Blog Post

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers, often used interchangeably with the term facial fillers, are a temporary FDA-approved beauty technique used to improve the look of facial wrinkles and folds. Dermal fillers are made to mimic hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally produced by the body that promotes hydration, elasticity, and tissue repair. This leads to more natural-appearing results. These types of fillers are gradually absorbed by the body, with results lasting approximately 6-12 months.

What can I expect during the procedure?

During your appointment, after an initial consultation, we will numb the area using a thin needle and topical cream. Hyaluronic acid filler is then injected into the pre-determined site/s to achieve your desired effect. Multiple injections may be made, depending on the site, depth of the wrinkle, and the technique used.

Some visible lumps may occur temporarily after the injection. These should go away within two weeks.

Additional treatments may be necessary to achieve the look you're seeking. You must wait a minimum of two weeks before a second procedure. Periodic touch-ups can sustain your look.

What are the benefits of fillers?

While results are immediate, the final results are best seen after a 2-week healing period to allow swelling to go down.

“They are a great option for people who want to feel more confident in their appearance,” says Brooke Ibeling, ARNP, Lead Injector at Platinum Medical Spa. “Fillers let people see the effects without the long-term commitment of permanent results such as expensive surgery.”

Our lead injector, Brooke, talks about frequently asked questions related to fillers.

What are the risks of injectables? Are they safe?

While fillers are generally safe, there are a few risks. 

• Pain and bruising: temporary, can last up to two weeks post-treatment
• Filler migration: it is possible for filler to migrate to areas other than intended
• Vascular occlusion: a rare, but serious complication that would require filler to be dissolved
• Smoking: increases the risk of complications
• All injections have a risk of infection

Side-effects you may experience:

• Swelling is to be expected, but if pain or swelling is excessive, call us immediately
• Minor itching, skin peeling, or tenderness at the injection site. This should go away in a few days but may last a week or longer. Severe itching, peeling, or pain is not anticipated and should be reported immediately
• Lumps, bumps, or asymmetrical areas may be felt. Asymmetry will be managed at your 2-week follow-up

If you have concerns following your procedure, let us know.

How to care for your fillers post-treatment

• Apply a cool compress to swollen areas (avoid ice) - on 15 minutes/ off 15 minutes for the first 24 hours as needed,
• Avoid massaging/excessive touching the fill until healed,
• Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours before and after the treatment,
• Don’t exercise for 24-48 hours after the treatment,
• Don’t use a straw for 24-48 hours if you've received lip fillers.
• Avoid harsh sunlight and extreme cold until initial swelling/redness improves,
• Don’t see the dentist for two weeks unless an emergent situation arises; advise your dentist of recent filler treatment,
• No neurotoxin or other cosmetic treatments for at least 2 weeks,
• Use Tylenol, Ibuprofen/Advil as needed for discomfort – use Benadryl as needed for itching (Ibuprofen/Advil can increase risk of bruising),

Who can get fillers?

Dermal fillers are best for healthy, non-smoking individuals with realistic expectations as filler is not going to give you surgical results. All clients must be at least 22 years old and not pregnant, breastfeeding, or have keloid scarring or acne in the treatment area.

Who is not a good candidate for fillers?

Dermal fillers should not be used in patients who have experienced hypersensitivity, those with severe allergies to latex or xylocaine products (including but not limited to: xylocaine, novacaine, zylocaine, benzocaine, prilocaine, or tetracaine) and should not be used in areas with active inflammation or infections (e.g., cysts, pimples, rashes or hives).

If you live in or near Hardin County and are looking for injectable fillers near you, contact Platinum Medical Spa for a free consultation.