Dermal fillers work through a few primary mechanisms of action, depending on their composition:

Volume Replacement: The most immediate effect of dermal fillers is the addition of volume beneath the skin. This volume replacement helps to elevate depressions in the skin, like wrinkles and folds, and can also be used to enhance and sculpt the features of the face.

Hydration: Fillers such as those made from hyaluronic acid (HA) have a strong ability to bind and retain water. Once injected, these fillers draw water to the area, providing hydration and additional plumping to the skin.

Stimulating Collagen Production: Some dermal fillers, like those containing calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) or poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra), stimulate the body's natural production of collagen. Collagen is a protein that promotes elasticity and structure in your skin. Over time, as the body gradually absorbs these fillers, collagen remains at the injection site, providing a longer-lasting, natural firmness to the area.

Biocompatibility and Gradual Absorption: Many modern fillers are designed to be biocompatible, meaning they are accepted by the body without causing harm. Over time, the body naturally metabolizes and breaks down the filler material. The duration of this process depends on the type of filler and individual factors. In summary, the mechanism of action of dermal fillers involves immediate volume addition, hydration, and, in some cases, the stimulation of the body's own collagen production to restore and rejuvenate the skin and facial contours.

While dermal fillers are widely used for aesthetic enhancement and often well tolerated, it’s essential to understand that all cosmetic treatments carry potential risks and side effects. These risks vary depending on the individual’s medical history, the area being treated, and the specific type of filler used.

Possible risks may include:

• Redness, swelling or bruising at the injection site
  
• Tenderness, itching or discomfort in the treated area
  
• Lumps, bumps, or asymmetry
  
• Temporary numbness or changes in sensation
  
• Vascular occlusion (a rare but serious complication where filler may block a blood vessel)
  
• Infection or inflammation
  
• Allergic reaction to ingredients in the filler product
  
• Migration or movement of the filler material
  

It is essential that all patients—new and returning—undergo a comprehensive in-clinic assessment. This allows our Registered Nurses to evaluate your suitability for treatment and ensure you receive the appropriate information, preparation, and aftercare support.

Dermal fillers result in smoother, plumper skin, enhanced facial contours, reduced wrinkles, and revitalised appearance, yielding a more youthful and refreshed look.

This is a generalised guide. This is not indicative on the individual. Please be aware that the outcomes experienced by one person do not necessarily reflect the outcomes that other people may experience.

Dermal fillers involve injecting substances under the skin to restore volume or enhance features, typically lasting 15-60 minutes.

Dermal fillers are a non-surgical treatment that involve cosmetic injectables administered under the skin to restore volume, enhance facial features, and address various age-related changes. When done correctly by experienced professionals, dermal fillers offer several benefits:

1. Volume Restoration: With age, the face naturally loses subcutaneous fat. Dermal fillers can replace this lost volume, leading to a more radiant appearance.
2. Wrinkle Reduction: Fillers can be used to fill in shallow to deep facial wrinkles and folds, such as the nasolabial folds (the lines that around the nose and mouth) or marionette lines (lines that run from the corners of the mouth downwards).
3. Enhanced Facial Features: Fillers can be used to enhance the facial features, such as the jawline, chin, cheeks and nose, without surgery.
4. Lip Enhancement: Fillers can be used to provide fuller, plumper lips and reduce vertical lip lines.
5. Rejuvenate Hands and Décolletage: Beyond the face, fillers can be used to restore contours of the hands and reduce the appearance of veins and tendons. They can also be used to address wrinkles and skin thinning on the décolletage (the upper chest area).
6. Scar Treatment: Certain fillers are suitable for elevating depressed scars, making them more even with the surrounding skin.
7. Non-Surgical: Fillers offer a non-invasive alternative to surgical procedures, meaning shorter recovery time and fewer potential complications.
8. Immediate Results: Unlike some treatments that require time to see the full effect, the results from dermal fillers are often visible immediately after the procedure.
9. Reversible and Temporary: Many fillers, especially those based on hyaluronic acid, can be dissolved if the outcome is not what is expected or if there are complications. Moreover, most fillers are temporary, which allows individuals to choose whether to continue, adjust, or discontinue treatment over time.
10. Collagen Stimulation: Some fillers have properties that stimulate the body's production of collagen, a protein that helps keep the skin firm and youthful.
11. Improvement in Skin Texture: Some fillers can improve the hydration and texture of the skin, making it feel smoother and softer.
12. Confidence Boost: Enhancing or restoring facial features can lead to increased self-confidence and satisfaction with one's appearance.

Remember that while dermal fillers offer temporary results, the longevity of the outcome will vary depending on the type of filler used, the area treated, and individual factors. It's essential to have realistic expectations and communicate openly with your provider about your desired results and any concerns.

However, the effectiveness and safety of the procedure depend on the device used, the depth of needle penetration, the frequency of sessions, and the expertise of the practitioner.

As with all aesthetic treatments, the lip flip should be performed by a skilled and experienced injector to achieve the desired outcome and avoid complications.

• Avoid Touching the Treated Area: Try not to rub, touch or massage the area for at a minimum of 24 hours. This will help prevent the filler from shifting and causing irregularities.
• Swelling and Bruising: Some bruising and/or swelling is normal after receiving filler injections. To reduce inflammation, you can apply a cold pack to the treated area for 10-15 minutes every hour, but avoid putting ice directly on your skin. Arnica gel or tablets may also help reduce bruising.
• Avoid Strenuous Exercise: It's a good idea to avoid intense physical activity for 24-48 hours after the treatment to minimize swelling and bruising.
• Avoid Heat: Stay away from direct sunlight, hot tubs and saunas, tanning salons, for at a minimum of 24 hours. Excessive heat can cause additional swelling and inflammation.
• Avoid Alcohol: It's wise to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours, as it can increase the risk of bruising.
• Sleep Position: If possible, try sleeping with your head elevated to minimize swelling.
• Avoid Blood Thinners: Before getting fillers, discuss with your provider any medications or supplements you're taking that might thin the blood, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or vitamin E. These can increase the risk of bruising. Do not stop any medications (prescription or otherwise) without consulting your doctor.
• No Facials or Massages: Avoid facials, facial massages, or any treatments that involve putting pressure on your face for at least two weeks after the procedure.
• Makeup: Ask your provider when it's safe to apply makeup. Some suggest waiting at least 12 hours after the procedure.
• Skin Care: Continue with your regular skincare routine, but be gentle around the treated areas.
• Avoid Dental Procedures: It's often recommended to avoid any dental procedures for 2 weeks following fillers, especially if the fillers were placed around the mouth area.
• Report Any Concerns: If you experience extreme pain, blanching of the skin (turning white), or any other unexpected side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. These could be signs of complications like vascular occlusion.
• Follow-up: Book an appointment a couple of weeks after the procedure to check the results and see if any touch-ups are needed.