Dermal fillers are injectable treatments that add volume and hydration through use of their active ingredient, hyaluronic acid. They are an alternative to cosmetic surgery that can reduce the visible signs of aging and boost facial rejuvenation. SALT offers dermal fillers to enhance the shape of lips and improve the appearance of nasolabial folds.
Composed of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the human body, dermal fillers are injected beneath the skin with a fine needle to boost facial rejuvenation.
Dermal fillers are designed to smooth out facial folds and wrinkles, add volume to lips and contour facial features that may have lost fullness due to ageing, sun exposure or general health and lifestyle conditions. They are a great way to achieve an overall younger-looking appearance and if performed under the correct circumstances, can be carried out with minimal complications.
Unfortunately, not all treatments are suitable for all. Please check if any of the following contraindications apply:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Active infection near the site of injection
- Known allergy or hypersensitivity to the product, including lidocaine
After a dermal filler treatment, the following side effects may be experienced:
- Discomfort, swelling, redness, bruising and discolouration
- Transcutaneous injection associated infection
- Allergic reaction
- Reactivation of Herpes (cold sores)
- Lumpiness
- Visible yellow or white patches
- Granuloma formation
- Vascular occlusion
- Localised necrosis and / or sloughing
A vascular occlusion (VO) occurs when a blood vessel becomes blocked by filler particles, resulting in a reduced blood supply and nutrients to the area affected. If left untreated, it can be dangerous and skin necrosis may occur, therefore, your practitioner must be notified immediately.
Signs and symptoms of a VO include:
- Changes in colour of the affected area. This may be red (erythema), blueish-purple or white (blanching)
- Pain or discomfort at the site of the blockage
- Swelling
- The affected area may become cold in temperature
Since dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance, the body will naturally break down the product over time, however, results are expected to last between 6-18 months, depending on the type of filler used and the area injected.
Correctional treatment may be performed 2-4 weeks following the initial treatment and further enhancements may be performed after two months. Maintenance treatments will be required if prolonged results are desired.
Hyaluronic acid based dermal fillers may be dissolved with the presence of a soluble enzyme called hyaluronidase. Once injected, hyaluronidase may take 1-2 weeks to fully dissolve the product, therefore, it is not recommended to proceed with your next dermal filler treatment until this time.
Always ensure you stay hydrated following a dermal filler treatment.
Things to avoid:
- Makeup on the day of treatment
- Alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks for 24 hours
- Excessive heat for 3 days, such as heavy workouts, saunas, steam rooms and tanning
- Blood thinning medications, such as Aspirin, Nurofen and vitamin E, unless prescribed by your doctor
- Facial waxing for 7 days
- Massaging the treated area, unless instructed to do so
- Facial treatments or anti-wrinkle treatment for 2 weeks
IMPORTANT: If any loss of blood circulation is experienced, please contact your practitioner immediately. This can appear as paleness or white/grey discolouration