DERMAL FILLER

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin for acne scars, ageing skin, and volume loss and enhance the facial contours. There are multiple types of dermal fillers, but we will concentrate on Hyaluronic Acid dermal fillers. Dermal filler injections come in preloaded syringes containing a clear-gel substance, which consists of hyaluronic acid and possibly lidocaine. Most HA fillers are infused with lidocaine (an anaesthetic agent) to help minimize discomfort during and after the treatment. Reduction of the pain at the injection site is achievable through topical anaesthetics and ice packs as well. They are injected with a small needle, or a cannula or, in some cases, both techniques could be combined.

Hyaluronic acid is a group of sugar molecules called polysaccharides that retains moisture and it is capable of binding over one thousand times its weight in water. One of the main characteristics of hyaluronic acid is that it binds water like a sponge, creates volume, and provides structural support.  It is naturally found in many areas of the human body, including the skin, eyes, connective tissue, and synovial fluid of the joints and it helps to keep skin plump and hydrated and has a function in wound repair. Hyaluronic acid fillers can classify animal derived which comes from rooster comb and non-animal derived which occurs through the bio-fermentation of a bacteria called Streptococcus.

Dermal fillers, contain HA- a natural compound that helps the production of collagen and elastin, and last between 8 to 18 months. Besides the type of dermal filler which is used, several factors can affect the longevity of other dermal filler treatments. These factors include the placement of the dermal filler, the amount injected, and the speed at which, the body is metabolising the dermal filler. Doing a touch-up dermal filler treatment around the midpoint of the expected duration of the filler can be highly beneficial since it helps the results to be sustained much longer 

The amount of dermal filler for the face depends on the areas needing the lift and on the desired outcome. A syringe contains 1 mL of HA and facial filler usually requires more than one syringe to achieve the outcome desired. 

The amount of filler for the lip is usually minimal. However, it can vary depending on the result we are trying to achieve. 0.5ml up to 1ml of lip filler is usually sufficient for a more natural look.

Discussing your expectations with Dr Alya is vital, as she will advise you on the best method and areas needing treatment. This, in turn, will provide you with the best results. 

It is important, to be honest about your past medical history, current and recent medications, allergies and recent concerns regarding your health for which you went to your GP and/or the Hospital.

There may be instances where treatment is not appropriate such as Pregnancy, IVF and breastfeeding. Dermal filler treatments are not advised in patients with active skin disease and certain poorly controlled medical conditions (Diabetes, autoimmune disorders, blood disorders, blood clotting disorder, cancer and/or immunocompromised).

There could be situations where treatment may not be suitable immediately. However, it could be possible if certain steps were taken and time has passed. For example, infection (depending on the site and severity- may take 7-10 days to resolve) and Cold sores- may require treatment for 5 days and may need waiting.  Medication- some may need stopping 5 days before treatment (Aspirin, warfarin, NSAID) unless prescribed for a condition, or some may need at least 6 months before filler can be injected (Ro-Accutane or isotretinoin). If the patient has an important event to attend within two weeks, it is inadvisable to undergo the treatment.

Treatment would be contraindicated in you are allergic to lidocaine or dermal fillers had recent facial surgery or dermal filler treatment and have permanent lip filler.

It is important to ensure that you have no social engagement or important event for a period of 2 weeks after the treatment. There may be side effects which take longer to resolve and may affect your important events.

IF DR ALYA FEELS IT IS UNSAFE TO PERFORM A PROCEDURE, SHE WILL INFORM YOU OF HER DECISION; AND THE CONSULTATION WILL BE CONCLUDED WITHOUT TREATMENT.