Facial Filler & Dermal Filler Aesthetics

Our skin, which is the largest organ with the broadest surface area of our body, is not solely influenced by genetic factors. Unlike other internal organs, the skin is a structure that is affected by both internal and external (environmental) factors. Air pollution, factory emissions, industrial vapors, cigarette smoke, and exhaust fumes, as well as weather conditions such as snowy, windy, dry, humid, or sunny conditions, are all elements that impact the condition of the skin.

While genetics account for 20% of the aging process of the skin, the remaining 80% is attributed to environmental factors. As the skin ages, not only filler substances but also the skeletal system that holds the skin together undergo aging. Fibers like collagen and elastin make up the skin's scaffold; they envelop the skin like a network. These fibers are fundamental supporting elements that provide the skin with firmness, elasticity, adaptability, and durability.

Hyaluronic Acid

Over time, typically due to environmental influences, the reduction of elastic fibers, collagen fibers, fat layers, and hyaluronic acid in the skin leads to the formation of wrinkles and sagging, especially in areas like the eyes, mouth, jawline, neck, nose, and forehead. Dermal fillers can effectively address sagging and wrinkles in the lower areas of the face. Gel-based hyaluronic acid fillers, due to their hydrophilic properties, are used to correct lines and wrinkles by attracting and binding water. By attracting water and plumping up lines and wrinkles, they help achieve a younger and healthier appearance for the skin.

Hyaluronic Acid-Based Dermal Fillers

Hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers are among the most commonly chosen methods in the field of medical aesthetics and are among the most popular tools in the anti-aging industry. They cover a wide range of applications, from treating fine lines and wrinkles on the face to lip augmentation, enhancing cheekbones, and creating a facelift effect.

Hyaluronic Acid-Based Filler Injections

Hyaluronic acid-based filler injections are cosmetic procedures performed to fill fine lines and deep wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging, and to reshape the face. These treatments typically have a duration of 8 to 12 months, providing effective and immediately noticeable anti-aging results. Prior to the procedure, an anesthetic cream is applied to the treatment area, which takes only 10 to 15 minutes. You can resume your daily activities right after the procedure.

Areas of Application for Dermal Fillers

• Nasolabial folds (lines and depressions extending from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth)
• Marionette lines (sagging and deep lines around the mouth)
• Smoker's lines (fine lines above the upper lip)
• Lip augmentation
• Correcting under-eye hollows
• Creating a more defined jawline
• Midface fill (enhancing cheekbones and mid-cheek area)
• Nose reshaping
• Temple area fill
• Neck rejuvenation
• Restoring lost volume and creating a lifting effect on the face

How Long Does the Filler Procedure Take? Are There Any Side Effects?

The procedure duration can range from 15 to 30 minutes. You can return to your normal daily routine immediately after the procedure. Mild swelling and redness may occur in the treated area, but these typically subside completely within 1 to 2 days. The filler substance usually settles within an average of 14 days, achieving its final appearance. The effects of the filler last between 8 to 12 months, varying according to individual factors.

Precautions Before Dermal Filler Application

• Discontinue the use of aspirin or similar medications at least 2 weeks prior to the filler procedure.
• If there is an active cold sore present on the lips, it is advisable to avoid lip filler injections. If recurrent cold sores are an issue, appropriate antiviral creams should be used before and after the procedure.
• Avoid administering fillers to infected or acne-prone areas.
• Refrain from getting facial fillers around the mouth at the same time as dental treatments, as dental infections can affect the filler in the mouth area.

Precautions After Dermal Filler Application

• For the first 1 to 2 hours after the procedure, maintain an upright position, and avoid strenuous exercises for 24 hours. Refrain from engaging in sports on the same day as the procedure.
• Do not perform any facial skincare procedures on the day of the filler treatment; these can be resumed at the earliest after 1 week.
• Pools are a high-risk area for infection. Therefore, avoid swimming for at least 2 days following the filler procedure.
• Makeup products and brushes should not be used for 1 day after the procedure.
• Avoid sleeping face-down for 4 hours after the filler procedure.
• Refrain from undergoing dental procedures within the first week after receiving fillers.
• Sunscreen and colorless pharmacy products and creams can be used.
• Avoid laser treatments within the first 2 days after the filler procedure.
• Excessive alcohol consumption on the day of the filler procedure should be avoided, as it may exacerbate swelling.

Who Is Not a Candidate for Dermal Filler Application?

• Patients with an active infection in the treatment area, such as inflammation, wounds, or cold sores.
• Individuals with a keloid or hypertrophic scar structure, indicating a history of poor wound healing.
• Those with autoimmune diseases, such as Polymyositis/Dermatomyositis.
• Patients with immune deficiencies, indicating a compromised immune system.
• Some dermal fillers may contain antibiotics during their preparation. Care should be taken with patients with drug allergies.
• Some dermal fillers may contain pain relievers like Lidocaine. Caution should be exercised in cases of hypersensitivity to Lidocaine.
• Only hyaluronic acid-based fillers can be used on pregnant and breastfeeding individuals.