As a result of age, sun damage, worry, gravity and other environmental factors, our facial skin begins to develop lines and wrinkles. While this is a manifestation of normal aging of the skin along with a reduction in the collagen and elastic framework of the skin it is possible to smooth out folds and wrinkles using Dermal Fillers to give a more relaxed and youthful appearance.

Which dermal fillers do we use?

There are many fillers on the market these days but the original one which is widely known is Collagen, a product which is derived from cow hide and which is known to produce allergic reactions in some people as it is an animal product. Our physicians use synthetically produced non-animal products consisting of hyaluronic acid, a natural chemical constituent of the skin, which is far less likely to produce allergic reactions. We also use human collagen which does not produce allergic reactions and does not require multiple allergy skin tests which is required with fillers derived from animal sources.

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How is the procedure done?

The chosen filler material is injected into the lines and defects to plump them out and then remains in the skin where it binds water to produce a lift and firmness to the treated areas. The filler material is introduced into the skin by a simple injection technique, usually without the need for local anaesthetic.

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Which areas can be treated by dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers can be used for filling out lines and wrinkles around the mouth, eyes, nose and forehead. In addition your mouth can be a fuller and more sensuous form by enhancing the lip in order to produce a better definition and reduction in lipstick bleed. The lips can also be given a greater volume and fuller appearance by this simple technique. Facial contouring, for example cheek and chin dimples can be achieved using dermal fillers to smooth out the hollows and alter the facial contour. The exact type of filler chosen will depend on the site of treatment and the degree of correction required.

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How long does the treatment take?

Treatments usually take around thirty minutes and for lip enhancement a local anaesthetic injection is usually given to remove any discomfort associated with treatment at this site. Topical anesthetic creams may also be used.

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How long does the treatment last?

Typically, the results of the treatment can last six to nine months but this varies from one individual to another. The filler is gradually broken down and absorbed by the body so the lines, wrinkles or lips will ultimately return to their previous appearance unless top up treatments are given. There are now some semi-permanent or even permanent dermal fillers available producing long lasting results.

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Are dermal fillers a safe treatment?

The modern synthetically produced dermal fillers are extremely safe with a low incidence of allergic reaction. There is, however, a very small possibility of allergic reaction, which will be discussed with you at your consultation. There is usually some degree of redness and swelling after the treatment, which usually resolves within 1-2 days. In the case of lip augmentation there may be some swelling and bruising for several days.

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What Is JUVÉDERM™ Injectable Gel?

As we age, our skin changes. Over time, the natural volume of youthful skin begins to diminish as wrinkles and folds form. But, with Juvéderm™ injectable gel, you don't have to just sit back and let it happen! Recently approved by the FDA, Juvéderm™ injectable gel is a “next-generation” dermal filler. The smooth consistency gel helps to instantly restore your skin's volume and smooth away facial wrinkles and folds, like your "smile lines" or “parentheses” (nasolabial folds—the creases that run from the bottom of your nose to the corners of your mouth).

Juvéderm™ is a smooth consistency gel made of hyaluronic acid—a naturally occurring substance in your skin that helps to add volume and hydration. Your healthcare professional eases Juvéderm™ injectable gel under the skin to provide a smooth, natural look and feel—so everyone will notice (but no one will know)! In fact, studies show superior results of Juvéderm™ compared to a collagen-based dermal filler.* And, almost 90% of all study volunteers who were treated with both Juvéderm™ injectable gel and another dermal filler* preferred Juvéderm™! In addition, Juvéderm™ injectable gel is the first FDA-approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler that is proven to be safe and effective for persons of color.

With Juvéderm™ the injection process takes only about 15 minutes and results are immediate. Plus, there's minimal recovery or downtime. So you can step into your doctor's office for treatment and step right back into your life.
*The other dermal filler used in this study was ZYPLAST® dermal filler (bovine-based collagen).

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What is Restylane® ?

Restylane® is a safe and natural cosmetic dermal filler that restores volume and fullness to the skin to correct facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds.

Restylane is a cosmetic dermal filler made of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that already exists in the human body. The hyaluronic acid in Restylane is a crystal-clear gel called NASHA™ or Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid. NASHA is completely biocompatible with human hyaluronic acid.

Restylane maintains its shape using the body's own moisture. The hyaluronic acid in Restylane is hydrophilic or "water loving." As hyaluronic acid gradually degrades, each molecule binds to more water and over time, the same volume can be maintained with less hyaluronic acid. This ability of hyaluronic acid to bind to water is what helps provide lasting results.

Unlike rooster-derived hyaluronic acids and bovine collagen products, Restylane is free from animal proteins. This limits any risk of animal-based disease transmissions or development of allergic reactions to animal proteins.*

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Results - Before and after

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After 6 months

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