By Amerley Ollennu
As dermal fillers become an easily accessible aesthetic treatment, and a very normal part of our beautification regimes, you may well consider giving the injectable a go. And since it’s able to contour, define, plump, smooth and reshape the face, we don’t blame you. But before you try dermal filler for yourself, here’s what our Etre Vous Experts want you to know…
“Make sure your practitioner has medical qualifications and is registered to practice medicine in the UK. Complications are uncommon when administered by an experienced medical professional, however, if administered by non-medical professionals there is always the risk that mistakes can be made, at best asymmetry, or over filling with a non-permanent filler – which can be dissolved. At worst injecting into an artery causing necrosis, and even blindness. Not to mention if any complications through no fault of your practitioner arise, they should be able to treat and prescribe medication to resolve the problem.”
Dr Raquel Amado, Director at Dr Raquel Skin & Medical Cosmetics
“Minimise alcohol intake for two days prior to your treatment, as alcohol may thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising. And avoid the likes of anti-inflammatory medications (if advised by your doctor) and herbal supplements such as St John’s wort, ginkgo biloba, vitamin E, ginseng and garlic as these will thin the blood and also increase the risk of bruising.”
Dr Unnati Desai, Medical Director at Skinfluencer
“Consultations pre-treatment should not be skipped. This time allows your practitioner to understand your goals, and allows them to share what is realistic in terms of end results. It also gives you the chance to ask any questions you may have, and feel comfortable with your chosen practitioner. It’s also a good opportunity for your practitioner to share all important pre and post treatment do’s and don’ts.”
Dr Raquel Amado, Director at Dr Raquel Skin & Medical Cosmetics
“Ensure you are well and not suffering with an infection or flare up of an autoimmune disease around the time of your treatment. If you have had either of these in the run up to your dermal filler appointment, it is best to postpone your treatment for two weeks until your immune system is fully restored. Although it is rare, an immunogenic reaction to the filler can occur if your immune system is fighting off an infection, or there is a flare up of an autoimmune disease.”
Dr Unnati Desai, Medical Director at Skinfluencer
“How long your dermal filler lasts depends on what your dermal filler is made of. The most popular type of fillers are hyaluronic acid based, and they last between 6-12 months. Calcium hydroxylapatite (a mineral found in our bones) based fillers last up to 18 months, biodegradable synthetic material poly-L-lactic acid last up to two years and polymethylmethacrylate beads are permanent. It’s important to ask what filler your practitioner is using and to ensure you’re comfortable with their choice.”
Amerley Ollennu, Etre Vous Beauty Editor
Raquel Amado, Director
Dr. Raquel Skin & Medical Cosmetics, founded by Dr. Raquel Amado, is a leading clinic in aesthetics. Raquel graduated...
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