Dermal Fillers
What are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal Fillers are gel like substances that are injected into the skin at varying depths depending on the area being treated. Todays most popular fillers are non-permanent and Dr Kent works with both hyaluronic acid based fillers (eg. Restylane, Juvederm, Belotero) and calcium hydroxyapatite based fillers (namely Radiesse). The Ageing face loses volume and fat, ageing skin loses collagen – all this results in our skin becoming saggy and lined. Dermal fillers help in restoring our skin to a more youthful appearance.
What can be treated with dermal fillers?
The application of dermal fillers is diverse and the results of treatment are only limited by the experience and creativity of your injecting doctor. Common areas to be injected include nasolabial folds (nose to mouth lines), marionette lines (sad lines below the mouth corners), lips (for defiinition and volume), vertical lip lines (smokers lines), cheek and cheekbone enhancement, chin augmentation and nose shaping.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occuring substance already found in human tissues. It plays an important role in skin health and joint lubrication. As we age the levels of hyaluronic acid decrease resulting in skin degeneration (wrinkles). Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are widely used in the UK largely due to their biocompatibility. Patch testing is not required prior to use.
Which hyaluronic acid filler is right for me?
There are many manufactures of hyaluronic acid fillers and each brand typically consists of a range of dermal fillers (covering different appications). Dr Kent has experience with many dermal filler brands and is not tied to one particular manufacturer. Following consultation Dr Kent will make an experience based recommendation. Hyaluroniac acid fillers most commonly used by Dr Kent include Restylane, Juvederm, Teosyal and Belotero.
What is Radiesse?
Radiesse is a dermal filler containing a substance called Calcium Hydroxyapatite. It is unique in that it stimulates the production of new collagen giving long lasting, natural results. Radiesse has an excellent safety profile and is both FDA approved and CE certified. Radiesse is particularly useful for facial volumising and hand rejuvenation. Radiesse is discussed in futher detail on the following pages:
Radiesse Vector Lift
Hand Rejuvenation
What happens during treatment?
Prior to treatment Dr Kent will take a medical history and assess your suitability for treatment. If suitable for treatment both your expectations and those of Dr Kent will be discussed. If you are happy to proceed with treatment you will be required to sign a consent form indicating you understand the treatment and its potential side effects. The treatment itself involves injecting the chosen filler into the skin using a fine needle or a cannula. Topical anaesthetic can be used beforehand and many fillers now have local anaesthetic ‘built-in’ to minimise discomfort.
Are the results of treatment instant?
Yes, the results of dermal filler treatment are instant. There may be some injection related side effects such as mild redness and swelling which resolve within a few days.
How long do the results of treatment last?
This varies depending on the area being treated, the dermal filler being used and patient factors such as age, skin condition, uv exposure and smoking.
