Dermal Fillers work by replacing lost volume in the treated area, ie. they ‘lift’ lines and wrinkles and can also be used to plump lips. The effects are instantly visible. Modern fillers are mostly made from completely synthetic materials which do not cause lumps, bumps or side effects caused by older dermal fillers. Modern fillers contain a local anaesthetic (Lidocaine), thus making treatment far less painful. A local anaesthetic cream can also be applied prior to injection.
The majority are made from Hyaluronic acid, which is a substance which also occurs naturally in the body. It lasts up to a year and is eventually broken down naturally by the body. Patients will not wake up one morning and find it has suddenly worn off; rather the product is gradually reabsorbed. It is also believed that, over time, the product gradually stimulates new, naturally occurring Hyaluronic acid in the body. Many patients state that having had dermal fillers for several years, their wrinkles have never returned to the depth they were prior to their first treatment.
