FAQ

WHAT ARE DERMAL FILLERS?

Dermal fillers or ‘injectable cosmetic filler/injectable facial filler’ in my clinic are made of a cross linked hyaluronic acid that is injected into soft tissue to fill facial wrinkles or “static” lines. Dermal fillers can create volume and fullness to lips and cheeks, for instance to create plumpness and definition. Dermal fillers come in all different thicknesses/consistencies and therefore can be used for simple things such as rehydration of the skin to procedures that replace lost tissue mass. It generally takes 3 to 10 months for filler to break down, yet various factors will affect its longevity.

WHAT ARE ANTI-WRINKLE INJECTABLES?

Anti-wrinkle injections are a product that contains Botulinum Toxin that is injected into a muscle. Anti-wrinkle injections do not essentially treat “wrinkles” or the “skin” but they relax the underlying muscle that cause us to have wrinkles and fine lines. Treatments with this product can last for 3 to 4 months.

HOW LONG UNTIL I SEE RESULTS?

Dermal fillers are an immediate result but it is important to remember that optimal results are achieved 2 to 3 weeks post your treatment this is due to the process of time that it takes to heal and swelling to completely resolve. Anti-wrinkle treatment can begin to take effect in 2 to 3 days and will have full effect in 10-14 days. Please keep in mind to plan your treatments at least three to five weeks in advance of any special events or occasions.

IS IT PAINFUL?

Both treatments often involve very minimal pain. Some describe some areas as an ant bite sensation or slight discomfort. All filler treatments will involve numbing cream as well as numbing agent within the product itself – if you are fearful of needles or very concerned about discomfort we can have a discussion on how best to treat you and discuss what path to take in regards to numbing agents we use.

WHY DO I NEED A PRESCRIPTION?

The medications used for your treatment are considered schedule 4 medications and therefore can only be prescribed by a doctor. If you have had a prescription done somewhere else this is disregarded, you must get a script with Dr Haig, my prescribing doctor.

IS THERE ANYBODY YOU CANNOT TREAT?

You must be at least 18 years old to undergo a treatment and please be aware that I will not treat clients who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT ON THE DAY OF MY TREATMENT?

The points from your complimentary consultation will be touched on again and any questions you would like to ask can be done so at this time. Additionally:

• Consent forms will be signed
• Confirmation of pricing will occur
• A script will be done with Dr Andrew Haig if not already done so
• Pre photos will be taken and discussion of what results you would like are confirmed
• Treatment area may be numbed with numbing cream or ice
• Product is injected
• Product is massaged and smoothed out (if filler is used)
• The procedure will range from 20 minutes to 1 hour, depending on what treatment you are having done
• Post care will be discussed
• Complimentary follow up appointment will be organised

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

As with any type of procedure there are risks and side effects that must be considered. Potential side effects of fillers include bruising and swelling, punctures on the skin (only last a couple of days), asymmetry (may have already been present, but at times, enhanced), lumpiness (tends to smooth out with time). Potential side effects of anti-wrinkle treatment include mild and temporary redness, bruising, headaches, infection, leakage to a nearby muscle. Rare side effects are allergy, migration of product, infection, damage deep nerves/vessels, granulomas or lumps. These will be discussed in depth in your consultation.