As cosmetic surgery becomes increasingly popular, a demand for quick, non-surgical procedures as part of the anti-ageing maket has been rising as well. According to Statista, by 2022 global anti-ageing market sales are set to reach a colossal $199.5 million—up from $89.7 million in 2017. It’s no surprise then that the popularity of dermal fillers—injections administered to plump skin and iron out wrinkles—is increasing. A dermal filler treatment can take as little as 30 minutes to complete, so it very much fits into the ‘lunchtime lift’ category. But what should you be thinking about before you go for the needle?
Temp to perm
Dermal fillers address a very real problem—as our skin gets older, it loses elasticity, causing wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. Fillers will reverse this appearance, creating a smoother and less lined look.
There are two types of dermal filler—temporary and permanent. Collagen type fillers will give an effect for three to four months; hyaluronic acid works for around four to six months; calcium hydroxylapatite about a year and a half; poly-L-lactic acid can remain effective for up to two years; and polymethylmethacrylate beads (PMMA) is a lifelongoption. But dermal fillers can’t correct the other effect of loss of skin elasticity, which is a sagging jawline.
See Also: Nip & Tuck: Cosmetic Surgery
Side effects
Before a dermal filler treatment, an anaesthetic cream might be used first to numb your skin. Injections are given around the area of your face being treated, which is then massaged.
The procedure may feel a little uncomfortable, but should not be painful. The treatment usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on the area being treated. Afterwards, the affected area may be a bit red, sore and swollen. Any swelling or bruising should settle down in a few days.
Your practitioner should advise you how to reduce side effects. This includes not wearing make-up immediately after the procedure and avoiding alcohol, coffee and the sun.
As with most medical procedures, there are risks associated with the use of dermal fillers, ranging from rashes, swelling and bruising to infection and blocking of blood vessels with potentially serious consequences.
For all those reasons its vital that if you are considering dermal fillers you go to a reputable practitioner. Check the person doing your dermal fillers is on a register to show they meet set standards in training, skill and insurance.
