Filler:
A filler is gel-like material that is injected under the skin for filling, to reduce facial lines, restore volume and fullness in it, and help make the appearance smoother, as there are many types of fillers, so the doctor is responsible for determining the appropriate material for injection according to the patient’s condition
Other names:
Cosmetic fillings - Wrinkle fillings - Soft tissue fillings - Soft tissue augmentation.
Types of fillers:
It is a natural substance found in the skin, helps maintain full and moist skin, and it is chemically modified in cosmetic fillings to make it last longer in the body, and is usually soft and gel-like, as it lasts from 4 to 12 months or more before it is gradually and naturally absorbed by the body.
It is a type of mineral found naturally in teeth and bones. It is used in cosmetic fillings where the calcium particles are in a soft gel and are thicker than hyaluronic acid fillers and usually last for a longer period of about 6 to 12 months.
- Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA):
It is a biodegradable synthetic material that is safe to use in the body. It has been used for many years in medical procedures (such as: dissolvable stitches). It stimulates collagen. Results appear gradually over a period of 2-3 weeks, and its effects may last for 1-3 weeks. Years.
Cosmetic fillings vary in chemical composition, duration, and degree of softness, as soft fillings are used in the lips, while stronger fillings may be needed for the cheekbones, and the choice is made according to the doctor’s opinion and experience.
The Process:
The dermal filler procedure includes the following steps:
- The face will be evaluated by the doctor and the areas that may need fillers will be examined, then topical anesthesia will be applied to relieve pain.
- The injection usually takes only a few moments for each area, as the injection process is performed with the area massaged and the result evaluated, and the filler may be added as needed, depending on the number of areas. The entire process may take approximately 15-30 minutes.
- Results can be seen immediately, and ice may be applied for 15 to 20 minutes before leaving; To reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. It usually does not require any pain medication.
- Some fillers require allergy testing; To make sure you don't have an allergic reaction.
The filler lasting period:
The filler lasts several months to several years depending on the implant used and the patient.
Filler uses:
With age, the body naturally loses subcutaneous fats, so the facial muscles work close to the surface of the skin, so smile lines and fine lines become more visible. It is also used to reduce the signs of aging that appear on the face, lips, and hands, as it can be used for the following:
- Cheeks fullness.
- Hollow areas under the eyes.
- Deep wrinkles.
- Reduce scars.
- Remove fine lines.
- Fullness of the lips.
- Fullness of the back of the hands.
- Reduce chin wrinkles.
Unsupported uses:
- Breast enlargement (breast augmentation).
- Increase the size of the buttocks.
- Increase the fullness in the feet.
- Injection into bones, tendons, ligaments or muscles.
Risks associated with unapproved materials for dermal fillers are unknown.
Side effects:
Most side effects occur soon after the injection, and most disappear in less than two weeks, which include:
- Bruises
- Redness.
- Temporary numbness.
- Swelling
- Pain.
- Itching and rash.
- Difficulty carrying out activities (when injected into the back of the hand).
When to see a doctor:
- Having a severe allergic reaction.
- Movement of injection material to other places.
- Leakage or rupture of the material from the injection area.
- Formation of permanent hard nodules on the face or hand.
- Damage to the skin or lips.
- Infection.
Complications:
- Acne
- Injection sites asymmetry.
- Bleeding from the injection site.
- Wounds and scars.
- Possibility of contact with the filler under the skin.
- Infection at the injection site.
General Instructions:
- Always ensure receipt of materials approved and authorized by the Food and Drug Authority.
- It is generally advised to avoid intense physical activity or any other strenuous activity for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and bruising.
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun.
- Avoid touching the treated area for three days, unless instructed to massage the area.
- One filler (Poly-L-lactic acid) requires gently massaging the treated area for 5 minutes several times a day for 1-2 weeks, during which time you will be told by your doctor when the area needs to be massaged.