Dermal fillers are non-surgical procedures in which gel-like substances are injected with fine needles into areas that have lost volume. As we age, the amount of collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin in the skin decreases; this leads to more pronounced lines and a sunken appearance in the face. Fillers aim to replace lost volume and balance the facial contours.
Which filler materials are used?
| Hyaluronic acid | Autologous fat (the person's own fat) | |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Produced in a laboratory | Taken from the person's own body |
| Application | Direct injection | First fat harvesting (a surgical procedure), filtering, then injection |
| Effect | Adds hydration and fullness to the area | Fills the area that has lost volume |
| Longevity | Usually 6-12 months | Longer, depending on the proportion of fat that survives |
| Reversibility | Can be dissolved with an enzyme | Cannot be dissolved |
Which areas are treated?
- Defining the cheekbones and supporting midface volume
- Lines running from the side of the nose to the corner of the mouth (nasolabial)
- Deep lines running from the corner of the mouth to the chin
- Lip shaping and volume adjustment
- Defining the chin and jawline
- Hollows in the temple area
- Under-eye hollows (an area that requires experience and carries risk)
How is the procedure performed?
Before the procedure, a numbing cream is applied to the area to reduce discomfort. The filler is injected into the target layer with a fine needle or cannula. Depending on the area treated, it takes 15-30 minutes and you can return to daily life the same day. Swelling and, rarely, bruising may occur in the first few days; the final appearance usually settles within 1-2 weeks.
What should I pay attention to after the procedure?
- Do not massage the treated area for the first 24-48 hours
- Turkish baths, saunas, solariums and intense exercise should be postponed for a few days
- Alcohol and medicines with a blood-thinning effect increase the likelihood of bruising
- It is recommended not to apply make-up on the first day
- In case of unexpected pain, colour change or marked swelling, contact your physician without delay
Risks and who should not have fillers
When performed by a physician, with approved products and under suitable conditions, fillers have a good safety profile; however, they are not risk-free. Swelling, bruising, asymmetry, palpable firmness and, rarely, an allergic reaction may occur. The most serious but very rare risk is the filler blocking a blood vessel — this is why it is important that the procedure is performed by a physician with a thorough command of facial anatomy. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme when necessary.
Situations in which fillers are not used: pregnancy and breastfeeding, active infection or an unhealed wound in the treatment area, known allergy to the ingredients, uncontrolled chronic disease and bleeding disorders.
For other non-surgical procedures, you can see the non-surgical aesthetics and skin rejuvenation pages, and for an assessment, you can contact the clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are lip fillers done and how long does the procedure take?
In most cases, a filler containing hyaluronic acid is injected into the lip tissue with a fine needle or cannula. A numbing cream is applied beforehand to reduce discomfort. The procedure takes about 15-30 minutes and you can return to daily life the same day. Swelling and, rarely, bruising may occur in the first few days; the final appearance usually settles within 1-2 weeks.
How long do lip fillers last?
The effect of hyaluronic acid fillers usually lasts 6-12 months. The duration varies depending on the density of the product used, the amount injected, the person's metabolic rate, age and habits such as smoking. Because the lips are a mobile area, the filler may be absorbed faster here than in some other areas. Longevity varies from person to person; no exact duration can be given.
Are dermal fillers risky?
When performed under suitable conditions, by a physician and with approved products, fillers have a good safety profile; however, they are not risk-free. Swelling, bruising, asymmetry, palpable firmness and, rarely, an allergic reaction may occur. The most serious but very rare risk is the filler blocking a blood vessel; this is why it is important that the procedure is performed by a physician with knowledge of anatomy. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme when necessary.
What should I pay attention to after a filler treatment?
For the first 24-48 hours, the treated area should not be massaged, and excessive heat (Turkish bath, sauna, solarium) and intense exercise should be avoided. Alcohol and medicines with a blood-thinning effect increase the likelihood of bruising. It is recommended not to apply make-up in the first few days. In case of unexpected pain, colour change or marked swelling, you should contact your physician without delay.
Can I have fillers during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
No. Cosmetic fillers are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding; the procedure is postponed because there are insufficient data showing its safety during these periods. Likewise, the procedure is not performed if there is an active infection, an unhealed wound or an uncontrolled chronic disease in the treatment area.