What is Dermal Filler?

Dermal fillers are soft tissue injectables used to restore volume, smooth facial wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. They help address common signs of ageing by filling lines and folds while improving overall facial symmetry and definition.

Most dermal fillers are composed of biocompatible materials such as hyaluronic acid or collagen. These substances are gradually absorbed by the body over time, making the results natural-looking yet temporary.

As a non-surgical and minimally invasive treatment, dermal fillers offer an effective alternative to cosmetic surgery—providing subtle rejuvenation, improved facial balance, and a refreshed, youthful appearance with minimal downtime.

How Does It Work?

Dermal filler treatments work by carefully injecting a soft gel-like substance—most commonly made of hyaluronic acid—beneath the skin. This material attracts and retains moisture, restoring lost volume, smoothing fine lines, and enhancing facial contours.

Once injected, the filler provides immediate structural support and lift to the treated area. Over time, it also stimulates the body’s natural collagen production, helping to improve skin texture and elasticity even after the filler gradually breaks down.

The procedure is minimally invasive, typically completed within minutes, and delivers natural-looking results with little to no downtime.

What Dermal Filler is used for?

Dermal fillers are versatile treatments designed to address a range of aesthetic concerns related to ageing and facial balance. They are commonly used to:

• Smooth facial lines and wrinkles such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines
• Restore lost volume in areas like the cheeks, temples, and under-eye hollows
• Enhance and define facial features including the lips, chin, nose, and jawline
• Improve facial symmetry and contour for a more harmonious appearance
• Rejuvenate the skin by improving hydration and stimulating natural collagen production

Dermal fillers provide an effective, minimally invasive option for achieving a refreshed and youthful look—without the need for surgery or prolonged recovery time.

Once injected, the filler provides immediate structural support and lift to the treated area. Over time, it also stimulates the body’s natural collagen production, helping to improve skin texture and elasticity even after the filler gradually breaks down.

The procedure is minimally invasive, typically completed within minutes, and delivers natural-looking results with little to no downtime.

Types of Dermal Filler

Dermal fillers vary based on their composition, longevity, and intended treatment area. Understanding the different types helps determine the most suitable option for each patient’s aesthetic goals.

1. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
The most commonly used type, hyaluronic acid fillers restore hydration, volume, and elasticity to the skin. They are biocompatible and reversible, making them ideal for enhancing lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds, and fine lines.

2. Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers
Composed of a naturally occurring mineral found in bones, these fillers provide stronger structural support and stimulate collagen production. They are often used for deeper wrinkles and facial contouring, such as the jawline or cheeks.

3. Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers
Known as a biostimulatory filler, PLLA works gradually by stimulating the body’s own collagen production. Results appear progressively over several months and are suitable for overall facial rejuvenation and volume restoration.

4. Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillers
A semi-permanent option containing tiny microspheres that provide long-lasting structural support. PMMA fillers are used for deeper wrinkles, acne scars, and areas requiring significant volume correction.

Suitability for Dermal Filler

Dermal fillers are suitable for individuals seeking to restore facial volume, smooth wrinkles, or enhance facial contours without undergoing surgery. Ideal candidates typically include:

• Individuals with mild to moderate facial wrinkles or volume loss due to ageing
• Those who wish to enhance specific features such as the lips, cheeks, chin, or nose
• Patients looking for a non-surgical alternative to facial rejuvenation or contouring
• Individuals with good general health and realistic expectations regarding outcomes
• Patients seeking temporary yet natural-looking results that can be adjusted or maintained over time

Dermal filler treatments may not be suitable for:

• Individuals with active skin infections or inflammation at the treatment site
• Those with a history of severe allergies or hypersensitivity to filler ingredients
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals

A consultation with a qualified dental or aesthetic professional is essential to assess suitability, discuss treatment goals, and ensure the best choice of filler and technique for optimal, safe results.

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What happens during the Dermal Filler procedure?

Dermal filler treatment is a straightforward, minimally invasive procedure typically completed within 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the treatment area.

1. Consultation and Assessment
Your practitioner will begin with a detailed assessment of your facial structure, skin condition, and treatment goals. The most suitable filler type and injection sites will be identified to achieve natural, balanced results.

2. Preparation
The treatment area is cleansed thoroughly, and a topical numbing cream or local anaesthetic may be applied to minimise discomfort during the procedure.

3. Injection Process
Using a fine needle or cannula, the dermal filler is carefully injected beneath the skin into targeted areas. The filler adds volume, smooths wrinkles, or enhances facial contours according to the treatment plan.

4. Moulding and Final Check
The practitioner may gently massage or shape the treated area to ensure even distribution and optimal contouring. The results are immediately visible.

5. Post-Treatment Care
After the procedure, mild swelling or redness may occur but typically subsides within a few days. Patients can return to normal activities shortly after treatment, with minimal downtime.

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Aftercare & Recovery

Aftercare and Recovery

Following a dermal filler procedure, most patients experience minimal downtime and can return to their daily activities shortly after treatment. However, proper aftercare is important to ensure optimal healing and results.

Immediately After Treatment

• Mild swelling, redness, or tenderness may occur at the injection sites; these effects are temporary and usually subside within a few days.
• Apply a cool compress gently to reduce swelling or discomfort if needed.
• Avoid touching, massaging, or applying pressure to the treated area for at least 24 hours.

For the First 24–48 Hours

• Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol consumption, and exposure to excessive heat (such as saunas or sunbathing).
• Refrain from applying makeup or skincare products directly over the injection sites unless approved by your practitioner.

Ongoing Care

• Keep the treated area clean and well-hydrated.
• Follow any additional post-treatment instructions provided by your practitioner.
• Results are visible immediately and continue to improve as swelling subsides, lasting several months depending on the filler type and individual factors.

Regular follow-up appointments help monitor results and plan maintenance treatments to preserve a natural, balanced appearance.

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