DERMAL FILLER

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. 

 When Treatment May Not Be Suitable

There are certain situations where dermal filler treatment may not be appropriate, such as:

• Pregnancy, IVF, or Breastfeeding
• Active Skin Conditions: E.g., infections or diseases in the treatment area
• Medical Conditions: Poorly controlled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, blood clotting issues, cancer, or immunocompromised states

If you have any of these conditions, Dr. Alya will discuss alternative options or timelines for treatment.

Temporary Restrictions
In some cases, treatment may be delayed to allow for preparation or recovery:

• Infections: Minor infections may require 7-10 days to heal before treatment.
• Cold Sores: Require 5 days of antiviral treatment and a waiting period before proceeding.
• Medications: Some medications, like aspirin, warfarin, or NSAIDs, may need to be paused for 5 days unless prescribed for a condition. If you’ve taken Ro-Accutane (isotretinoin), a 6-month waiting period is required.
• Important Events: It’s best to avoid treatment within two weeks of major social engagements to allow time for any side effects to resolve.

Contraindications
Treatment is not advised if you:

• Are allergic to lidocaine or dermal fillers
• Have had recent facial surgery or dermal filler treatment
• Have permanent lip fillers

At Linora Aesthetics, your safety is our top priority. To ensure the best results and minimize risks, it’s essential to share your complete medical history, including:

• Current and recent medications
• Allergies
• Recent health concerns addressed by your GP or hospital

If Dr. Alya determines that a procedure is unsafe for you, she will inform you during the consultation. In such cases, the consultation will conclude without treatment. 

It is vital to ensure that all information provided is read and understood before your dermal filler treatment. Please find the Pre and Post-procedure treatment here.

1.  Pain. There should be minimal pain as most fillers have lidocaine, a numbing cream is applied and if done by a trained professional. If the pain is beyond expectation, contact Dr Alya as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms.
2. Bruising. They can be small or large, but they usually resolve within 2 weeks.
3. Redness. It is normal for the skin to be erythematous/ red after it is pricked by a needle, and it usually self-resolves. However, if it persists and feels warm/hot, please contact Dr Alya to discuss your symptoms.
4. Swelling. There will be swelling post-treatment, especially on the second day. However, they are self-limiting.
5. Infection. The risk of infection should be minimal as Dr ALya has very strong hygiene ethics and IPC in place. She performs her art in an as sterile environment as possible.
6. Lumps. This happens due to misplacement or migration of the filler.
7. Vascular Occlusion. This is a very rare side-effect/complication, however, a serious one. This causes the blood flow to reduce in the area affected, in turn causing less oxygen to reach the tissues and ischaemia to follow. It can cause tissue loss, infection and/or scarring. The symptoms are severe pain, change in colour in the area and poor capillary refill. If this occurs, the filler needs to be dissolved as soon as possible.*
8. Anaphylaxis.  This is a serious allergic reaction to either lidocaine or the filler used, which can cause shortness of breath, voice hoarseness, wheezing, cough, swelling of the tongue, eyelids and lips, nausea and vomiting. This is a medical emergency*

*Dr Alya always prioritises safety and has an emergency kit to handle unexpected side effects.