FAQs

What are dermal filler injections?

Dermal filler injections are cross linked Hyaluronic acid gels that are injected into the dermis of the skin. They can be injected superficially to iron out lines and wrinkles or deeper to give more volumisation in areas lacking support. They can be used in the form of skinboosters on the face, neck, décolletage or hands help to hydrate the skin from within, providing a plump and youthful appearance.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan, which is essentially a sugar. It is naturally occurring in our bodies, with 50 percent of it being found in our skin. It is one of the major components of the skin, helping to keep our collagen and elastin supple and hydrated. It has an important role in retaining moisture, as one molecule alone can hold up to 1000 times its own weight in water!
Dermal fillers like Restylane and Juvéderm work like sponges once they're injected, swelling up with water to create a plumper look.
Over time—anywhere from three to 12 months—the hyaluronic acid gets absorbed by the body and disappears. Hyaluronic acid is also not likely to produce a reaction, since the body does not recognize it as a foreign substance. If you're not happy with how it looks, an enzyme called hyaluronidase can disperse the hyaluronic acid even before it naturally dissolves..

What is the recovery time after dermal filler treatment?

Recovery time is small for our non-surgical procedures, you can go back to normal life almost immediately. For dermal fillers, it depends on where they are placed.
In the very thin areas such as around the eyes and lips, there are higher risks of bruising, swelling and redness. You can go back to work and normal routine straight away, as side effects are usually minor. However, I would say to all my clients to ensure that you undergo the procedure atleast 2 weeks in advance of any important social events to allow for any tell-tale signs to resolve.

Dermal filler risks and side effects

Recovery time is small for our non-surgical procedures, you can go back to normal life almost immediately. For dermal fillers, it depends on where they are placed.

Common side effects include: redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. These only last a few hours to a few days and can be managed easily with our special complimentary aftercare pack and instructions. More serious side effects are very rare, but I believe it is imperative to know all of the risks if you are undergoing any surgical or non-surgical procedure.
The most serious outcomes can be an embolism or vascular occlusion which could result in tissue necrosis or death- if not treated promptly. There are higher risk sites for this to occur, such as around the eyes, which require extra precautions. In the hands of an experienced and properly trained practitioner, these risks are minimal and can be handled quickly before any long term damage is left behind.
I am always prepared for any adverse outcomes and encourage my patients to maintain contact with me personally in the days following treatment, as well as a complimentary follow up appointment booked, should anything out of the ordinary be noticed then we can deal with it promptly and effectively.