Filler injections are commonly used for facial corrections, targeting areas such as the zygomatic region, lips, nasolacrimal groove, nasolabial folds, chin, and others. Prior to the procedure, the doctor discusses the desired outcome with the patient. Anesthesia, either through application or infiltration, is then applied to the treatment area.
The duration of the procedure can range from 25 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific area of correction and the complexity of the case. Dermal fillers can be purchased online or obtained from the clinic where the procedure is performed. After the contouring procedure, patients may be offered a cold compress before being allowed to return home with both written and verbal instructions.
What do fillers do?
Dermal fillers consist of a gel injected into the tissue to restore volume. As we age, the volume of soft tissues in the face, particularly adipose tissue, diminishes, resulting in sunken cheekbones and cheeks. Fillers help address this by restoring a youthful fullness to the face.
They also minimize the appearance of wrinkles, particularly in the nasolabial folds and the grooves around the mouth.
Additionally, dermal fillers are commonly used for lip augmentation. While lip augmentation is often discussed negatively, the skilled use of fillers can help preserve the natural beauty and individuality of the lips despite the effects of aging.
The use of hyaluronic acid in fillers provides a temporary effect of the procedure. However, it also significantly reduces the risk of complications. The hyaluronic acid found in the Aliaxin SR brand is naturally present in the human body and is found in abundance in the skin and lens of the eye, making allergic reactions unlikely.
It is worth noting that hyaluronic acid has an antidote. In the event of complications or if the desired effect is not achieved, a special enzyme called hyaluronidase can be used to instantly dissolve the filler. While rare, this option exists for situations where, for example, a patient wishes to reverse the procedure after realizing that the outcome does not suit their facial features, as was the case with a person wanting lips like Angelina Jolie’s.
How long does the effect last?
Fillers can be categorized as either biodegradable (absorbable) or non-biodegradable (non-absorbable). Non-biodegradable fillers, such as silicone, polyacrylamide gel, and biopolymers, are rarely used nowadays due to the high risk of complications, both legally and ethically.
The most commonly used fillers are biodegradable, hyaluronic acid-based ones. Depending on the specific product, these fillers are naturally absorbed by the body within 6-12 months.
Consequently, the effects of such fillers typically last for six months to one year. After this period, the procedure can be repeated if desired or necessary.
The duration of the effect is also influenced by the injection site. For instance, fillers tend to dissolve more rapidly in the lips.
Key recommendations
For 2-3 weeks following the procedure, avoid applying mechanical pressure or massaging the injection site. Limit excessive facial expressions during the first 2 weeks after the procedure. Within seven days of the contouring treatment, refrain from consuming spicy, salty, and hot foods. Avoid peels and scrubs in the treated area for 2 weeks. Minimize alcohol consumption for the first two weeks following the procedure. Apply a thin layer of a recommended cream to the injection area twice a day. It is normal to experience bruising and swelling for 10-14 days after the procedure. Patients should not be overly concerned about these symptoms.
The doctor will provide more detailed written recommendations with specific comments to the patient following the procedure.
IMPORTANT!
Consult your doctor regarding post-procedure restrictions and things to avoid. Prior to the procedure, request that your doctor open the filler package and show you the syringe filled with the product. At the end of the procedure, the doctor should show you the empty syringe. The entire contents of the syringe must be used and cannot be reserved for additional treatment or subsequent corrections.
