Dermal fillers, also known as injectable implants, soft tissue fillers, lip and facial fillers, or wrinkle fillers are approved by the FDA for use in helping to create a smoother and/or fuller appearance in the face, including Naso-labial folds (the lines extending from the sides of the nose to the edges of the mouth), cheeks, chin and lips. It is also possible to administer what is effectively a non-surgical 8-point facelift and liquid Rhinoplasty.

Hyaloronic acid dermal fillers are made from a biocompatible, cross-linked HA gel. This type of product is injected into the skin to add volume and lift sagging areas such as nasolabial folds. Some of the other hyaluronic acid benefits for skin include increased hydration and plump-looking skin fillers normally leave behind.

Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers have been chemically cross-linked to allow the body's natural enzymes to slow down the normal breakdown of HA. Their ability to remain in place for a long period of time makes them ideal products to add volume, hydrate, and treat fine lines and wrinkles as they can hold 100 times their weight in water!

Personally, I find it truly amazing that having some dermal filler in the cheek area can change the whole look of your face and even iradicate jowls !!!

What are the most common side effects?

All treatments have some risk involved, with the most common being,

  • Bruising
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Tenderness
  • Itching
  • Rash

What should not be done after dermal filler treatments?

Don't sleep on your face

You mustn't sleep on your face for the first day or so after getting dermal fillers. Putting pressure on your face can worsen swelling and bruising after your appointment.

2. Don't apply makeup

You want to ensure you allow your skin to heal after receiving dermal fillers. Avoid applying makeup to your face or lips for at least 24 hours after your appointment to avoid complications.

3. Don't exercise right away

Something else you should avoid for at least 24 hours after you get dermal fillers is strenuous exercise or physical activity. These activities increase your blood pressure, exacerbating bruising and swelling around the injection sites.

4. Avoid hot temperatures

After your first dermal filler appointment, you want to avoid any hot and humid place. For example, don't rush to the sauna or a hot tub right after your treatment. The high heat makes swelling in your face a lot worse.

How should you prepare for your appointment?

Patients are generally advised to avoid medications or products with blood-thinning properties for several days before and after the procedure. This helps reduce the risk of bruising or bleeding. Patients should continue with a healthy diet and drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated. Patients wanting added discretion are advised to book appointments on a Friday or when it is possible to take a day off work. Even though dermal fillers are a minimally invasive procedure, taking 24 – 48 hours of downtime allows any possible side effects to dissipate before returning to work or normal activities.