What is Dermal Filler and how does it work?

Dermal filler consists of hyaluronic acid gel, a naturally occurring sugar molecule. Once bound to water in the skin, it provides hydration and volume to smooth wrinkles and folds. It also cushions and supports collagen and elastic fibres in this skin. The filler of choice used by Vedaskin® is Juvederm® and it is the leading Dermal Filler on the market.

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The formation of fine lines and wrinkles is twofold; the process of ageing leads to a slower production of collagen and elastin in the skin thus influencing skin quality and appearance. Throughout life we also use our facial muscles for expression e.g. smiling and frowning and, with time, skin creases appear in areas of greatest use. As we age, areas over-used are reflected by the appearance of lines that become permanent.

 

What will the treatment involve and where can it be used?

You will undergo a facial analysis to determine areas of concern. The treatment comes as a clear sterile gel in a syringe mixed with local anaesthetic for injection into the skin resulting in instant correction with minimal discomfort. Treatment usually takes about 30 minutes to complete but additional time is allocated to ensure you are always at ease.

Dermal fillers can be used:

• To enhance or correct facial contours

• To define, correct or enhance the lips

• To smooth or soften facial wrinkles or folds

• To improve the texture, tone and hydration of the skin

 

What about after my treatment and when should I expect to
notice results?

Following your treatment, Vedaskin® recommend that you follow all aftercare to ensure the best results possible.

• Protect your skin with a physical barrier SPF suitable for your skin type.

• Drink water daily, preferably up 2 litres.

• Follow your homecare routine as normal.

• For long term results book in for regular treatments as advised by Vedaskin®.

• Avoid perfumes, aftershaves, perfumed products, oils and moisturiser on the area for 24-48 hours after treatment. (Unless otherwise advised).

• Avoid exercise for 24 to 48 hours after treatment.

• Alcohol should be avoided on the day before and after treatment.

• Avoid swimming and heat treatments e.g. saunas, hot baths for 48 hours after treatments.

• Avoid touching or picking the area as it may increase risk of inflammation and infection of the skin.

• Only use mineral make up directly after the treatment, otherwise wait 24 hours before using any other make up products.

• Do not expose skin to UV (including the use on sun beds and fake tan) for at least two weeks after treatments.

• Do not consume excessive alcohol for 24 hours as this may lead to excessive bruising.

• If you get any bruising, apply ice and arnica cream, or take arnica tablets for 5 days after the treatment.

• It is not unusual to experience some mild redness and swelling after treatment and can be eased by applying ice.

• If you are prone to cold sores around the mouth, and this is the area which you want to be treated, ask your GP to prescribe Zovirax tablets for you, to be taken just before and for a few days after the procedure.

• Please be mindful of the possibility of asymmetry, over correction or under correction. For some patients, filler duration may be shorter or longer than anticipated.

• Allergic response to such treatment is rare, as in infection to the treated area.

• Prolonged firmness, abscess formation or greyish discolouration at the filler site may occur. Even more rare, the formation of a scab and sloughing (shedding) of tissue at the treatment site has been noted which would result in a shallow scar

 

How often can I have treatments?

Over time the dermal filler will dissolve causing no harm to you however longevity between individuals does vary and most treatments will last between 6-9 months. For some effects can persist for up to 18 months.

 

Are there any side effects?

Side effects are short-lived and in most cases mild. The most common side effect is some mild redness, swelling or bruising at the site of injection. The above are temporary and usually resolve within the first few days, swelling is often marked the next morning but settles within hours, bruising can take a week to 10 days to resolve and can sometimes persist for longer.

There are known cautions and absolute contraindications to having treatment and these are:

• Viral or bacterial infection at the site of injection or nearby region

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Known allergy to any ingredient

• Any adverse effect to any other dermal filler brand

• History of neuromuscular disorder (e.g. myasthenia gravis)

• History of autoimmune disease

• If you suffer from a poorly controlled medical condition e.g. Diabetes Mellitus

• Certain medications which affect bleeding e.g. Aspirin or Warfarin

• If you are taking steroids

• Current or recently completed a course of Roacutane (acne treatment) in the last 18 months

• Attending a special event whereby any side effects should they occur, would be unacceptable to you
   

Please note:

• Injections on the face can trigger the cold sore virus. It is vital that you advise Vedaskin® of this in advance of any treatment.

• Safety has not been established for those skins susceptible to keloid scarring.

 

Vedaskin® wants you to know that:

• We will not treat any individual 18 years of age or below.

• Due to the rising concerns of body dysmorphic disorder and other psychological conditions, if there is any concern from a professional view, we will confidently refuse to offer treatment and advise why.