What to Expect During Your First Dermal Filler Treatment
As a first-time dermal filler candidate, the prospect may well be accompanied by an element of excitement as well as curiosity. Worldwide, dermal fillers have become one of the most frequently performed non-surgical aesthetic procedures. Their effectiveness in contouring the face, reintroducing lost volume and in helping you achieve a younger look is widely recognized.
But one of the main questions for all first time patients is always-what exactly is involved in a dermal filler treatment? Knowing what will happen is sure to boost your confidence.
Understanding Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are injections that are designed to fill space under the skin. In many cases, they consist of Hyaluronic Acid which is a substance found in our body which aids the skins moisture and plumpness.
Common uses include:
- Augmenting lips
- Augmenting cheeks
- Augmenting the jaw line
- Fill in the lines from nose to mouth
- Treat fine lines and wrinkles
- Treat asymmetry
Before Your Appointment
1. Consultation
This is when the practitioner can look at your face shape and size, and talk to you about what aesthetic outcome you want to achieve. During this stage they will discuss their recommendations with you.
Your needs are important here so make sure to talk about what you are looking for. Bring some reference photos if you like, or let them know what issues you have.
You will also be given some pre-treatment advice. This usually involves stopping the taking of blood-thinning medicines (like Aspirin, unless it has been prescribed), stopping drinking alcohol and stop taking particular vitamin and nutritional supplements.
Arriving for the Treatment
On the day of your appointment the treatment area will normally be thoroughly cleansed. As most dermal fillers contain lignocaine (a local anesthetic to increase the comfort of the procedure) you can normally relax during the appointment.
You may also have a topical numbing agent applied prior to the treatment, however, most people report the procedure feels like a slight prick/pressure rather than a painful sensation. An appointment should typically last between 30 to 60 minutes depending on how many areas you are having treated.
During the Injection Process
The treated areas will be meticulously marked by the provider, who will discuss what will be done with each area before beginning.
Tiny quantities of filler will be injected into precise locations under the skin, using a fine needle or cannula. Injections will be made to ensure a natural-looking augmentation and proper balance to the face.
Periodically, the practitioner will pause to ensure balance and then make small adjustments as necessary, and may invite you to look in the mirror to evaluate the areas, as well as the end result.
Though some areas may be slightly more sensitive than others, the majority of patients report the procedure to be very tolerable.
What You Will See Immediately After Treatment
One of the biggest benefits of dermal fillers is that the results can be seen right away.
You may experience:
- A feeling of fullness
- Contours being restored
- Fine lines and wrinkles being softened
- The face having greater definition
It is important to remember however, that it will take a few days to see the true final result. Initial swelling can mean the treated area appears larger than it will ultimately be. Once over time the filler begins to relax and the swelling reduces.
Common Side Effects After Treatment
Side effects following dermal filler injections are expected and usually mild.
Normal temporary side effects of dermal filler injections can include:
- Minor swelling
- Redness
- Soreness
- Bruising
- Minor firmness in areas injected
These usually resolve in the space of a few days and are a normal and expected part of healing. Ice applied externally will usually help.
Aftercare Tips for First-Time Patients
Crucial for the optimum results is the correct aftercare.
Most practitioners suggest:
- Not to do strenuous activity for 24-48 hours
- Not to drink alcohol immediately after your treatment
- Not to spend excessive amounts of time in heat, e.g. Saunas and Jacuzzis
- Not to touch or massage the area of treatment unless told to do so
- To drink plenty of water, and look after your skin properly
These few rules will help reduce swelling and give the best possible results.
When Will You See Final Results?
Although there are immediate changes, the results are mostly appreciated within one to two weeks from the treatment day. Swelling and mild bruising should have subsided by this stage and the filler to have settled naturally with the tissue.
Durability of the outcome depends on the type of filler used, site of treatment, and individual metabolism. Hyaluronic acid based fillers have a lifespan of between 6 months and in excess of a year in many cases.
Final Thoughts
This first experience of having dermal fillers can be incredibly exciting as it brings you one step closer to achieving the look you desire. Knowledge of what to expect from the beginning will put your mind at ease, making your treatment process even more enjoyable.
From your initial consultation to enjoying your results dermal filler treatments are designed to give you a natural and beautiful result with little downtime. Selecting a qualified professional, following all after care instructions, and understanding your expectations will make your treatment a positive experience and give you stunning results that boost your confidence.
Whether you are considering fuller lips, higher cheekbones or a rejuvenated appearance, knowing what to expect will make the process even smoother when going for your first appointment with your practitioner.
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