What is it?
The two main things can be achieved with dermal filler treatments namely volume restoration and accentuation of facial contours (e.g. the cheeks, lips, jawline and chin).
The most common dermal filler used consist of hyaluronic acid, a non-protein compound that is naturally found in the dermis. It strongly binds to water (hygroscopic) and therefore hydrates, volumizes and softens the skin. It also plays an intricate role in cell growth and stabilizes dermal structures by binding collagen and elastin fibres together. These advantages make hyaluronic acid an exceptional filling agent that still emerges as the leader in dermal fillers.
How does it work?
Overtime the face loses volume. This is due to several reasons including bone loss (bone resorption), decreased amounts of fat pads (superficial and deep), laxity of facial ligaments (retaining ligaments), the downward displacement of fat pads and gravity. All there changes produce a tired, sad- looking and droopy appearance. Gravitational forces can unfortunately not be altered, but dermal fillers can improve bone loss and fat pad changes significantly.
Correct facial proportions produce a more attractive and aesthetically pleasing look. This can be obtained by dermal filler augmentation. It entails enhancing/correcting specific facial features i.e. creating fuller lips, more prominent cheekbones or a more defined jawline.
Am I a candidate?
Dermal fillers can be used from the age of 18 years. It is safe in most individuals, but certain medical conditions may be contra-indications.
These include:
- Pregnancy
- Lactation & Breastfeeding
- Auto-immune diseases (uncontrolled)
- Diabetes (uncontrolled)
- Acute infections on the face or injection area
- Recent dentist or oral hygienist appointments (wait at least one month)
- Allergic to Lignocaine (local anesthetic)
- Allergic to Hyaluronic acid
- Bleeding disorders or use of anti-coagulants (relative contra-indication)
Inform your treating doctor of any recent use of anti-inflammatory medications use, or if you are prone to cold sores (Herpes simplex infection).
Results
Results, unlike with other aesthetic treatments are immediate. After treatment swelling and bruising will settle in 1-2 weeks and if needed a follow up treatment can be performed.
Results last from 6 months to 2 years depending on the area injected, the type of filler used and the persons metabolism.
Costs
The following prices are per 1ml of Restylane filler. For each ml filler added 10% discount will apply.
| Area | Price |
| Forehead | R 2 800 |
| Temples | R 3 600 |
| Cheeks | R 3 800 |
| Nasolabial folds | R 3 600 |
| Marionette Lines | R 3 600 |
| Lips | R 3 500 |
| Jawline | R 3 600 |
| Chin | R 3 800 |