Dermal fillers are non-surgical cosmetic treatments used to bring a more youthful appearance by restoring volume or fullness to the face and lips. They work by reducing or eliminating lines, wrinkles and folds in the skin and the effects are seen immediately after treatment.

Various kinds of safe, natural and man-made materials are used as dermal fillers; these have been specifically developed over the years for use in the skin. Two kinds of dermal fillers are usually suggested for the face: semi-permanent and nonpermanent:

The semi-permanent type (e.g. Radiesse and Sculptra) lasts up to 18 months.

The non-permanent fillers, such as, Hyaluronic Acid (e.g. Juvederm and Restylane) last for around 6-12 months, depending upon the the site of application and the formulation of the material used.

If you are pregnant or breast-feeding you would be advised to delay treatment, this is simply a precaution.

It depends on the number of areas to be treated and the depth or severity of thewrinkles present. Many people find one syringe will comfortably treat their lips but it is always better to assess and discuss this in the clinic.

The effects of fillers are instant, therefore you will be able to notice the change immediately. There is always swelling on the day of treatment from the injections so be prepared for the initial appearance to reduce  in volume over the next few days. It is at this point a decision can be made as to whether more filler is required.

A local anaesthetic cream is used to make the treatment as comfortable  as possible. For treatments near the mouth, such as lip treatments, your practitioner will freeze the area with an anaesthetic injection. After the treatment your practitioner will give you aftercare instructions to maximise its benefits.

The commonest side effects are related to the fact that you have had injections in the area being treated, they typically last only one to three days. These side effects can include slight bleeding and mild bruising, swelling may also occur around thearea. If you have lip treatment swelling can last 3-5 days, otherwise it is temporary.Allergic reactions to dermal filler treatment are rare but can include: redness, itching, swelling, and hardness, or small bumps under the skin. These side effects may last for weeks or months and sometimes longer, fortunately they are very rare.