Everything You Need to Know About Dermal Fillers

More and more people are getting dermal fillers these days. With clinics constantly popping up, and the vast amount of information online about dermal fillers, it’s important that we all understand what dermal fillers is, as well as it’s pros and cons. Within this article, we will take you through the basics of dermal fillers (what it is, where it comes from), how it is used, what it’s used for and anything else you may need to know. So, let’s start with the basics.

What are Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are made up of hyaluronic acid. The makeup of dermal fillers is water, hyaluronic acid, lidocaine anaesthetic and stabilising molecules. They are used to improve the appearance of lines, correct volume loss or alter proportions. Dermal fillers are not permanent; how long they last depends on the type of filler which was injected and where on the body it was injected.

Things to consider before getting Dermal Fillers

Having dermal fillers done is usually very safe and done by a trained professional. However, it wouldn’t hurt to do some checking before you commit. Here’s a few things to take into consideration before you dive in:

- Check the person doing the dermal fillers is on a register to show they meet the standards of training and skill

- Avoid practitioners who have only completed a short course

- Book a consultation before your procedure

- Ask about the practitioner’s experience and qualifications

- Ask the name of the product which will be used and where it’s made

- Ensure you are made aware of any, and all risks involved

- Ask about any side effect

Risks Involved with Dermal Fillers

With any procedure, there are risks involved. Your practitioner should explain all the risks involved and what you should be aware of before having the treatment.

Risks of injection- Trauma during the procedure is caused by needles passing through the tissue. This includes bleeding, bruising, haematoma, damage to underlying veins, arteries, nerves, salivary glands, lymph nodes, bone, muscle, and other soft tissue structures. In rare cases, this could cause continuous problems with appearance, sensation or function, and may require medical intervention to avoid it becoming permanent. Most injuries heal completely on their own.

Infection- Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can occur post procedure. Infections can cause redness and swelling. If not treated, they can turn into abscesses or biofilms, which can be slower to heal. In rare cases, infection can occur months after the procedure as biofilm reactions. Symptoms include itching and a lumpy or “thick” feeling at or just under the skin. Injections into the lip area could trigger cold sores (Herpes infections) which may require treatment. In some cases, medical intervention is required to treat the problems.

Reactions- These rarely occur, however, they can include immediate swelling, and, in extremely rare cases, anaphylaxis. There can be delayed reactions to the skin. These can result in nodules, lumps or bumps or, very rarely, sterile abscesses. These can occur soon after treatment, or months after. The chance of a reaction has been reported to be 0.5%, or 1 in 200.

What’s Normal After Getting Dermal Fillers

Swelling, slightly red and sore areas are normal after you have the treatment. It usually settles down in a few days. Your practitioner should inform you of the aftercare process to ensure the best results and easiest recovery. It is recommended that you do not wear any makeup, and avoid coffee, alcohol, and the sun during this time.

Why Are Dermal Fillers Temporary? What Can Affect the Longevity of Dermal Fillers?

The longevity of dermal fillers differs from person to person. There are multiple reasons for this, which you should be made aware of by your practitioner before your treatment. Here are a few examples of things which may affect the longevity of your dermal fillers:

- Metabolism: dermal fillers are often made from naturally occurring enzymes, such as hyaluronic acid, which the body metabolises. As everyone has a different metabolic rate, the speed at which they are metabolised will be different for each person

- The area in which it is injected: dermal fillers will break down faster in areas where there is more movement, eg.the lips and forehead.

- Smoking

- How much filler is injected