Understanding Dermal Fillers: How They Evolved and What They Do

Benefits

• Replaces lost volume in cheeks, lips, jawline, and other regions
• Softens static wrinkles and folds
• Defines facial features and improves symmetry
• Almost instant visible improvement
• Minimally invasive with limited downtime
• Many products can be adjusted or dissolved if needed
• Complements other facial rejuvenation treatments

The concept of filling facial depressions dates back to the late 1800s when surgeons used a person’s own fat to correct soft tissue defects. Over time, synthetic and biocompatible materials were developed to simplify and standardize treatments. In the mid-20th century, silicone and other injectables were experimented with, but many caused adverse effects so they fell out of favour. In the 1980s, collagen derived from animal sources became the first widely accepted aesthetic filler, though limitations included allergic reactions and short duration.

Advances in chemistry eventually paved the way for hyaluronic acid, calcium-based fillers, and collagen-stimulating materials, each offering improved safety, longevity, and control. Modern fillers now combine volumising effects with structural support, often integrating with surrounding tissues for natural look and feel. The fillers we use today are the result of this evolution—safer, better tolerated, and more refined.

Consultation & planning

We begin with a facial assessment, discussing your goals, skin characteristics, and areas of concern. Together we plan which zones to treat and which filler types to use.

Preparation

We cleanse the treatment area thoroughly and apply topical numbing or local anaesthetic to minimise any discomfort.

Injection stage

Using fine needles or blunt cannulas, the filler material is delivered into precise depths beneath the skin. We proceed gradually, sculpting layer by layer to create support and volume while respecting natural contours.

Sculpting & fine tuning

Once in place, the filler is moulded into shape. We assess balance and symmetry and make minor adjustments where necessary.

Final review & next steps

You’ll see early results immediately. Before you leave, we review outcomes, offer advice about expected settling, and schedule a follow-up if refinement is required.

A typical session lasts 30–60 minutes, depending on how many areas are treated.

Call the clinic today to schedule your consultation and explore your options.

Aftercare

Proper care after treatment helps ensure optimal results:

• Do not press, rub, or massage treated areas for at least 12 hours
• Avoid vigorous exercise, steam rooms, and heavy heat exposure for 24–48 hours
• Use cool compresses gently to ease swelling or bruising
• Sleep with your head slightly elevated the first night
• Avoid alcohol and anti-inflammatory medicines on day one
• Stay out of strong sunlight and tanning beds for several days
• Use mild skincare products and delay exfoliants or peels for a week
• Attend your follow-up visit to assess results and perform tweaks if needed

Some mild swelling, redness, or tenderness is normal and usually resolves in days. If you notice lumps, asymmetry, or prolonged discomfort, contact us immediately.

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Are generally healthy
• Wish to restore volume, soften lines, or refine contours
• Prefer a non-surgical approach
• Have realistic expectations

You may not be suitable if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have active infection or inflammation at injection sites
• Have allergies to filler components
• Are on strong blood-thinning medications

During the consultation, we review your medical history, current medications, and skin health to confirm whether dermal fillers are appropriate for you.

Alternatives & Complementary Treatments

• Botulinum toxin injections (anti-wrinkle treatments): ideal for lines caused by muscle movement
• Thread lifting: uses dissolvable sutures to lift sagging soft tissue
• Fat transfer: uses your own fat to fill voids (more invasive)
• Implants or surgical augmentation: for permanent structural correction
• Skin resurfacing, lasers or tighteners: to improve texture and tone
• Combination plans: filler plus Botox or skin treatments may offer the most harmonious result

In your consultation we’ll recommend the best approach, whether filler alone or in combination with other options.