Dermal Fillers
Dermal Fillers
Face and lip fillers (dermal fillers)
Face and lip fillers (dermal fillers) are substances injected into your face. They fill lines and wrinkles and add volume to areas such as your lips or cheeks.
Fillers are not permanent. How long they last depends on things like the type of filler and where it’s injected. They usually last between 6 and 18 months.
Most dermal fillers used in the UK contain a natural substance called hyaluronic acid.
If you have fillers, the rest of your face will continue to age as normal.
What happens when you have face and lip fillers
An anaesthetic cream will be used first to numb your skin. Injections are given around the area of your face being treated, which is then massaged.
It might feel uncomfortable but should not be painful.
The treatment usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on the area being treated.
Afterwards
The affected area may be a bit red, sore and swollen. Any swelling or bruising should settle down in a few days.
You should be advised about what to do to help reduce the risk of side effects.
This includes not wearing make-up immediately after the procedure and avoiding alcohol, coffee and the sun.
Risks
The risks of dermal fillers depend on whether the procedure was done correctly and the type of filler used. Speak to your practitioner about the risks.
Serious problems are rare but can include:
- infection
- a lumpy appearance under the skin, which might need to be treated with surgery or medicine
- the filler moving away from the intended treatment area, which may need to be removed using surgery
- scarring
- blocked blood vessels in the face, which can cause tissue death and permanent blindness
