Dermal Filler
TREATMENT TIME
30 - 60 minutes
DURATION OF EFFECT
6 - 18 months
EFFECT VISIBLE
Immediately
SESSIONS REQUIRED
Individually assessed
What is Dermal filler
Dermal filler treatments are used to enhance facial features and to treat age related fine lines, deeper folds and to restore volume loss. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule within the skin that gives plumpness and volume to the skin. This molecule forms the basis of the newest and now most widely used dermal fillers that can be dissolved with an enzyme if needed, and therefore this type of dermal filler is reversible. It presents as a gel like substance, and because it is a naturally occurring molecule skin irritation and allergic reactions are minimal. Areas used to contour and shape the face include the chin, cheeks, temples, jawline, tear troughs and lips. Dermal fillers can also address deeper lines like smoker’s lines, marionette lines, nasolabial folds, and forehead wrinkles. The choice of filler prescribed depends on each individual, their personal anatomy and treatment goals.
Onset of Action and Treatment Duration
The volumizing effect of dermal fillers are visible immediately after injection. It does still undergo a process of settling into your own tissues and the result is enhanced over the next month. A treatment typically lasts 12 – 18 months, sometimes up to 24 months. Your body will slowly degrade the dermal filler with endogenous enzymatic action, and it may not always be necessary to inject more filler after this time, your features will be reassessed before each treatment.
Pre-procedure Preparation
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Avoid dental procedures, teeth whitening and teeth cleaning two weeks before the procedure.
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One week before to your treatment avoid over the counter medications that can thin the blood and subsequently increase your risk for bruising. These include Aspirin, Brufen, Voltaren and other anti-inflammatory medications. Omega 3 fatty acids, Ginko Biloba, St John’s Wort, and Arnica also thin the blood and increase this side effect. Panado is a good alternative.
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Please notify the doctor if you are taking prescription blood thinning medications.
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Avoid topical retinoids 3 days before the treatment and avoid waxing, plucking and bleaching.
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This procedure can trigger cold sores, inform the doctor if you are prone to cold sores, prophylaxis can be prescribed 1-2 days before the treatment.
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Avoid alcohol 24 hours before and after treatment.
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Arrive without makeup the day of your treatment.
Post-procedure Care
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Drink enough water on the day of your treatment.
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Avoid unsterile make up or products for 24hours after.
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For lip treatments avoid hot beverages for 2hours after.
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Avoid strenuous exercise.
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Avoid touching or massaging the treated area unless specifically instructed to do so.
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If swelling occurs ice the treated area for 15minutes every hour.
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Mild common bruising can be treated with topical Arnica, Voltaren gel or Traumeel.
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Avoid long haul flights for at least one week after the treatment as this will increase your post procedure swelling.
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For two weeks after the procedure avoid the following: facials, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, facial laser, threading, waxing, plucking dental procedures, teeth cleaning and teeth whitening. Also avoid surgery or vaccinations for two weeks after the procedure.
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A follow-up appointment one month after treatment is advised.
Serious side effects to be reviewed as soon as you become aware of them: pain out of the ordinary at the injection site, skin mottling, blistering or permanent blanching needs prompt review
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