Injectables and Dermal Fillers
Injectable treatments are extremely popular because they offer little downtime to treat wrinkles, folds, and hollowing on the face. They can be done prior to a social event or special occasion, or to maintain a nice smooth facial contour. Often, they are performed for individuals who may not be ready for surgery, or for those post-operative patients who want to maintain their results and continue to look their best. Injectables are generally considered beginning in the third decade of life, but there is no upper age limit for this type of treatment.
The choice of injectable agent is critical to the successful treatment of wrinkles, folds, and facial depressions. An individual consultation with Dr Bill Lyon will give you an accurate assessment of what will be best suited for your face. Often, a combination of agents may be used to achieve optimal results in different portions of your face.
Severe complications from dermal fillers are uncommon. Potential risks vary depending on the specific filler used and the relative permanence of the filler substance and may include:
- Acne-like skin eruptions
- Asymmetry
- Bleeding from the injection site
- Bruising
- Damage to the skin that results in a wound and possible scarring
- Infection that can occur early or later
- Lumps
- Palpability of the filler under the surface of the skin
- Skin rash with itching
- Skin redness
- Reappearance of clod sores
- Swelling
- Under- or over-correction of wrinkles.
- Skin necrosis (ulceration or loss of skin from disruption of blood flow)
- Blindness or possible strokes are exceedingly rare but have been reported
What is the recommended aftercare for injectables and dermal fillers?
- Remain upright for four hours following your treatment and avoid lying down while the product settles into place.
- Avoid any skin treatments like Microdermabrasion, Skin Needling, or Dermal Rolling for two weeks after dermal fillers
- Avoid active skincare products such as Retinol for at least 5 days after the treatment.
- Avoid alcohol and painkillers such as ibuprofen before and after treatment as they tend to thin the blood and can make you prone to bruising.
How long will dermal fillers last?
Dermal fillers can last from three to six months and in some cases longer depending on how fast the body metabolises the product and where it is placed. Lips are a high activity area as we use them all the time, this can impact how long the results will last.
How soon can I fly after treatment with dermal fillers?
Avoid international travel for a week post-treatment. The prolonged cabin air pressure can cause unpredictable swelling and bruising.
When can I return to exercise?
Do not exercise for 24 hours after your treatment and avoid any exercise that involves inverted poses (e.g. yoga, pilates, barre, etc) and provoke sweating as the Dermal Filler is settling into place.
How should I look after my skin after treatment with injectables and dermal fillers?
- Avoid exposing your skin to excessive heat or cold including saunas, spas, steam rooms, hot yoga, ice baths, or skiing. Changes in temperature can lead you to touch or rub your face more which can put unwanted pressure on the treated muscles, risking dispersion of the protein into unwanted areas.
- Avoid massaging or applying pressure to the face which can affect how the product settles in a particular area. When cleansing the skin and applying skincare and makeup, only use gentle strokes.
Important note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
