As we age our skin begins to show the effects of time, especially on our face. With repetitive expressions like frowning and smiling or exposure to the environment, such as pollution and sun damage we develop wrinkles that become present even when we are not making the expressions. (update image – see Ros)
Dermal fillers and muscle relaxants are both popular choices to help soften these lines and create a more youthful look. However, they both work in very different ways. Products such as Botox block the action of nerves and the subsequent muscle movement which causes wrinkles, and Dermal fillers help to re-contour and add volume to the face.
Key areas that dermal fillers can help with are:
- Tear troughs – the ‘tired, dark circle, eye bag’ look
- Nasolabial lines- Nose to Mouth lines
- Forehead Lines
- Frown Furrows between the brows – the number 11s
- Jowls
- Lipstick Lines
- Sunken cheeks
- Crows Feet
- Sunken temples
- Small lips
- Imbalance of features such as small chins or lack of cheek-bone definition
- Boney, aged hands
- Nose shape
Dermal fillers are available as a temporary or permanent treatment and the quantity or brand of filler used depends on the individual’s needs and the affect they want to achieve. Generally, fillers are made from a blend of Hyaluronic Acid. Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the skin but diminishes significantly as we get older. At Radiance MediSpa we use non-permanent fillers such as Restylane, Emervel, Juvéderm, Radiesse and Amalian. These are the ones most widely used by plastic surgeons and Aesthetic practitioners and usually contain a local anaesthetic for a more comfortable treatment.
Results are immediate and can last from 3 months to a year, with deeper cheek fillers lasting up to 18 months. Interestingly subsequent treatments seem to last longer. If you’re considering Dermal Fillers, select a practice with lots of experience and ensure you receive a full facial assessment consultation beforehand. Also do not over look the results that can be obtained using cosmeceutical and prescription grade skin care products such as ZO medical.
Side effects can include initial bruising and tenderness but this subsides within a few days.