Considering rejuvenation treatments? Common FAQs about dermal fillers answered

Thinking about dermal fillers? Read on for the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about this anti-aging treatment.

The dermal filler industry is currently worth $44.76 billion in 2022. And there’s no sign of slowdown: experts are predicting a 5.3% growth of anti-aging treatments and options by December this year.

From the simplest anti-wrinkle cream to procedures like injecting Botox, many clinics, spas, and even dental surgeries can offer non-surgical facial aesthetics that can help reverse or minimize the signs of aging.

And with the stigma around such treatments dropping, more and more adults are seeing investment in the appearance of their skin as something worthwhile. 

The key area that is booming in anti-aging treatments is that of non-surgical facial aesthetics, which includes Botox, dermal fillers, and collagen injections. All these treatments are fast, non-invasive, and affordable, which are some of the core reasons behind their popularity. 

So, if you are eager to learn more about dermal fillers, you have come to the right place. This article answers core questions that are searched online relating to dermal fillers to help you learn more about the procedure and whether it is the right treatment for you.

What are dermal fillers?

First, a bit of biology. The body creates an inert acid known as hyaluronic acid, that helps to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, allowing the face to look plump.

When most people hit their late 20s or 30s, the amount of hyaluronic acid begins to decrease, creating wrinkles and fine lines. One option to combat this is the injection of dermal fillers, especially in a clinic or spa, like Med Spa Chicago, by staff who are trained in facial aesthetics. The fillers themselves are hyaluronic acid that has been created in a lab and when injected under the skin, fill the wrinkles and smooth the surrounding area. 

As mentioned, this acid is inert, as are the options created for injection, so there is less than a 0.001% chance of an allergic reaction.

Are the injections uncomfortable?

No, the injections of dermal fillers should not be uncomfortable. However, this remains one of the most commonly asked questions about fillers. Some people report that the injections feel like a mild pinch. However, if you have concerns about discomfort, it is worth discussing this with the provider of the injections, as they may be able to numb the area(s) to be treated before the injections. 

How long do they take?

The average time it takes to inject dermal fillers is between 30-45 minutes; hence they are quick enough to fit into a lunch break. However, be aware that this time will vary based on how many you are having injected. 

For instance, if you are more mature, you may want to have more than a standard set of 2-4 injections, so the process may take a bit longer. However, at your initial consultation with the provider, they should be able to offer you a more accurate treatment time based on this, so you won’t be waiting around.

When will I see the effects of the fillers?

The first effects of the fillers will make themselves known within 2-4 days, but some people notice the effects as soon as they leave the clinic or spa where they have had them applied. 

For most people, it will take between a week and 2 weeks to notice the full effect of the fillers. 

How often can I have them reapplied?

To maintain the smoothing effects of the fillers and to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, you should aim to have the fillers injected 2 to 4 times a year.

However, this will vary based on where the fillers are applied, your age, and the type of fillers used. Soft fillers tend to last a bit longer, so you may be able to wait between six to nine months between injections.

Is the aftercare tricky?

The aftercare of dermal fillers is not too hard. Firstly, much like Botox, you will need to not apply pressure to the area where the injections have been applied, as they are still mobile under the skin for 24 hours post-injection. So, no putting on make-up, no application of face creams, and no facial massages.

You should also avoid alcohol, as you did before the injections, strenuous exercise, sunbeds, or sunbathing, as all of these activities cause the heart rate to increase and can cause the fillers to move out from under the skin. T

ake care of any swelling with the use of an ice pack wrapped in a towel. Most swelling from dermal fillers will last between two to four days, except fillers that have been applied to the lips, which may last for up to seven days.