As we age, fat compartments and bone structures of the face atrophy in a very certain order. In combination with reduced muscle and skin elasticity, this leads to a downward pull of the mid and lower face, wrinkle and fold formation, loss of contours and an overall tired and aged appearance. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the skin. It is the key to youthful skin as it attracts and holds water, which helps keep the skin plump and hydrated. Along with elastin and collagen, HA depletes as we age. Dermal fillers are an injectable gel made from synthesised HA. Dermal fillers are used to disguise these volumetric changes by replacing lost volume and lifting sagging skin. This gives you a rejuvenated and youthful appearance.

Results can be seen immediately post dermal filler treatments. Swelling may occur therefore it is recommended to wait 4 weeks for optimal results. All patients are encouraged to attend a four-week follow-up appointment to assess that desired results have been attained. Some patients with increased skin laxity and volume loss may require additional treatments for desired aesthetics goals to be achieved.

Dermal fillers last approximately last 9-12 months with some products lasting as long as 18 months. The longevity of dermal fillers may vary depending of the product used and individual response to the product.

At Enhancing Aesthetics Australia we treat the following areas with dermal filler

·      Lip enhancement

·      Cheek augmentation

·      Chin augmentation

·      Tear trough

·      Jawline

·      Nasolabial folds

·      Marionette lines

·      Perioral lines

Please be advised that certain areas may need to be treated in combination for optimal results.

Slight discomfort can occur with any injection. Very fine needles are used for dermal filler injections therefore is it relatively painless. Our premium quality dermal filler products contain lignocaine, which is a local anaesthetic. This helps to reduce discomfort. To further reduce discomfort a topical aesthetic cream can be applied where required.

Individual results may vary. The face is very vascularised. Although significant bruising is uncommon, minimal bruising can occur. A consultation is required to determine the risk of bruising. Those who consume prescribed blood-thinning medications and vitamins such as fish oil are at increased risk of bruising. Please consult your practitioner before ceasing any medications. Alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of bruising.

There is minimal downtime with dermal fillers although some side effects may include the follow:

·      Redness at injection site

·      Bruising

·      Swelling

These symptoms usually subside in a couple of days. Different areas of the face may swell or bruise more than others such as the lips. More severe, although uncommon, side effects include severe bruising and swelling. Other side effects can be dependent on the technique and product used. A full list of possible side effects is discussed during your consultation. During this time you are assessed for risk factors that may contribute to potential side effects.

In Australia there are strict regulatory laws that do not permit us to advertise brand names. This is why we refer to our products as ‘dermal fillers’. During your consultation you are informed of what product you are receiving. At Enhancing Aesthetics Australia we only use premium quality products from leading brands.

Although relatively small doses are used for cosmetic purposes, there are certain circumstances where dermal fillers are not appropriate. Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding or attempting to fall pregnant should not receive dermal fillers. Although there is little research that has been done on this, here at Enhancing Aesthetics Australia we will not take that risk.

Patients who have certain medical conditions or take certain medications may also not be suitable to receive dermal fillers. A thorough consultation is required to assess individual suitability.

Your aftercare requirements are discussed at length during your consultation. All of our patients are given an aftercare card post treatments to take home for reference. Please note that aftercare instructions are given to you to ensure optimal results from your treatment. Some of those instructions include the following:

·    Avoid touching the area for 24 hours

·    No makeup for 24 hours

·    No strenuous exercise for 24 hours

·    Avoid excess alcohol for 24 hours

·    No facial massages or treatments for two weeks

·    Do I need to do anything before my dermal filler appointment?

Generally there is no specific preparation required for dermal filler injections. Please DO NOT wear make-up to your appointment as this will need to be removed and can hold up your treatment and appointments following yours. It is recommended that you follow an at home skin care regime. This will optimise your results. If you feel faint with needles, please ensure you eat prior to your appointment.

A consultation is required to determine this. An assessment needs to be conducted to see if it is a muscle problem or a volume problem. Anti-wrinkle injections are effective at reducing dynamic wrinkles but they cannot treat everything. Dermal fillers are a fantastic option for treating volume loss and skin texture. Often a combination of anti-wrinkle and dermal fillers is required.

The cost of your treatment is dependent on the dose required and number of areas treated. For more information book in your complimentary consultation. Alternatively you can contact us at admin@enhancingaesthetics.com.au to receive information applicable to your aesthetic goal.

Although our injector is qualified to perform your treatments, the products used are schedule 4 substances and therefore require a script from a doctor or cosmetic nurse practitioner. The script is then valid for 12 months before renewal of the script is required.

Individual results may vary. All clients require a consultation prior to cosmetic injectables. This can be done in the same session as your treatment. As these results are not permanent, repeated sessions every 12 to 18 months are required to maintain results.

For further information, book in your complementary consultation today. Alternatively you can fill out the contact form or email admin@enhancingaesthetics.com.