- What are dermal fillers?
Dermal Fillers are a very popular injectable treatment to fill folds and wrinkles and re-volumise the mid and lower face. Dermal fillers we use are hyaluronic-acid based. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in every individual and this is what causes us to look plump and youthful when we are young. As the ageing process takes effect your collagen starts to break down which can leave you looking tired. Re- introducing the hyaluronic acid using the dermal filler treatment can plump out deep skin folds.
- How do dermal fillers work?
The basic principle of dermal fillers is the signs of skin ageing is reduced due to the ‘plumping’ effect on the skin. Although slightly different desired effects can be achieved with the use of different fillers, all results achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance in the hands of a competent practitioner.
The technical bit:
The epidermis and the dermis make up the two layers of the skin. The epidermis is the outer layer and functions as a barrier against the environment to protect against the elements and to regulate moisture loss from tissues and cells.
Directly below the epidermis sits the dermis. This contains structural elements of the skin, such as blood vessels, nerves and hair follicles. The dermis contains collagen and this provides the skin with elasticity and strength to support the skin. With age, the epidermis gradually thins providing less protection to the dermis layer. Added to this, production of collagen slows significantly and the existing collagen becomes less effective.
The consequence is an increase in the presence of wrinkles, folds, depressions and other associated signs of ageing. Dermal fillers act as a replenishment for the natural collagen which has been left ineffective through the ageing process and reverses the appearance of line and wrinkles through adding volume and increased hydration.
- Which areas can be treated using dermal fillers?
The common areas that the dermal filler treatment can be applied are: Lips (border and body)
Cheeks (filling and contouring) Tear trough (under eye hollows)
Nose to mouth lines (nasolabial) Mouth to chin lines (Marionette) Down-turned corners of the mouth Chin
Nose Smoker’s lines Hands
- Who will treat me at The well:skin? Is he/she medically qualified and insured?
You will always be treated by Dr Pri who is an experienced medical doctor trained in aesthetics. He has over 15 years’ experience working for the NHS and private practice across the UK. He is qualified from leading aesthetic institutions to carry out basic, advanced and masterclass techniques for facial rejuvenation. He is also fully insured to carry out aesthetic procedures.
- What is my Dermal filler appointment like at The well:skin?
When you initially make the appointment, we will send you some instructions on how to prepare for the appointment. For example, we will ask you to avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours prior to the procedure.
Once at the Clinic, first you will be greeted and handed over the registration and medical form. Then the doctor will go the form with you and check your suitability for the procedure.
You can then discuss what your concerns are and what you want to achieve and ask any questions you have.
He will then assess your face, take some photos before the procedure.
You will be looked after by his assistant, Priya, who will make sure any make up is removed and the area is cleansed. The doctor may mark some areas in your face.
Before your treatment topical anesthetic cream will be applied to the areas which you will be having the dermal fillers to numb the skin and minimise any pain. Then the injection will take place and you will be applied ice by the assistant to minimize bruising and pain. We will do our best to keep you comfortable.
Once it’s over, we will apply some arnica gel to further minimise any bruising.
You will be given Aftercare advice and make sure you understand everything.
Once you have had your treatment the areas injected may be slightly red and there will also be some swelling which will subside a couple of days after treatment.
- Do dermal fillers hurt?
There will be some discomfort while injecting the fillers but as explained above, you will have numbing cream applied and most fillers now come with lidocaine (anesthetic ingredient) inside. We also apply ice to keep you comfortable. Some areas of the face may be more sensitive than others and it will also depend on your pain threshold. The lips cane be extremely sensitive and as such cause most discomfort. However, in general it may not hurt as much as you thought it would! It may help you go to an experienced injector too.
- How long does it take to do?
The appointment will take about 45 minutes to an hour but this can differ depending on where you are having the dermal filler treatment and how much.
- How long does it take to recover from the procedure?
It varies with the patient and treatment areas but in general you can expect about one to two days. We advise you not to book your filler appointment not too close to any special occasion. Please discuss this with the practitioner.
There are a few things you need to do to look after yourself post procedure We will provide you with the Aftercare information and explain everything you need to do.
- When will I see the results?
Results are seen instantly after the treatment with dermal fillers, although this gradually improves over the course of the following 2–4 weeks.
- How long will the results last?
This will vary depending on the individual and the area treated; however generally speaking the dermal fillers last around 6-9 months in lips and 12-18 months in cheeks. This can also differ on the area treated and your body metabolism, your skin condition, lifestyle etc. for example- the nose is static compared to the lips meaning the dermal fillers will break down quicker in the lip area.
- Which brands of dermal fillers do we use?
We only use the market-leading dermal filler brands in the UK. We use products from Juvederm, Tesosyal, Restylane and Revolax and you can discuss the needs with the practitioner and he will choose the best one for the required treatment and your budget.
- Are there any side effects?
Following the procedure, there may be some slight tenderness and occasionally there may be some bruising at the injection site, however these symptoms will improve quickly. In the lips, you may experience swelling for a short period of time after the procedure. We recommend that any vigorous activity or exercise is avoided for the first 24-48 hours following the procedure. You need to follow the Aftercare Advice that will be given to you.
- How many syringes of filler will I need?
This will vary according to area being treated and the expected outcome. For a standard filler around the mouth or lip filler appointment, one syringe would be adequate. If you are looking for a more obvious result, or perhaps are having a larger area treated, there is the chance that you may require more than one syringe, so we do recommend bearing this is mind when considering the total treatment cost. You may discuss this with the practitioner during the consultation.
- Can anyone have dermal fillers?
No. You always need to go through a medical questionnaire with a professional to check the suitability of the procedure before you have the treatment.
- Can I just come for a consultation?
Yes, at The well:skin, we offer free no obligation consultations so you can discuss all your concerns and check suitability. You can then take your time to think whether to go ahead with having the procedure or not.
- How much does it cost?
The price depends on the number of syringes, the type of filler you choose. The price list can be seen on the website booking system. If in doubt, please contact The well:skin who will be happy to answer any queries.
- Are there any after-care instructions?
After your treatment we will again go through with you any after care advice in order to maximise your treatment benefits and avoid any undesirable side effects.
You can resume normal activities, drive yourself home or return to work immediately after the treatment.
The well:skin 2019