Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are gel substances that can be injected into the skin with the purpose of restoring lost volume, to soften and fill lines and folds, contour the cheeks and jawline and rejuvenate and augment the lips. Ideal for anyone who wants to look fresher and younger without the need for cosmetic surgery.
The dermal fillers used at The Pele Clinic are made up of Hyaluronic acid which is a naturally occurring substance found within our skin and connective tissue. The function of Hyaluronic acid is to keep skin smooth and healthy by retaining water. These fillers are biocompatible and as a result non allergenic and low risk when used as a filler agent.
Dermal fillers are very hydrophilic (they hold onto a lot of water) and although they break down over time when injected into the skin they are able to maintain their volume and shape due to their high water content. The longevity of dermal fillers varies.
As we age intrinsic factors such as a loss of subcutaneous fat, change in the structure of bones, gravity and loss of elastin and collagen can result in deep lines, saggy skin and areas of hollowing over the face. This combined with external factors such as sun damage and dynamic wrinkles can further cause changes in the once full and supple face.
Dermal fillers can thus be used to restore this lost volume, contour the shape of the face and enhance facial features naturally.
Dermal fillers are very versatile and are used to treat a number of areas. These include but are not limited to:
Lip augmentation, definition and reduction of lines around the lip.
Static superficial to deep lines around the face including nasolabial folds and marionette lines. Deeper injections to maintain the structure and support beneath these lines increases the longevity of the filler
Restoration of lost volume in the cheeks, relieving hollowness and loss of smooth contours.
Cheek enhancement
Hand rejuvenation using filler
The Pele Clinic is committed to maintaining a natural appearance whilst maintaining facial harmony.
FAQ’s
+ What does the treatment involve?
Prior to any treatment with dermal fillers a full consultation is required. This will include full clinical photography, skin assessment and review to assess your areas of concern, expectations and determine the need for any other complementary treatments. A tailored treatment plan will be devised with the aim to provide the best possible results and a natural harmonious look.
Treatment with dermal fillers often involves some discomfort so numbing cream will be offered prior to treatment. All dermal filler injections used at The Pele Clinic contain local anaesthetic which further reduces the discomfort.
The procedure takes around 30 minutes or longer if multiple areas are treated. This is to ensure an aesthetically pleasing result and accuracy of injection. The treatment itself involves the injection of the gel like fluid through small needles into the areas of concern, with different techniques to disperse the filler in a smooth and uniform way.
The effect is immediate but some patients will notice increased swelling for 24-48hours so the true effect may not be noticeable until then. It may take to 3-4 weeks for the dermal filler to stabilize and fully settle into the skin. A follow-up consultation at this time is recommended to assess the results and determine the next phase of treatment.
+ How long does the treatment last?
The dermal fillers used at The Pele Clinic generally last 6-18 months depending on the area treated and the amount used.
+ What happens after my treatment?
Following treatment with dermal fillers normal activities can be resumed. You will be provided with full aftercare instructions. There are some general precautions that should be taken to reduce the risks of side effects and to obtain the best possible results:
Ice/cool compress can be applied to reduce discomfort, swelling and bruising
Gentle massage to the area if advised to do so
Do not do strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours
Avoid any heat inducing activities for 24 hours post treatment; such as saunas and hot showers
Avoid any medications containing NSAIDs and aspirin for the week prior and week following a treatment unless medically necessary and after discussion with our aesthetic practitioner.
+ Are there any risks with Dermal Fillers?
There are minimal side effects associated with dermal fillers. These may include but are not limited to:
Local swelling and asymmetry due to swelling
Redness
Bruising
Lumpiness or irregularity of the filler
Redness, swelling or tenderness in the treated area is a normal result of the injections and will generally disappear within a few days. The initial swelling after a lip enhancement treatment may last longer. Bruising is a common and expected side effect with any dermal filler treatment. It will not affect your end result. Please plan your treatments accordingly (not a few days before an event or holiday). In order to reduce bruising it is important to adhere to the aftercare regime.
Rare complications include allergic reactions, the formation of granulomas, secondary bacterial or viral infections (for example reactivation of the cold sore virus), damage to vascular structures, ischaemia and blindness (very rare).
Dermal filler injections cannot be given to people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have taken a course of prescription acne medication in the last 3 months, have a history of autoimmune diseases or multiple allergies.