Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable substances used in aesthetic procedures to restore volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. They are particularly popular for their ability to address signs of aging, such as wrinkles and loss of facial volume.

Overview of Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are typically made of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid can be either naturally occurring in the body or synthetic. It is a naturally occurring sugar in the body that retains moisture and adds volume to the skin. Synthetic hyaluronic acid is widely used due to its effectiveness and safety profile.

What are the benefits and uses

Dermal fillers are utilized for various aesthetic purposes, including:

• Plumping thin lips

• Enhancing shallow contours

• Softening facial creases and wrinkles

• Improving the appearance of scars

• Restoring volume lost due to aging or medical conditions (e.g., HIV-related fat loss).

• Contouring the face in areas like jawline, chi and cheekbones.

  
  

The results of dermal filler treatments are typically visible immediately and can last from several months to a few years, depending on the type of filler used and the area treated.

What is the procedure like

The procedure for dermal fillers is generally quick, often completed in under an hour, with minimal recovery time. Most dermal fillers already have a local anesthetic in the syringe to minimize discomfort. Doctor Harisha Karpath may also choose to numb the area being injected with a topical anesthetic prior to injecting. The area is cleaned thoroughly and marked. The filler may then be injected using a thin needle to minimize discomfort or a cannula depending on the area being injected. Patients usually experience some swelling or bruising, which typically resolves within a few days. Having over two decades of experience in Ballito our practice understands that it is crucial to discuss with our patients their individual goals, the costs involved, potential risks, and the appropriate type of filler for specific needs.

How to prepare prior to the procedure

Before the procedure, our general practitioner (GP) Dr Karpath advises patients to avoid certain medications and supplements that can increase bleeding risk and bruising, such as aspirin, anti-inflammatories, fish oils and alcohol.

What do I need to do after the procedure

After treatment, applying cold packs can help reduce swelling, and patients should avoid strenuous activities for a short period to minimize complications. You are also advised to sleep on your back for 2-3 days post treatment. There should be no massaging of the areas treated unless done so by Dr Karpath post procedure. Bruising and swelling is expected but you should liaise directly with our team should any side effects arise. You should avoid any other treatments for two weeks post- treatment.

What are the possible risks or side effects of having dermal fillers

While generally safe, dermal fillers carry risks, including infection, bruising, and allergic reactions. It is essential to choose a licensed and experienced medical doctor to minimize these risks, ensure proper technique during the injection process and to be able to treat or manage theses side effects should they arise.

Complications of dermal fillers include :

• Injection Site Reactions: This includes bruising, swelling, redness, and pain at the injection site. These effects are typically temporary and resolve on their own.

• Infection: There is a risk of infection at the injection site, which can lead to more serious complications if not treated promptly.

• Lumps and Bumps: Some patients may experience palpable lumps or irregularities under the skin, which can occur due to improper injection techniques or the nature of the filler used.

• Skin Necrosis: In rare cases, fillers can inadvertently be injected into blood vessels, leading to skin necrosis (loss of skin and underlying tissue) due to disrupted blood flow. This can result in severe complications, including potential vision loss if the filler affects the vessels supplying the eyes.

• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may develop allergic reactions to the filler material, which can manifest as itching, rash, or more severe systemic reactions.

• Granulomas: These are small areas of inflammation that can occur as a reaction to the filler material. They may require medical treatment, including corticosteroids or surgical intervention.

• Asymmetry: Uneven results can occur, leading to facial asymmetry, which may necessitate additional treatment to correct.

• Delayed Reactions: Some complications may not appear until weeks or months after injection, including chronic inflammation or late allergic reactions.

• Under- or Over-Correction: There is a possibility that the desired aesthetic effect may not be achieved, leading to dissatisfaction with the results

How do I know what treatment to ask for or which filler I need

After a consultation with Dr Harisha Karpath (GP), you will be offered all the information regarding your concerns and the relevant treatment modalities available including best options with their possible costs and timeline for treatments. Dermal fillers offer a non-surgical option for facial rejuvenation, with a variety of products available to meet different aesthetic needs. We endeavor to provide the best options as advised by our doctor after careful assessment of your facial structure and tailored to your individual needs. Together with Dr Karpath, you will make a decision on commencing with your bespoke treatment plan to achieve your treatment goals.