Everything You Need to Know About Dermal Fillers

As we get older, we start to produce less hyaluronic acid naturally, which can lead to a loss of plumpness, elasticity, and unwanted wrinkles. Dermal filler injections restore lost hyaluronic acid, as well as help stimulate your skin to produce more of its own.

Dermal fillers are injected in strategic areas of the face to reshape and volumise the skin and underlying shape.

Don’t be scared by the amounts used in treatment, either. It’s common to use amounts anywhere between 3mls and 10mls, and this is totally normal. Results will be natural-looking and subtle when the right product is placed in the correct places, so don’t be put off.

Whilst an experienced dentist or doctor may be qualified to administer injectable treatments, it’s also wise to seek a practitioner who has excellent knowledge of aesthetics. They should take the time to understand your goals and explain the best course of treatment for you.

It’s also essential that your practitioner makes you aware of any risks involved and understands how to manage complications. They should have the ability to prescribe medication in case it’s needed. A&Es are not prepared to deal with the most severe complications caused by dermal fillers.

Do your research before you take the plunge. A reputable practitioner will be happy to prove their qualifications and will often be registered with an accrediting body, such as the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP). Your practitioner should also be fully insured, another thing they won’t be afraid to show you should you ask to see proof.

Could There Be Any Side Effects?

In the hands of a qualified practitioner, complications are incredibly rare with dermal fillers. However, you should be aware of a few minor side effects that might occur following treatment.

These can include bruising, redness or slight swelling. Extensive bruising is rare, and we can take aids like arnica tablets to make it even more unlikely. I also use a magic cream in the clinic to diminish any bruising that might happen.

Swelling of the face is more likely, as the hyaluronic acid in the filler attracts moisture. This is why I always recommend my patients to have a dermal filler treatment, ideally four weeks, but a minimum of two weeks, before any big event. That way, any potential side effects have plenty of time to wear off.

That said, downtime is minimal – some people go back to work straight after treatment. So you’ll be back to your normal routine in no time.

Very rarely, more serious complications can occur. But a fully-qualified medical aesthetics practitioner will know exactly how to take care of you should anything such as this happen. This is why it’s so vital to know your practitioner and be able to trust them with your safety.

Dermal fillers might seem daunting, especially if it’s your first time having the treatment. But with a qualified, experienced practitioner, you’ll feel like a whole new you!