ensure the filler is evenly distributed. The whole process is usually quick.

After the Appointment

Immediately after the treatment, you may notice some redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. These effects are usually mild and go away on their own. The doctor will give you aftercare instructions, which are guidelines on what to do and what to avoid in the days after your treatment. This might include avoiding strenuous exercise, excessive heat, and certain medications for a short time. Following these instructions helps ensure proper healing and good results.

How long do the results last?

The results from dermal filler treatments are temporary. How long they last depends on several factors, including the type of filler used, the area treated, your metabolism, and your lifestyle. For most hyaluronic acid fillers, the effects typically last for several months.

Over time, your body naturally breaks down the filler material. When you notice the effects starting to fade, you can discuss a top-up session with your doctor. This can help maintain your desired appearance. Your doctor will advise on the best timing for any follow-up treatments.

What are the risks and limits?

Like all medical procedures, dermal filler treatments carry some risks, though serious complications are rare. Common side effects include temporary swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness at the injection site. Sometimes, small firm lumps called nodules can form under the skin, or there might be some asymmetry, meaning one side looks different from the other.

More serious, but rare, risks include infection, an allergic reaction, or filler migration, where the filler moves away from where it was placed. A very rare but urgent complication is vascular occlusion. This happens when filler accidentally blocks a blood vessel, which needs immediate medical care to prevent serious problems. Signs of vascular occlusion include severe pain, changes in skin color (like a pale or mottled appearance), and coolness in the treated area. If you notice any of these warning signs, you must contact your clinic or doctor the same day.

The results can vary greatly from person to person. Factors like skin type, age, and lifestyle all play a part. It is important to have a clear understanding of what dermal fillers can and cannot achieve before you proceed.

Frequently asked questions

Is the treatment painful?

Most people find dermal filler injections tolerable. The doctor may use a topical anesthetic to numb the skin before the injections. Many fillers also contain a local anesthetic to reduce discomfort during the procedure.

How soon can I see results?

You can often see an immediate improvement in volume and the smoothing of lines after a dermal filler treatment. However, some initial swelling may mask the final result, which becomes clearer once the swelling settles down.

Can dermal fillers be removed?

Yes, hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers can be dissolved. A qualified doctor can inject an enzyme called hyaluronidase, which breaks down the hyaluronic acid, allowing the body to absorb it. This can be done if you are not happy with the results or if there is a complication.

What is the downtime after dermal filler treatment?

Downtime refers to the time you need before you can return to your normal activities. For dermal fillers, downtime is usually minimal. You might have some swelling or bruising for a few days, but most people can go back to their daily routine shortly after the treatment.

Can dermal fillers help with deep wrinkles?

Dermal fillers are effective at softening deep wrinkles and folds by adding volume beneath them. While they can improve the appearance of deep lines, they may not remove them completely, especially very deep or etched-in wrinkles. Your doctor can advise on the best approach for your specific concerns.