" "
Call Us: (02) 9158 6375

Dermal fillers offer a minimally invasive way to address the premature signs of ageing. They can make cheeks and jawlines appear more defined, restore the fullness of the lips for an attractive pout and even address skin texture imperfections that may be caused by scarring, but the biggest question on patients’ lips is ‘is dermal filler safe?’ today we’re going to explain what dermal filler is and how it should be used, in order for it to be safe.

 

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers, or injectables, as they are commonly known, are made up of a gel-like substance that is injected under the surface of the skin. They do exactly what their name suggests: they fill or build up areas of the skin that may have been depressed due to volume loss that typically accompanies the ageing process. The most commonly used substance, hyaluronic acid, actually occurs naturally in the body so it is generally well tolerated.

 

So, Is Dermal Filler Safe?

There are a number of factors to take into account when answering the question of filler safety. When a suitably qualified and experienced professional administers dermal fillers, they are considered to be safe. However, there are still side effects and risks to be aware of before you go ahead with treatment, even when it is professionally administered. 

Fillers are a prescription-only treatment. This means that

  • Only a medical professional can administer them in an approved clinic or facility
  • Only TGA-approved filler brands can be used
  • Your professional needs to advise you about the risks and side effects that are associated with dermal filler
  • You should first consult a professional before the dermal filler procedure/

When these factors are taken into account, a dermal filler can be considered safe for use.

 

 

What Side Effects And Complications Should You Be Aware Of?

Even when a filler is administered by a professional in a registered facility, the chance of side effects occurring is quite real. The good news is that most side effects are temporary and will self resolve in a few days. Some of the more common side effects include

  • Pain and discomfort at the injection site. Even though a topical numbing agent should be used, the skin of the face is very sensitive.
  • Bruising and swelling may occur. Even if you work with an experienced professional, bruising and swelling do occur. Dermal fillers in the lips can cause a fair amount of swelling because the skin is more sensitive 
  • Too much filler is also a possibility, which is why most good professionals will encourage you to hold the belief that less is more. If you need more, you can have more, but your aesthetician will have to dissolve the filler if you have had too much. It is the role of the professional to intervene if a patient asks for too much filler, and to advise you on a more natural and manageable result
  • Allergic reactions, although they can occur, are very rare 
  • In very rare cases, infections have been reported, but this risk can be managed by working with an experienced professional and having your treatment done at a registered facility.

By working with a professional who has experience with dermal fillers, you not only manage your risks more effectively but also have a contingency plan if something goes wrong.

 

Is Dermal Filler Safe For Long Term Use?

While the professionals agree that long term studies have not been conducted to determine the safety of injectables, they do concur that hyaluronic acid specifically is a naturally-occuring substance in the body that does not elicit an auto-immune response. 

safety of dermal fillers sydneyFat transfer injections are also generally well tolerated because they make use of fat collected from other areas of the body. Because the filler is coming from your own body, your system is less likely to reject it.

Most safety issues related to the use of fillers come about because the product is being administered incorrectly.

The currently available data seems to support the belief that long-term use of filler is generally safe.

 

How To Ensure Your Dermal Filler Procedure Is As Safe As Possible?

  • Speak to friends and family members for a referral
  • Ask the professional you consult with for before and after photos
  • Consider getting a second opinion, particularly if you haven’t had fillers before
  • Ask your aesthetician about the various brands. While it is not permissible to advertise or mention brands, you will want to know important facts like how long you can expect the effect to last
  • Ask about side effects and complications and what you should do in the event that you experience an adverse reaction

Imported products, products that are very discounted and unlicensed practitioners should be avoided. If you are being offered a treatment and the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

 

For a more personalised answer to the question of ‘is dermal filler safe’ it’s best to consult with a professional. Please contact us for a confidential appointment: (02) 9158 6375

 

 

 

References

Things To Consider Before Undergoing Procedures Involving Dermal Fillers
https://www.tga.gov.au/community-qa/things-consider-undergoing-procedures-involving-dermal-fillers 

What You Need To KNow Before Getting Lip Fillers
https://www.abc.net.au/everyday/what-you-need-to-know-before-getting-lip-fillers/11857468

The Long Term Health Impact of Beauty Fillers
https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/beauty/the-long-term-health-impacts-of-beauty-fillers-20181009-p508m1.html

Do Lip Fillers Hurt? Here’s What You Need To Know
do lip fillers hurt sydney

If you want to enhance the size and shape of your lips and you’re wondering ‘do lip fillers hurt’, you Read more
How Long Do Anti Wrinkle Injections Last? – Learn The Pros & Cons
how long do anti wrinkle injections last sydney

Also known as fillers or injectables, anti wrinkle injections have revolutionised anti-ageing and skincare, enabling patients to have a Read more
Dermal Filler Aftercare Instructions For Natural & Effective Results
dermal filler aftercare sydney

By following your surgeon’s instructions and dermal filler aftercare instructions carefully you can recover quickly and avoid many of the Read more
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last? Understanding The Considering Factors
how long do dermal fillers last sydney

Having dermal fillers is one way to address the loss of facial volume and the appearance of fine lines and Read more