TÄYTEAINEET (HYALURONIHAPPO)

What are hyaluronic acid-based fillers?

Hyaluronic acid fillers, also known as soft tissue fillers, are much more than just wrinkle smoothers: they can plump lips, smooth lines, and fill tear troughs, also known as tear grooves. Injectable fillers can also be used for non-invasive nose reshaping. Fillers can add volume to the cheeks and temples, reduce the visibility of acne scars, contour the jawline, and improve a receding chin area.

For patients experiencing age-related volume loss, a more youthful appearance can be restored and the need for surgical procedures can be delayed with a “liquid facelift,” which combines injectable fillers with botulinum toxin.

Hyaluronic acid is the most popular facial filler approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

What are the pros and cons of fillers?

Pros

• This injectable cosmetic procedure is quick, relatively painless, and safe when performed by a licensed medical professional.
• Hyaluronic acid-based fillers are almost identical to the chemicals naturally found in our bodies. They break down over time, and the risk of allergic reactions is minimal. They can also be easily dissolved with hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down HA, if the results are not as desired.
• Results are immediate.
• The procedure usually does not require downtime, except for possible bruising and swelling.
• All injectable fillers have been found to stimulate collagen production.
• Up to 90% of clients who have had this procedure rated the results as extremely positive. Many reported looking more rested after treating tear troughs, finally getting the lips they always wanted, or being satisfied with the new contours of their face.

Cons

• The results of filler treatments are temporary. Regular touch-ups are needed to maintain them.
• Filler treatments can be dangerous in inexperienced hands.
• They may also have potential side effects (described below). Some side effects, such as migration and lumps, can persist until removed, so many doctors recommend HA-based fillers that can be dissolved with hyaluronidase.
• Bruising can sometimes occur after facial filler treatments and may last up to two weeks.
• Results can be either too subtle or too dramatic, so make sure to clearly communicate your aesthetic concerns and desired outcome to the doctor.

What happens during the filler treatment?

First, you and the doctor will discuss the desired outcome and the most suitable filler, as well as possible risks. This is a good time to find out how much filler is needed and get a personalized cost estimate to avoid surprises when paying the bill.

Once these details are covered, the treatment proceeds as follows:

The aesthetic medicine professional performing the treatment cleanses the treatment area and applies a local anesthetic if necessary (most of the fillers we use contain lidocaine).
The filler is then slowly injected either with a needle or a blunt cannula. The area is gently massaged with fingers to ensure even distribution before continuing with new injections.

Although an individual injection takes only a few minutes, the entire cosmetic procedure may take half an hour or even longer, especially if multiple areas are being treated.

Immediate results include increased volume and smoother skin.

Once the procedure is complete, cold gel can be used to relieve discomfort, soreness, or any immediate swelling or bruising. The treated area should not be pressed hard.

How much recovery time do you need?

Although no actual recovery time is required, it is quite common for bruising and swelling to occur at the injection site. These symptoms can take a few days to two weeks to subside.

Bruising can usually be covered with makeup, but it is recommended to avoid fillers too close to important events.

Avoid sun exposure, heat, heavy exercise, and alcohol for at least 24 hours after treatment to prevent worsening of swelling.

How long do fillers last?

The duration of fillers can vary from six months to several years, depending on the substance used, the amount used, and how quickly your body breaks them down. Some hyaluronic acid-based fillers can last up to 18 months.

“If your metabolism is fast, you may notice the filler fading more quickly,” says Larissa Koivuniemi, Medical Director at MESQ Clinic. “On the other hand, after two or three rounds of injections, you’ll notice that the filler lasts longer and longer.”

However, assessing the durability of fillers is more complex than initially thought. Recent studies have shown that hyaluronic acid-based fillers can last much longer than manufacturers claim: gels are visible in MRI and ultrasound examinations ten years or even longer after injection. In some parts of the face, such as under the eyes, old filler lasts longer than elsewhere.

What are the long-term effects of dermal fillers?

When used correctly, fillers generally do not cause permanent changes in the face or long-term adverse effects. However, if used improperly, especially when trying to “lift” the face, fillers can cause a variety of problems.

Although long-term effects of fillers are rare, excessive amounts of hyaluronic acid-based fillers can alter facial features, making them look artificial or unnatural.

Cheek or lip fillers can interfere with muscle mechanics, change the shape of the eyes (especially when smiling), and cause the mouth to move in an unusual way.

Too much filler around the eyes can block the lymphatic vessels, potentially leading to persistent swelling and bags under the eyes.

To avoid problems related to overfilling, choose a professional who follows a conservative approach and does not believe that fillers should be topped up according to a specific schedule.
Additionally, it's important to note that hyaluronic acid-based fillers can last longer than manufacturers claim, so layering new filler over the old one should be avoided.

What are the risks and side effects of fillers?

Fillers are considered safe when administered by an experienced aesthetic professional, but it's important to note that all injection treatments carry risks and side effects.

The most common side effects of fillers are redness at the injection site, bruising, asymmetry, and lumps. To minimize bruising, avoid aspirin, certain supplements (high doses of vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, and garlic), or other blood thinners 1-2 weeks before the treatment.

It is known that hyaluronic acid-based fillers can shift or move away from the original treatment area. Fillers should be injected slowly, at the right depth, and in small droplets to stay in place for a long time.

Allergic reactions are also possible side effects of fillers.

Accidental injection of filler into a blood vessel can lead to serious complications. If you plan to use hyaluronic acid-based fillers, choose an experienced doctor or nurse who knows facial anatomy and has an adequate amount of hyaluronidase on hand for emergencies.

Avoid fillers if you have an infection on your face or near the injection site, as it could spread or cause complications.

Change in perception – unintentionally deviating further and further from your normal baseline with each injection – is a psychological risk associated with facial fillers, potentially leading to an unnatural appearance over time.

Are fillers better than botulinum toxin?

Many people mistakenly believe that injectable botulinum toxins are fillers, but although both are cosmetic injections, they work in completely different ways: while fillers add volume, botulinum toxins relax muscles, smoothing lines, wrinkles, and folds (and preventing them from increasing).

Consult with a professional about your aesthetic goals to determine which treatment is the best option for you.