Filler

What is filler?

Filler is just one of several names for this nonsurgical cosmetic procedure. Dermal filler, filler injections, dermal filler injections. We can go on forever. Or at least for another minute.

As we age, our bodies lose collagen. Collagen is an important protein found pretty much everywhere in the body. Your skin, muscles, connective tissue, bones. Even organs such as the kidneys.

Let’s go back to skin for a moment. As our skin loses collagen, it loses volume and elasticity, making it saggy and wrinkly.

Filler is given as an injection just under your skin. It is used to:

• Smooth out your wrinkles
• Bring back that youthful volume to your face
• Make your facial features more symmetrical
• Make your lips and cheeks fuller

In summary, if it's on your face, filler might be able to do something for it. For those of you looking to make your kidneys prettier, there are unfortunately no reputable clinics which do that.

What are the risks?

As with most risks associated with cosmetic procedures, they are much more likely if you choose the wrong clinic!

They include:

• Damage to your skin – scars, redness, bruising, bleeding, swelling, pain
• Lumps and bumps under your skin
• An asymmetrical appearance
• Rashes and itching
• In severe cases, infection which can lead to necrosis (death) of the affected skin

In most cases, these side effects are temporary, but it’s best not to risk it.

Moral of the story: don’t cut costs by picking a dodgy clinic!

It ends up costing more, in terms of both your money and your personal wellbeing.

What to expect

We can split this process into three steps: before the procedure, during the procedure, after the procedure.

Before

You’ll have an appointment with a doctor, such as a dermatologist, who specialise in caring for skin. Together, you will plan your goals for treatment and what type of filler to use. They will ask about your medical history to make sure the procedure will be safe. It is also important to tell them which medications you’re taking, as certain blood thinners and NSAIDs (eg. ibuprofen) may increase your risk of bruising.

They may draw on your face with a pen. If they draw a moustache, run. The aim of this is to mark where the injections will be.

During

Your doctor will inject small amounts of filler under your skin. It might pinch a little, but the majority of people won’t find this particularly painful.

Depending on how you planned your treatment, you might receive injections in a few different areas.

This can last anywhere between a few minutes to an hour.

After

Once the injections are given, your doctor will cleanse your skin. You might receive an ice pack to reduce swelling and pain.

It’s normal to have some discomfort, swelling and bruises after getting filler. This is usually mild and they normally go away after a few days.

Recovery Tips

Follow these tips to recover as quickly as possible:

1. Follow the instructions given by your doctor after your treatment
2. Reduce bruising with Arnica supplements
3. Apply a cold press for 5-10 minutes every hour
4. Sleep upright to reduce facial swelling
5. Don't bend over, strain or exercise vigorously for 24 hours
6. Don't massage your face (unless told otherwise)
7. Avoid exposure to the sun and heat until you've recovered

When do the results start to show?

Many people will see results immediately after the treatment!

But everyone’s different and it depends on several factors, including the type of treatment you got.

How long do the effects last?

Months to years! Depending on the type of filler you get. Ask your doctor just to be sure.

How do I make my Filler last longer?

Ask and you shall receive:

1. Stay well hydrated - track your water intake and fight those wrinkles!
2. Good skin care: daily use of a moisturiser with hyaluronic acid will slow down the rate of Botox breakdown and reduce inflammation
3. Use a high-quality sunscreen to stop sunlight-induced Botox breakdown
4. Eat well - and your skin will reward you