Dermal Fillers: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Dermal fillers: beginners guide cover

Table of Contents

Introduction

You’re scrolling your insta feed, you see photos of girls or influencers with pointy chin, full cheeks and forehead. ‘Getting fillers done’ is no longer the secret it once was. You know they’ve got some injectable work done on their faces, and you wish to look as sharp as these ‘It’ girls.  If you don’t know where to start with – here’s a simple guide for you to keep in mind before making the decision.

Understanding Dermal Fillers

There are many cosmetic injectables available in the market thus it is extremely important to educate yourself on the various options out there. Fillers are only ONE out of the many injectables and there’s even more variety when it comes to the different types of fillers. 

Fillers sit under the skin to provide volume and support in multiple areas of the face – like lips and cheeks. 

The most common fillers are made of Hyaluronic Acid, a natural substance in our body that holds 1000s times its weight in water. Brands: Restylane, Juvederm, Belotero, Revigance etc. Despite the fact that they’re all made of the same Hyaluronic Acid, there are differences in how the particles are linked together, resulting in different outcomes. The size particles are also different and suitable for filling different ares of the face. 

Others are non hyaluronic acid which feature collagen stimulating ingredients such as Poly L Lactic Acid, Calcium Hydroxyapatite of different consistencies and typically last longer. Brands such as Radiesse, Sculptra, Belafill etc. When injected in strategic places in the face, it triggers the body’s natural response to produce collagen, which provides you with a much longer lasting result. 

What to Ask your doctor?

 Ask for the brand of filler and why it was chosen over another option. I usually mix and match and explain to my patients the importance of using fillers of different particle sizes to layer under the skin to achieve the most natural outcome.

What to do before and after dermal filler injection?

While injectables are minimally invasive, there are a few important notes to keep in mind pre and post injections. Bruising and swelling are common side effects. Hence, it is advisable to stop taking aspirin or any form of blood thinners 1 week before and after the procedure to reduce the likelihood of bruising.

Avoid supplements, including St. John’s Wort, Gingko biloba, primrose oil, garlic, ginseng, and Vitamin E. Also, I usually advise my patients to refrain from activities like sauna, intense workouts and alcohol consumption after getting any injectable procedure done.

Expections and how long does it last?

Bringing out pictures of celebrities isn’t particularly helpful. I’d usually get my patients to show me a photo of themselves that they like – it is a more realistic point of reference. For me to enhance your natural features and for you to manage your expectations of the outcome. 

As for the longevity of fillers results, it depends on the products used, volume injected and also treatment areas.

Knowing who’s behind the needle

With so many people offering injectables these days at saloons, spas and even hotel rooms, I can’t stress the importance of having someone with proper credentials to be performing this injectable procedure for you. Be sure to make sure the doctor is board certified and well trained with injectables. Don’t rush, book for a consultation first to discuss your desires and expectations, understand the budget before you go for the actual procedure. 

Extra tip: Be very wary of superdeals advertisements. When it comes to cosmetic injections, you usually get what you pay for. A RM500 filler syringe might end you up on another episode of botched job. 

dermal fillers side effects

It’s easy for clients to confuse side effects to reactions, so it’s extremely important to understand what side effects can be expected. 

It’s completely normal to experience a little bit of discomfort, redness and bruising after the procedure. We minimise discomfort by applying an anaesthetic (numbing) cream before treatment. We also provide good quality fillers that contain a pre-mixed local anaesthetic. 

Do consult Kaiteki’s certified aesthetic doctor to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for Dermal Fillers!

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