Fillers, often referred to as dermal fillers, are substances injected into the skin to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. While there are various types, hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are the most common. Hyaluronic acid (HA), naturally found in our bodies, can hold up to 1000 times its body weight in water, making it ideal for ensuring and maintaining skin hydration and elasticity.
In dermal fillers, HA is chemically cross-linked using agents such as 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE). This process involves linking HA chains together, which enhances the gel's viscoelastic properties and slows down its enzymatic degradation in the body. The result is a stable, long-lasting filler that maintains its shape and effectiveness over time.
Hyaluronic acid-based fillers are biocompatible and integrate well into the skin. Injected strategically into the face, fillers can restore lost facial volume, gently lift the skin, and enhance facial attributes. Examples of locally approved brands of fillers include Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero.
A synergy of proteins, processes, and substances, such as collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production, maintains our skin. These work together to ensure our skin remains smooth, hydrated, elastic, and taut. However, these processes reduce as we age, resulting in skin laxity and dry and hallowed skin, all contributing to an aged appearance. This is where dermal fillers and other injectables step in.
When HA dermal fillers are injected into the skin, they occupy space within the dermal and subdermal layers, providing immediate volume to the treated area. Subsequently, HA molecules also attract and bind to water molecules, allowing for long-term results. This water-binding property adds volume and hydrates the surrounding tissues, contributing to a plumper and more youthful appearance.
Dermal filler treatments require a skilled and experienced practitioner. Dr Hoe understands that precise administration is crucial as hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers have a tendency to attract water, which can lead to overfilled and unnatural-looking results if not carefully considered.
Fillers can treat various aesthetic and medical concerns, such as:
Aesthetic uses
Medical uses
You will see an instant improvement in volume and contours in the treated areas immediately after injection. Depending on the treatment area and individual goals, immediate and noticeable results may include:
The dermal filler can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to fully settle into its final position. This settling process depends on factors like the type of filler used, the area treated, and individual skin characteristics. Additionally, you may experience mild swelling, redness, or tenderness in the treatment area, which typically resolves within a few hours.
Results usually last 6-18 months, depending on the specific product used, treatment area, and individual factors. The body gradually breaks down the injected filler over time, so the effects will slowly diminish. Some patients may also notice a slight decrease in visible results over the first few months, especially if it's their first treatment.
The number of treatment sessions needed for fillers varies depending on the goal, treatment area, and type of filler used. Typically, most individuals notice visible results after the first session. However, some may require touch-up treatments or multiple sessions for optimal outcomes, especially when addressing more significant volume loss or when treating multiple areas. To refine the results, Dr Hoe may recommend subsequent follow-ups or maintenance treatments (every 6-12 months).
Skinboosters focus on overall skin quality improvement, while dermal fillers are used for specific volumising and contouring effects. They can be used separately or in combination for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
| Skinboosters | Dermal fillers | |
| Uses or function | Improves overall skin quality, hydration, and texture. Works by boosting skin health and hydration at a cellular level. | Adds volume, contours, and fills specific areas like wrinkles and lines. Works by lifting and volumising targeted regions. |
| Injection depth | Injected superficially into the skin, often using multiple micro-injections across the treatment area. | Injected deeper into the skin, typically in specific areas, to create volume or lift. |
| Longevity | Effects typically last 4-6 months, with maintenance treatments recommended every 6-12 months. | Results can last 6-18 months or longer, depending on the product and area treated. |
