Treatments

Frequenlty Asked Questions

FAQs

Facial Fillers

Can fillers be dissolved or removed?
When fillers are used in experienced and talented hands they can provide amazing natural results. They shouldn’t really need to be dissolved unless it’s medically necessary.

Hyaluronic acid fillers, once injected can take around 6-12 months to dissolve naturally which is down to an enzyme in the body. If you have fillers and decide you really don’t like them they can be reversed by using an enzyme called Hyaluronidase. This can be injected directly into the lips or other facial area and can take effect almost straight away or up to 4 days. However, there is a very small risk of an allergic reaction which must be considered before carrying out the procedure. I would always advise my patients to allow their fillers to wear off naturally if possible.

How can you achieve a natural look with filler?
Dermal fillers are one of the most popular types of non-surgical procedure. Worldwide, over 10 million procedures are carried out per year and the number is rising.

Unfortunately, the media is filled with celebrities described as having ‘trout pout’, ‘duck lips’, ‘pillow face’ and looking puffy. Dermal fillers do not need to have these labels when the procedure is done correctly and artistically.

Dermal fillers can help to contour the cheeks, enhance the jawline with an attractive angle and give your lips the perfect pout.

A good, natural filler result starts with a correct, detailed assessment. Problems arise when a practitioner overfills the face. Going beyond the point of beautification can end in the ‘pillow face’ appearance. Firstly, your medical practitioner will take time to assess your face, giving a thorough assessment as part of your consultation before undertaking any procedure. The dimensions of the face will be assessed, working out where to place the filler to replace lost volume.

The art to a natural look is also choosing the right dermal filler. Some fillers are of a much greater quality than others. A good medical practitioner will know the different qualities of each type of filler, using the correct type for the correct area of the face to achieve the set goal.
Filler placement is also very important in achieving a natural look. Every medical practitioner should have the techniques, experience and skill to achieve perfect placement of the filler and therefore providing a natural result.

Which areas of the face can be treated with filler?
Facial fillers can be used in most areas of the face to contour, lift, project, define and refresh as well as smooth and lift lines and wrinkles.</>

The below are the areas of the face that can be treated by filler.

    1.     Lips. Different types of filler and different volumes can be used to add definition, hydration and volume.
    2.     Nasolabial lines (nose to mouth lines)
    3.     Perioral lines (vertical lip lines/smoker’s lines)
    4.   Cheeks. The best place to begin with fillers which can improve lower face aging.
    5.     Chin. Filler can be used to augment a receding chin which can help to balance the side profile and treat volume loss
    6. ccTear Trough. A filler with a thinner consistency can be used to improve hollows under the eyes.
    7.      Marionette lines (downturned lines at the corners of the lips)
    8.     Jawline. To improve a jawline lacking definition.
    9.    Temples. This is a lesser known treatment area for fillers but can really improve temporal hollows and provide an effective lift in the midface/eye area.
    10.    Eyebrows. To aid in lifting the brows for a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
    11.    Nose reshaping. Also called a Liquid Rhinoplasty to improve the side profile for beautification.
How long does filler last?
This really depends on the type of filler, the person receiving the filler and the area of product placement.  Hyaluronic acid is the most popular filler used. This substance exists naturally in the skin. The gel-like material typically lasts anywhere from 6-12 months or longer. (Although 3-9 months in the lips). The material gradually breaks down and the body naturally absorbs the particles.

Factors affecting the longevity of  dermal filler can  include:

      • metabolism
      •  exercise
      • smoking
Are there different types of filler?
There are a few types of filler on the market such as collagen filler, hyaluronic acid filler, fat injections and more permanent fillers. Hyaluronic acid fillers are not permanent and have no lasting effects, providing the most natural results. They are the most popular fillers and are considered to be safer. There are also several types and brands of hyaluronic acid filler.
How much does filler cost?
The cost of dermal filler really depends where and who you go to for your treatment. Prices and price structures can vary. Many practitioners charge per syringe but you may also find fillers charged per area treated.
Which brand of filler is best?
Hyaluronic Acid fillers are not permanent and have no lasting effects, providing the most natural results. Most medical practitioners stick to one brand such as Restylane, Juvederm or Teosyal. The patient will be in good hands with these brands as they offer a variety of different fillers with varying densities, molecule size and hyaluronic acid concentration as well as many year’s worth of medical research behind them to ensure their safety.

There are over 200 brands of dermal fillers on the market and with increasing demand in aesthetic medicine new brands are emerging. However, these are released rapidly onto the market and we must question whether these have undergone any proper medical testing and inspection. There can also be imitation products.

If you come across cheap offers for fillers that are not coming from a medical professional, then it is likely that you’re dealing with brands that are not of the highest quality, or imitation products bought online.

What is filler made from and is it safe?
Fillers are made from Hyaluronic Acid. This is a natural component in our skin which has the ability to attract up to 1000 times its own weight in water. It’s main task is to hydrate the skin as well as reinforce collagen and restore elasticity. The body will metabolise the hyaluronic acid gel and in time it will gradually wear off.

Because hyaluronic acid is a natural component, it is considered to be safe. In fact, it is safer than the older forms of permanent or collagen filler. Of course, there are side effects as with any injectable treatment. The most common side effects include swelling and bruising which normally subside in a couple of days.

How much filler do you need for different areas?
The amount of filler all depends on the person and the indication for treatment. It is often necessary to do the treatment in stages to ensure safety in treatment and provide a natural look. Generally 1-2mls can be used per area per treatment.
What is the difference in results between 0.5ml and 1ml lip filler?
This depends on the type of filler used and the effect to be achieved. Results can also vary from person to person. 1ml on one person will look entirely different to another person who has had the same 1ml.

In terms of liquid volume, to give you an idea, 0.5ml is 1/10 of a teaspoon. See the below image as a guide.

Is having filler painful?
Generally, fillers are not painful. However, certain areas of the face can be more sensitive than others. Many brands of filler contain anaesthetic. Many practitioners often use a numbing cream for areas such as the lips which can be more sensitive.
Which method of injecting is best, cannula or needle?
Traditionally, dermal fillers have been administered to the face via a needle. One of the main issues with needles is the likelihood of swelling and bruising post-treatment. Once the needle is inserted there is a chance that it will pierce the blood vessels underneath the skin, resulting in a bruise. Whilst medical practitioners can take various measures and use their knowledge of facial anatomy to minimize the risk of bruising, even the most experienced of practitioners can’t guarantee that a patient definitely won’t bruise.

In contrast, a cannula does not pose the same risks due to its blunt tip. Whilst a small needle is used to make the initial entry point, once the cannula is inserted into the skin, it is less likely to pass through the blood vessels. Instead, it simply pushes past the vessels causing less trauma underneath the skin and therefore less chance of bruising post-treatment.

A cannula is significantly longer than a needle and is more flexible, allowing for smoother, continuous delivery of filler in areas such as the jawline. While many practitioners see the flexibility and length of a cannula as an advantage, some also see it as a disadvantage. A small needle often allows for more control and accuracy, especially in areas that require a great deal of precision. Ultimately, there are benefits to both methods.

Can lip filler correct asymmetry?
Facial asymmetry is common. Most of us have it and don’t even notice it in ourselves or others. Asymmetry can be prominent or barely noticeable, making our features unique or causing loss of confidence. Fillers can be used to help correct or improve asymmetry. However, perfect symmetry is difficult to achieve and cannot be guaranteed. That being said – depending on the extent of asymmetry, fillers can really help.
When shouldn’t I have filler?
There are certain contraindications to having filler:

      • Pregnancy and breastfeeding – There are no studies evaluating the safety of fillers in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, therefore those women should avoid fillers. It’s better to be safe than sorry in this instance.
      • Viral, bacterial or fungal infections at the site of injection – If you have any active infections you’ll need to avoid filler in these areas.
      • Allergies to any of the substances in fillers – Some dermal fillers contain lidocaine which some people may be allergic to.
    What happens during a consultation?

    A consultation is the best place to start when considering any type of aesthetic treatment. A dermal filler consultation is a thorough discussion with a medical professional who will take the time to analyse your skin/face/treatment area, go through your medical history and discuss your desired results. After your consultation you should feel confident and well informed about your treatment.

    What happens after my treatment?
    Dermal fillers work instantly so you’ll see the results straight away and although you may notice some swelling and possible bruising this should usually subside within a week. You’ll be given some post-treatment instructions to follow to ensure your treatment heals quickly and you get the best results. It’s important to follow this advice. Your medical practitioner should also be contactable and available to see you for a review should you need it.
    How do I choose a practitioner?
    It is recommended that aesthetic injectable procedures should be performed by medical professionals such as nurses, doctors and dentists. It is always good to ask who will be performing the treatment, how much experience they have and how many of the particular procedures they have carried out. Ask what type of fillers they will be using, whether permanent or temporary so you are able to make an informed choice. Temporary fillers are thought to be safer and the results more stable.

    Read their reviews to see what others have said about their personal experiences with the same procedure.
    Ask to see their before and after photos. (See if the after photo shows the kind of result you’re aiming for.) If there is little or no evidence of their work then that might be a sign the individual providing the injections doesn’t have much experience.

    Ask what qualifications they have. Are they a prescriber? Are they able to manage and treat a complication should it occur? Will they be contactable after your procedure is done and able to review you should you need it?
    It is important to feel comfortable with whoever you choose to do your treatment so research is vital.

    What should I consider before having fillers?
    It is important to do your research before your filler treatment. You should know what the product is, how long it lasts and how often you may need to have it re-done. Are there any side effects? What kind of result can you expect from your treatment? Is there any downtime – how long should you have it before a special event?

    Who is the person that will be carrying out your treatment? How experienced are they and what qualifications do they have?

    Are you suitable for the treatment and are there any pre or post treatment instructions?

    How can people offer cheap lip fillers?
    You may likely come across cheap offers for fillers not coming from a medical professional. In this instance you’re likely dealing with brands that are not of the highest quality or copies purchased online which is a dangerous practice.

    Also, you may get some practitioners offering discounts or doing treatments at very low prices… if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

    Remember, with aesthetics the price you pay is usually based on these three main areas.

            • Cost of product
            • Experience of practitioner
            • Patient results
    Are there any questions I should ask during my consultation?
    A consultation is the most important part of any aesthetic treatment. It is your chance to ask questions, and gain as much information as possible so you can make an informed decision. Ask about the practitioner’s qualifications, experience, the number of procedures they’ve performed. Is this their only job or are they just doing a bit of aesthetics on the side?
    Try to ask what kind of result you can expect following the treatment and what the pre and post treatment instructions are.
    What results should I expect?
    Results of fillers can vary from person to person and area of the face treated. However, you should expect to see a subtle, natural enhancement. You should not appear unrecognisable after treatment.
    How are lip filler/fillers charged?
    Fillers are often charged per syringe. You can expect to pay between £150-500 per syringe. Otherwise they are often charged per area treated which may also vary between £200-£900.
    How can I avoid the dreaded duck look?
    One of the biggest concerns about lip fillers is ending up with ‘duck lips’. Avoid this look by choosing a skilled injector with an artistic eye and having realistic expectations for your results. Fillers can help you achieve a fuller pout and create subtle changes to your lip shape, within reason. Overfilling the lips will result in an unnatural appearance.
    Why do I not get the same result as people who have the same amount of filler?
    Results can really vary from person to person. As we age our skin and face structure can change. Our collagen and elastin decreases as well as our own levels of hyaluronic acid. Some people may require higher amounts of hyaluronic acid filler than others to achieve a similar result.
    How long does the treatment take?
    Treatment time can be from 15-60 minutes depending on the practitioner and amount of filler/ area treated.

    FAQs:

    ANTI AGEING INJECTIONS

    What areas can you treat with anti-ageing injections?
    Anti-ageing injections are mainly used for the face.

    Crow’s feet lines around the eyes, frown lines (or ‘the 11’s) between the eyebrows and forehead lines are the most popular areas to be treated. However, other areas also treated are:

    • Brow lift
    • Gummy smile
    • Platysmal bands (neck bands)
    • Teeth grinding
    • Chin
    • Excessive sweating
    Do anti-ageing injections actually get rid of wrinkles?
    Despite what you may think anti- ageing injections do not actually remove wrinkles but helps to soften them.
    It will temporarily relax the muscles that cause lines and wrinkles. Specifically the forehead lines, frown lines and crow’s feet at the sides of the eyes.

    The best time to start having anti- ageing injections is when the lines and wrinkles begin to show when the face is at rest (these are called static lines). Anti- ageing injections can be used as a preventative measure to avoid getting fine lines and wrinkles.

    What Anti-ageing injections do not do (examples below)
    • Hooded eye lids
    • Sagging jowls
    Which Anti-ageing injection product is best?
    Anti-ageing injections is a brand name for B0tulinum T0xin Type A. Three of the most recognised brand names are B*t*x, Dysport and Xeomin. B*t*x is the original and best known brand name and the most tested product on the market. It is the result of many decades of studies and has been used extensively in medicine. It is the safest product and it is certified in the medical and cosmetic field.
    Should you have Anti-ageing injections or filler?
    Anti- ageing injections and filler do different things so should be used for different indications. Anti- ageing injections tends to be used on the upper face and fillers on the mid and lower face, with some exceptions.
    Anti- ageing injections work to relax the muscles that cause lines and wrinkles, most commonly on the frown lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet lines. Filler can be used to create volume, lift and contour as well as lifting and softening fine lines and adding volume.
    Can Anti-ageing injections cause headaches?
    Some people experience a temporary mild headache following injections into the forehead muscles with anti- ageing injections. It can last a few hours to a few days. If this happens, taking Paracetamol may help relieve the headache.
    Can Anti-ageing treatments be removed/reversed?
    Anti- ageing treatments cannot be removed or dissolved. There is no way to undo its effects, we have to wait for the treatment to wear off and for the muscle activity to return.
    Can Anti-ageing treatments stop working?
    In some people their body may start to form resistance to anti- ageing treatments over time. The body begins to form antibodies against the product. Eventually the antibodies will stop anti- ageing treatments from working. It is recommended that patients wait a period of 12 weeks for their former dose of anti- ageing treatments to have worn off before being treated again to help prevent resistance.
    What is in Anti-ageing injections/what is it made of?
    Anti-ageing injections are a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum. It is medically used to treat specific muscular conditions, blocking nerve activity in the muscles, temporarily relaxing the muscle. It is cosmetically used to remove facial lines and wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing the underlying muscles.
    Anti-ageing injections for headaches/migraines
    Anti- ageing treatments has brought relief to many people who suffer from chronic medical conditions. It can be used for the treatment of chronic migraines, which means headaches for more than 15 days per month. If you want to try anti- ageing treatments for migraine you should look for a headache specialist or neurologist.
    How long do Anti-ageing injections last?
    The effects from last approximately 3-4 months but this varies from person to person. As muscle activity gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to reappear and will need to be treated again. The longevity of the treatment can be affected by metabolism, smoking and exercise.
    Are Anti-ageing treatments safe?
    Anti-ageing treatments are generally considered to be very safe, having been around for 30 years, with it being used liberally and FDA approved.
    What’s the difference between Anti-ageing treatments & Fillers?
    Anti-ageing injections are prescription-only medication used to temporarily relax the muscles that cause lines and wrinkles and tends to be used on the upper part of the face, specifically crow’s feet lines, forehead lines and frown lines.
    Fillers do not require a prescription and are made up of a Hyaluronic Acid gel which is injected into the required area, providing volume, contour and lift.
    How do you choose a practitioner?

    It is recommended that aesthetic injectable procedures should be performed by medical professionals such as nurses, doctors and dentists. It is always good to ask who will be performing the treatment, how much experience they have and how many of the particular procedures they have carried out.

    Anti- ageing injections are a prescription medication so you should be seen for a face to face consultation with a prescribing nurse, doctor or dentist before having your treatment.

    Read their reviews to see what others have said about their personal experiences with the same procedure.
    Ask to see their before and after photos. If there is little or no evidence of their work then that might be a sign the individual providing the injections doesn’t have much experience.

    Ask what qualifications they have. Are they a prescriber or do you need to see another practitioner for your face-to-face consultation for a prescription?

    When should I NOT have Anti-ageing injections?
    There are certain contraindications to having anti- ageing injections:
    Pregnancy and breastfeeding – There are no studies evaluating the safety of Anti- ageing injections in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding therefore those women should avoid it. It’s better to be safe than sorry in this instance.

    Viral, bacterial or fungal infections at the site of injection – If you have any active infections you’ll need to avoid injections in these areas.

    Allergy to Anti- ageing injections – This is extremely rare but if you suffer from many allergies it may not be advisable for you to have anti- ageing injections.

    How are Anti-ageing injections charged?
    Anti- ageing injections are normally charged per area treated. It can range from £100 -£250 per area.
    When should you start having Anti-ageing injections?
    The best time to start having anti- ageing injections is when the lines and wrinkles begin to show when the face is at rest. Anti- ageing injections can be used as a preventative measure to avoid getting fine lines and wrinkles. High mobility in the muscles can lead to premature ageing, so when these lines begin to show at rest, anti- ageing injections will help prevent them from forming.
    How Long do Anti-ageing injections take to work?
    Anti- ageing injections do not take effect immediately. Normally it takes 4 -10 days to see the results. A review is normally offered after 2 weeks to check the results, adding any ‘tweaks’ if needed.
    How can people offer cheap Anti-ageing injections?
    You may likely come across cheap offers for anti- ageing injections not coming from a medical professional. In this instance you’re likely dealing with brands that are not of the highest quality or copies purchased online which is a dangerous practice. It may also be offered by a non-medical practitioner who is not fully trained or is inexperienced in the procedure.

    Many providers offer cut-price deals to lure people in. If a deal looks too good to be true then it probably is. It is recommended to speak to a medical professional about expected outcomes. Choose a reputable, safe and qualified practitioner who is trained in the treatment and is a regulated healthcare professional.

    Will I still have movement in my face after I have Anti-ageing injections?
    When anti-ageing injections are done correctly there should still be a small amount of movement in the forehead to allow for facial expressions. If there’s a complete freeze of the forehead muscles, the effect can look unnatural.
    Even after 2 weeks when the treatment has taken full effect , it’s normal to have a small degree of movement in the treated area. The goal of anti- ageing injections is not to completely immobilize movement but to enable a certain amount of it in order to avoid a frozen unnatural look.
    How can I have a natural look with Anti-ageing injections?
    Many patients are concerned that anti- ageing injections may result in looking overdone or “plastic’. Tailored treatments done by an experienced medical practitioner that target different areas of the face achieve the best, natural looking results. This should include a thorough consultation where the medical practitioner talks to you about what your concerns are and gives you a careful assessment.
    Many patients are concerned that anti- ageing injections may result in looking overdone or “plastic’. Tailored treatments done by an experienced medical practitioner that target different areas of the face achieve the best, natural looking results. This should include a thorough consultation where the medical practitioner talks to you about what your concerns are and gives you a careful assessment.
    Is having Anti-ageing injections painful?
    Anti- ageing injections are not considered to be painful. Just a few injections with a very small needle.
    What happens during a consultation?
    A consultation is the best place to start when considering any type of aesthetic treatment. Anti- ageing consultation is a thorough discussion with a medical professional who will take the time to analyse your skin/face/treatment area, go through your medical history and discuss your desired results. After your consultation you should feel confident and well informed about your treatment.
    Are there any questions I should ask during my consultation?
    A consultation is the most important part of any aesthetic treatment. It is your chance to ask questions, and gain as much information as possible so you can make an informed decision. Ask about the practitioner’s qualifications, experience, the number of procedures they’ve performed, is this their only job or are they just doing a bit of aesthetics on the side? And will you need to see another medical professional for your prescription? Do they offer a free of charge review appointment after 2 weeks in case any tweaking needs to be done?
    How long does the treatment take?
    The treatment itself normally takes around 5 minutes.

    FAQs

    Profhilo® Skin Stimulator

    How Does it Work?
    The collagen in our skin eventually wears away as we age due to UV damage, overactive muscle movements, loss of skin elasticity, loss in bone density and other factors. The reduction in collagen can cause the skin to crease and produce undesirable effects.

    Profhilo stimulates 4 types of collagen and elastin by slowly releasing hyaluronic acid, thereby significantly improving the tissue quality.

    This collagen and elastin production tightens and smooths the skin and results in an increase in hydration levels.

    How is the Treatment Administered?
    The treatment is typically provided with 5 injection points into the area being treated.

    It is carried out over two visits one month apart, and the results last for up to 9 months.

    Are there any Side Effects?
    Mild swelling and bruising may occur. The procedure is quick and tolerated well by all patients.

    Before treatment please do not drink alcohol for 24 Hours. We advise patients to avoid the use of aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for 48 hours before treatment (unless taken for a chronic medical condition which will be discussed during your pre-treatment consultation). Avoiding these medicines will reduce the risk of bruising at the point of injections.

    After the treatment it is important to keep the skin clean and avoid touching the treated areas. It is recommended to avoid sauna/facials/UV exposure for 7 days.