Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to add volume, soften wrinkles and folds, and refine facial contours. They are a popular non-surgical way to restore a fresher, more youthful look.
Types of Dermal Fillers
- Hyaluronic acid (HA): A naturally occurring molecule that hydrates and plumps. HA fillers are temporary, lasting around 6 to 18 months.
- Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA): Slightly firmer; can last up to 2 years.
- Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA): Stimulates your own collagen and can last up to 5 years.
What Fillers Can Treat
- Wrinkles and lines: Around the mouth, nose and eyes, including nasolabial folds and marionette lines.
- Lost volume: Restores fullness to cheeks, temples and lips.
- Scars: Smooths the appearance of some depressed scars.
- Contouring: Enhances the jawline, chin and cheeks.
How They Work and How Long They Last
Fillers replace lost volume — a major cause of wrinkles — and some types stimulate collagen for firmer, more elastic skin. Treatment usually takes under an hour, and results last from 6 months to several years depending on the filler. They are not permanent, so re-treatment is needed to maintain results.
Common Treatment Areas
Cheeks: HA fillers restore youthful fullness, with results lasting 12 to 18 months.
Lips: Add volume, define the border and smooth fine lines, with a natural feel.
Nasolabial folds: Fillers plump the creases from nose to mouth to soften their appearance.
Benefits
- Non-surgical, with little downtime
- Targeted, natural-looking results
- Quick procedure, usually under an hour
- Mostly temporary, reversible side effects
Risks and Side Effects
Common, temporary effects include swelling, redness, bruising and mild tenderness; lumps or slight asymmetry can also occur. Less common but serious risks include infection, allergic reaction and — rarely — vascular occlusion, where filler blocks a blood vessel and can lead to tissue damage. Choosing a board-certified, experienced injector who uses approved fillers greatly reduces these risks.
Is It Right for You?
If you want to improve your skin without surgery and explore anti-aging options, fillers may suit you. Consult a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to choose the right filler and understand the risks. Explore in-clinic filler treatments to learn more.
Trusted Resources
For consultations, visit Derma & Dental Clinic in Bahria Town, Lahore, or book online at Derma.pk. Phone: 0304 1115000.
