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Dermal fillers are one of the most popular non-surgical treatments in aesthetic medicine, and it is easy to see why. They offer a way to restore volume, soften lines and enhance facial contours, all without the downtime associated with surgery. If you have been considering dermal fillers but are not quite sure what the treatment involves, this guide covers everything you need to know, from how fillers work to what recovery looks like.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable gels used to add volume, smooth wrinkles and restore a more youthful contour to the face. Most fillers used in reputable clinics, including dermal fillers at Health Excel, are made from hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in the skin and helps retain moisture and plumpness.
As we age, our natural hyaluronic acid levels decline, which contributes to the loss of volume and the appearance of fine lines. Dermal fillers work by replenishing this lost volume, giving the skin a smoother, fuller and more refreshed appearance.
Common Areas Treated with Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are a versatile treatment and can be used across many areas of the face, including:
- Cheeks, to restore volume and lift
- Lips, for added definition and fullness
- Nasolabial folds, the lines running from the nose to the mouth
- Jawline and chin, to improve contour and balance facial proportions
- Under-eye hollows (tear troughs), to reduce the appearance of tiredness
How Does the Treatment Work?
A consultation is the first step for anyone considering dermal fillers. During this appointment, your practitioner will assess your facial structure, discuss your goals and recommend an approach tailored to your needs. At Health Excel, Dr Leonardo Fasano takes time to understand what each patient wants to achieve before creating a personalised treatment plan.
The procedure itself is straightforward. A fine needle or cannula is used to inject the filler beneath the skin at carefully selected points. Most patients describe the sensation as mild discomfort rather than pain, and a topical numbing cream can be applied beforehand to improve comfort. A typical session takes between thirty and forty five minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated.
Is the Treatment Safe?
When performed by an experienced and appropriately qualified practitioner, dermal fillers are considered a safe procedure. Hyaluronic acid fillers are biocompatible and, in the rare event that a patient is unhappy with the result, can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This is one of the reasons hyaluronic acid fillers are favoured over older, permanent filler materials.
As with any injectable treatment, there are some risks, including bruising, swelling and, very rarely, more serious complications such as vascular occlusion. Choosing a practitioner with proper medical training and a thorough understanding of facial anatomy, such as Dr Fasano, significantly reduces these risks.
What to Expect During Recovery
One of the main appeals of dermal fillers is the minimal downtime involved. Most patients can return to their normal routine immediately after treatment, although some mild swelling, redness or bruising at the injection sites is common and usually settles within a few days.
To support a smooth recovery, patients are generally advised to:
- Avoid touching or applying pressure to the treated area for the first 24 hours
- Steer clear of strenuous exercise and excessive heat, such as saunas, for a couple of days
- Avoid alcohol immediately before and after treatment, as it can increase the risk of bruising
- Apply ice if needed to reduce any swelling
Results are often visible straight away, although the final outcome becomes clearer once any initial swelling has fully resolved, usually within one to two weeks. For patients who have undergone other procedures, our team also provides guidance on post-operative treatments to support healing and optimise results.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
The longevity of dermal fillers depends on the product used, the area treated and individual factors such as metabolism and lifestyle. Generally, results last between six and eighteen months. Areas with more movement, such as the lips, tend to metabolise filler more quickly than areas like the cheeks. Many patients choose to have a top-up treatment once the initial results begin to soften, allowing for consistent, natural-looking results over time.
Dermal Fillers and Complementary Treatments
Dermal fillers are often combined with other treatments for a more comprehensive result. Some patients pair fillers with anti-wrinkle injections to address both volume loss and dynamic lines, achieving a balanced, refreshed appearance. Your practitioner can advise on the best combination of treatments based on your individual goals during your consultation.
Why Choose Health Excel for Dermal Fillers
Choosing the right practitioner is the single most important decision you will make when considering dermal fillers. At Health Excel, treatments are carried out by Dr Leonardo Fasano, whose medical background and detailed knowledge of facial anatomy ensure results that are both natural looking and safe. Every treatment begins with a thorough consultation, so patients fully understand what to expect before proceeding.
Health Excel offers dermal filler treatments at our clinics in both London and Birmingham, giving patients across the UK convenient access to expert, medically led aesthetic care.
Book Your Consultation
If you are considering dermal fillers and would like to discuss your options with an experienced practitioner, we would love to hear from you. Book a consultation with Dr Leonardo Fasano at our London or Birmingham clinic by visiting our contact page today.
