Dermal Fillers at Dr Clare Aesthetics - Expert Aesthetics Clinics in North London

A. Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Most dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps maintain skin hydration and volume.

• Fast results: Results are visible immediately.
• No surgery: Just a few injections, no cutting or downtime needed.
• Versatile: From wrinkles to thin lips, fillers can help by contouring, adding volume, and smoothing out lines.
• Long-lasting: Enjoy the results for several months or more.
• Few problems: Most people only have some swelling or redness.
• Bespoke treatments: The treatments are tailored to address any area you wish to focus on.

A. Dermal fillers can be used to treat various areas of the face, including:

• Cheeks
• Lips
• Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
• Marionette lines (lines from the corners of the mouth down to the chin)
• Under-eye hollows
• Jawline
• Temples

A. The longevity of dermal fillers varies depending on the type of filler used, the area treated and the individual's metabolism. Most dermal fillers last 6-18 months. At Dr Clare Aesthetics, I recommend maintenance treatments (normally much smaller treatments) every 6 to 18 months depending on the individual.

A. Yes, dermal fillers can look fake if not done correctly. This can happen for a few reasons:

• Overfilling: Using too much filler can create an unnatural, puffy appearance.
• Incorrect placement: Injecting filler in the wrong places can distort facial features.
• Poor quality filler: Using low-quality or unapproved fillers can lead to uneven results or complications.
• Inexperienced injector: If the injector lacks skill or experience, the results may not be aesthetically pleasing.

At Dr Clare Aesthetics, I use different advanced techniques to precisely inject the correct type and volume of filler to produce natural-looking results.

A. Patients may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with topical numbing cream. The filler itself contains lidocaine, which when injected additionally helps to numb the targeted area.

A. You will see the desired improvement in the treatment area immediately after the procedure. Common side effects include temporary swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness at the injection site, which may come on immediately or several hours following the treatment. It may take a few days for the swelling to go down and for the final results to be visible.

Less common side effects include skin infection, persistent lumps and skin discolouration/blistering. As a medical aesthetics practitioner in Grange Park, I provide expert treatments and in the unlikely event of a side effect, I can address any issues professionally and promptly.

Please contact me if you experience any of the following:

• If your skin becomes increasingly swollen or red/inflamed and hot to the touch.
• If your skin becomes increasingly itchy and uncomfortable.
• If you notice pustules and/or blisters on the skin.
• Severe or increasing levels of pain/tenderness in the treatment area.
• Pain in the eye area or visual disturbance.

A. Dermal fillers are not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with certain medical conditions, or those with allergies to filler ingredients. We will determine if dermal fillers are right for you during a consultation.

A. The cost of dermal fillers varies depending on the clinic in which it is performed, the amount needed, and the area of focus. Take a look at our pricing for our Grange Park clinic here.

A. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if necessary. Hyaluronidase is a prescription-only medication and must be prescribed by a doctor who has assessed the patient. Other types of fillers may not be reversible.

Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after treatment. However, it is advisable to avoid strenuous exercise and extremes of temperature for the first 24-48 hours or until most of the redness/swelling has settled.

• To reduce the risk of bruising, avoid taking anti-inflammatories (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen), alcohol, fish oils, St John’s wort and vitamins A & E for 1-3 days prior to treatment
• Do not stop prescription drugs for medical conditions without checking with your doctor first.
• You may choose to take arnica tablets/cream 2 days before to reduce the risk of bruising.

• You may experience mild redness, swelling or tenderness post injection. This is normal and to be expected. Bruising may occur immediately or hours/days after your treatment.
• Avoid touching, pressing or manipulating the treated area for at least 6 hours.
• You may apply ice packs gently to reduce swelling.
• Avoid makeup for 12 hours in the treatment area.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, sun and heat exposure for at least 24-48 hours.
• Avoid anti-inflammatories (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen), alcohol, fish oils, St John’s Wort and Vitamins A & E for at least 3 days after treatment. Do not stop prescription medications without checking with your doctor first.
• Consider using arnica cream or tablets to reduce bruising.
• Avoid the use of retinol or medicated skin products for 2 days after treatment.
• Drink plenty of water to help your skin heal. Avoid heavy alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours.
• Avoid other cosmetic treatments such as laser, facials, and peels for 2 weeks after your treatment.

Sun protection: Always wear sunscreen when outdoors.

If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to contact Dr Clare.