What are dermal fillers?

The term “Dermal Fillers” is used to describe a sterile gel that is injected under the skin to provide volume, lift and/or contouring. Dermal fillers are usually cross-linked to give a more structural effect.
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Most dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid which is a naturally occurring sugar found in your own skin. This makes them safe to inject as the body doesn’t reject them, and reversible with a product called hyaluronidase which dissolves them.
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A few contain calcium or amino acids which work in a similar way to enhance collagen and elastin production.
How do dermal fillers work?
Dermal fillers are injected into the body at various depths and provide structural changes that are visible instantly. There are thin dermal fillers, which are suitable for rejuvenation of sensitive areas such as under the eyes or in the lips. There are also thicker dermal fillers that can be used to enhance the cheeks or correct irregularities in the nose.
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There are several brands of dermal filler including JuvedermTM, Restylane TM, BeloteroTM, TeosyalTM and Intraline.
Dermal fillers do not require a prescription but should only be administered by a trained professional.

What can dermal fillers be used for?

Dermal fillers improve the tone, texture and hydration of the skin. They can be used for a variety of purposes and as our knowledge and confidence using these products grows, so do the clinical applications.
Currently we use dermal fillers to:
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Enhance, define, shape, and rejuvenate the lips.
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Fill deep lines around the mouth such as nasolabial, marionette and barcode lines.
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Contour and enhance the temples, cheeks, nose, chin, and jawline.
Am I suitable for dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers cannot be given if you have had a previous allergic or hypersensitivity reaction to fillers. If you have an allergy to lidocaine we can use a lidocaine-free filler but there may be a little more discomfort during the treatment. You also must not have fillers if you are under 18 years of age, are pregnant or breastfeeding, you are on certain medications, or you have certain medical problems.
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​You may not be suitable for treatment with dermal fillers if you have an active infection (especially coldsores if you are having lip filler), or if you are unwell.
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Caution must be taken if you are on blood thinners or certain antibiotics.
