Dermal fillers can be used to soften lines, folds, and wrinkles, or to give volume or a mild lift. We are using hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers. HA is a natural substance found in most tissues in the body, where it binds to water molecules, giving them volume, shape, hydration, and elasticity. HA dermal fillers are broken down and absorbed by the body over time. They are also dissolvable.
The most common areas treated with dermal fillers are the midface (cheeks) and lips. Other areas include the nasolabial area (nose-to-mouth furrows), marionettes, temples, chin, tear trough, nose, and jawline. We can restore volume that has been lost over time or enhance other areas, e.g., the lips. Treatment involves gently injecting the dermal filler under the skin with a needle or microcannula.
Our aim at the AK Clinic is to enhance your appearance rather than change it.
Depending on the type of dermal filler used and the area treated, the effect can last anywhere from 6 to 12 months. Hyaluronic acid is broken down in the body at different rates by different people. Also, dermal filler in areas where there is a lot of movement, for example, in the lips or around the mouth, will break down more quickly.
Your suitability for dermal filler treatment will be discussed at your consultation. Some of the situations where dermal fillers should be avoided include pregnancy, breastfeeding, active inflammation (cold sores, skin infections, or any infection in the body), certain dental treatments, some medical conditions that affect your immune system, and some medications.
Bruising and swelling may be present after a procedure; therefore, it is best to plan dermal filler treatments at least 2 weeks before a major event or holiday. With careful treatment and aftercare, potential risks are reduced, but as with any procedure, it is important to be aware of them. Complications such as infection or vascular occlusion (blockage of a blood vessel) are rare but can occur.
It is recommended that you do not use makeup for 12 hours following treatment and that any extended exposure to the sun, UV rays, saunas, or temperatures below 0 °C be avoided for two weeks afterwards.
