Dermal fillers
Dermal fillers are commonly used to achieve a rejuvenated look.
Used to treat:
- Loss of or little lip volume
- Sagging cheeks
- Heavy naso-labial folds
- Jowling
- Lower face lines (‘accordion’ lines)
- Sagging brows
Many of the visible signs of ageing are caused by a loss of volume in our faces. As we age, diminished fat pads and natural bone loss in our faces combine with a reduction in the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid in the skin. This causes our skin to gradually lose its turgor (firmness), causing it to sag. This sagging is the root of many common aesthetic concerns, including heavy naso-labial folds, jowling, ‘marionette’ lines, lip lines and diminishing lip volume.
How do dermal fillers work?
Dermal fillers treat these concerns with the injection of small amounts of smooth gel called hyaluronic acid (HA). This restores the volume of the skin, removing its tendency to sag and effectively treating larger wrinkles and skin folds of the face. Lip treatments in particular have aesthetically rewarding effects for women of all ages – the dream of wearing that red lipstick is not out of reach!
We use the safest and most advanced dermal fillers. Dermal fillers are administered via small injections by a qualified, highly trained registered nurse.
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring complex sugar and is naturally found in human skin, where it assists in skin hydration as it traps and holds moisture. Consequently, the allergic reaction rate is very low. HA also combines with collagen and elastin, helping to provide the skin with structure and elasticity. The product also contains a local anaesthetic, which helps to minimise discomfort during administration.
Results can be seen immediately. It is important to note, however, that the product attracts water, and best results are seen 2-4 weeks post-treatment. The effects of dermal fillers last up to 24 months.
Do dermal fillers have side effects?
Side effects such as bruising, swelling and discomfort are common and usually resolve within a week post-treatment. It is also common for lumps and bumps to be felt after treatment, however these will also dissipate within a week.
Do dermal fillers require downtime?
The procedure can take between 15-60 minutes, depending on the areas treated and the amount of treatment required. For example, lip treatment can take 15-30 minutes.
You can resume normal activities as soon as you leave the clinic, however the potential for bruising may need to be considered if there are any pending social commitments on your agenda.
Postoperative Care
IN HOSPITAL
You will wake after your surgery with dressings over your surgical site/s. Depending on the nature of the procedure you may also wake up with drainage tubes coming from your surgical site. These are removed with little discomfort when Dr Timms feels they are ready to be removed after your surgery. Nurses looking after you are trained to ensure that your recovery is smooth and that you are as comfortable as possible postoperatively. Our clinic nurse is always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have whether you are recovering at home or within the hospital setting.
Dr Timms undertakes regular ward rounds, so he will be monitoring you very closely postoperatively.
Your anaesthetist will have prescribed medication for you to keep you comfortable – you will have pain relief medication prescribed for you for discharge also.
POST OP APPOINTMENTS
An appointment will be made for you to be reviewed by Dr Timms nurse in the rooms 7-10 days after your surgery. This appointment is usually arranged for you at your consultation appointment with Dr Timms. Sometimes it is arranged by the nursing staff that discharge you from hospital. This depends on the nature of your procedure and the duration of your stay in hospital.
WHAT TO WEAR
A soft surgical grade compression garment is usually indicated for breast, body and some facial procedures. These garments are to be worn for 24/7 for six weeks and can be removed for showering. These are specialised garments and we will advise you where to purchase these garments, how to wear the garments and what type you require when you book your procedure with Dr Timms. Many garments are claimable via your private health insurance depending on your level of cover and whether your procedure is medical or cosmetic.
POST OPERATIVE ACTIVITY
You will need to be prepared to avoid driving for a period of anywhere between 1-3 weeks post surgery. The duration of this time depends on the nature of your surgery, medications you are taking for pain relief and your level of confidence behind the wheel post-surgery. It is advisable that you refrain from heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 6 weeks.
Most activities can be recommenced after your 6 week review with Dr Timms.
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