As we age, the amount of elastin, collagen and hyaluronic acid we produce decreases and the human skin becomes looser, weaker and drier. The fat pads of our face also decrease in volume giving less support and stability to the overlying skin.  Hence, the appearance of jowls, nose to mouth lines, deep lines and wrinkles and so forth.  Dermal fillers are a multifunctioning treatment and can be used to restore areas of volume loss, smooth contours and reduce deep lines and wrinkles.  With the development of new techniques we can lift and rejuvenate the face. They can also be used to enhance facial features such as the cheeks, lips, chin and jawline thereby improving facial proportions and creating a more contoured and harmonious appearance. 

Dermal filler treatments are not painful except for the little sting you may experience when the needle enters your skin.

Dermal filler treatments are safe and must be administered by an experienced medical practitioner to reduce the risk of side effects such as redness, bruising and swelling, also to manage any complications that may occur.  Only high-quality dermal fillers with excellent safety records are used.  Apart from the most common side effects mentioned above, other serious complications that may arise include granuloma formation, anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), tissue necrosis, migration of the product and in the VERY RARE case blindness. It is often advisable you stick to our post-procedure recommendations.  Dr Sall would be on hand for any advice and management of any such rare complication should they arise. 

Results are seen immediately. However, initially the injected areas would be slightly swollen and red this tends to settle over 2 weeks.

The duration varies and is dependent on the skin type, the filler used, quantity, the area which is being treated, age of the patient and the genetics of the individual. If a client intends to sustain the effect of dermal filler treatments, a follow-up treatment is recommended by Dr Sall.

While some clients may experience minor swelling or bruises, others may not. The injected area can be a little tender after injection but gradually eases off as time progresses.

Dr Sall will usually schedule a post-procedure consultation after two weeks and is always available to answer any questions or queries the client may have from the moment the procedure is completed.  It is essential post-procedure recommendations are followed. 

Even though research is not clear on the possible risks to pregnant or breastfeeding mothers, we advise that women in these groups should not undergo dermal filler treatments.

• Acne scarring: Dermal filler treatments are an excellent non-surgical way to treat acne scarring as it improves the appearance as well as the texture of the skin.
• Dark circles / sunken eyes / tired looking eyes / eye bags: can be caused by a deep depression running from the nose and around the under eye which can become more noticeable with age as the skin becomes thin and the fat pad more noticeable. The tear trough dermal filler treatments are an excellent way to reduce the depression and lift the area, transforming a patient’s face from tired and sunken to awake, fresh and rejuvenated. 

Before the treatment

• Do have realistic ideas of what you would like to achieve. 
• Do come ready for a little discomfort which you may feel from the needle / cannula entering the skin. 
• Do wait for two weeks to experience the full effects of treatment. 
• Do not have the treatment immediately before a big event where you would like to look your best – give adequate time to experience maximum treatment results and for any possible complications to be managed.
• Do not take alcohol and avoid tea / coffee / herbal tea / salty foods for 24 hours before treatment to reduce risk of bleeding and bruising. 
• If you have ever experienced or suffer from facial cold sores, there is a risk that the needle punctures can contribute to the eruption of cold sores. Please let it be known if you are prone to cold sores. 
• Homeopathic remedies such as oral and topical Arnica can be taken pre and post treatment to reduce the risk and severity of bruising. 
• Avoid waxing, bleaching, tweezing, or hair removal cream on the area to be treated for three days prior
• Please arrive for your treatment with a washed face and no makeup.

After the treatment

• Redness and swelling are normal. Bruising may also be visible.
• Depending on the area treated and products used, a feeling of firmness maybe felt for one to two weeks after treatment. Over time, the area will soften and settle. 
• Ice or cold gel pack can be applied to the areas treated (avoiding pressure) to reduce swelling and the potential for bruising. 
• Avoid touching, wearing makeup, or applying any skin products for at least 12 hours. 
• Avoid exercise or strenuous activities for 48 hours. You may resume other normal activities/routines immediately.
• Avoid alcohol consumption for 24 hours after the treatment.
• Avoid excessive heat in the form of hot showers, sauna, steam rooms and swimming pools for two weeks post treatment. 
• Avoid applying excessive pressure on the treated area for two to three days. Gently pat skin dry with a soft towel after washing and be gentle when applying makeup.
• Avoid dental, facial appointments and chemical treatments for the first two weeks after treatment.
• Avoid a spray tan or tanning beds and strong exposure to direct sunlight for two weeks. 
• Following treatment, the area can feel tender from the injection. Mild analgesia can be taken for any discomfort.
• Following treatment, the area injected may feel slightly itchy for 7-14 days. Non-prescription anti-histamines may reduce the itching. Only take medications if it is safe for you to do so.   
• Homeopathic remedies such as oral and topical Arnica can be taken pre and post treatment to reduce the risk and severity of bruising. 

ALL before and after treatment instructions should be followed to minimise the risks of infections, bleeding, swelling, bruising and product migration into undesirable areas.