The Nitty Gritty…
If you’re reading this, you’ve probably given some thought to getting injectable fillers, right? The results are temptingly luscious and the process is (especially when compared to other rejuvenating treatments) fast. So much so, that people get it over lunch break!
Now, what do you need to know to achieve a glorious, healthy complexion using Dermal Fillers? Keep reading to draw up the best strategy. (You can even check out our other filler articles here and here for more in-depth deets!)
There are fillers and fillers – Different fillers are best for different jobs:
> Autologous fillers, such as grafting fat taken from another area in the body, or injecting your own plasma into the site. These methods are semi-permanent but have a higher risk of side effects and complications.
> Collagen fillers, good for a natural-looking, subtle, short-term change.
> Synthetic fillers, often a suspension of Calcium Hydroxyapatite, are long-lasting and sometimes chosen by doctors as a base to fill deep creases and hollows.
> Hyaluronic Acid fillers are most often the favourite resource to provide instant plumping in superficial areas, as well as for lip enhancement.
> Stimulation fillers (generally made of poly L-lactic acid) are the vanguard of innovation: doctors use them to prompt your skin to create rejuvenating substances all by itself over a longer period of time, creating long-lasting results naturally.
Achieving your best Natural Lips – And what’s best for your lips? How to volumize them into a pout that makes you feel vibrant? When choosing a doctor for your fillers, pay attention: what are their qualifications? Are they listening to your concerns? Do they have references and a portfolio you can examine? Does it look like they have an eye for aesthetics?
The process of lip enhancement has many technicalities. However, this is crucial: research shows that the perfect proportion for your lips to complement your face and still look natural is a ratio (of lower to upper lip) between 0.92 and 1.48. Also, it’s safest to enhance both lips, even if your goal is to increase volume in the upper one. Another key? Subtlety! Work with your doctor to develop an action plan. Start small: Manse Clinic recommend injecting 1ml at first, evaluating the results after a period of time, and only then continuing until you’re satisfied.
But what does it feel like? Many people are afraid of needles or, simply, put off by the thought of pain. But it’s really quite tolerable! The sensation is often likened to a weak injection. Of course, different treatment techniques will feel different. The fanning method, for example, involves sweeping the needle under the skin while injecting, which can be a little uncomfortable. Straight lip fillers? Not so much!
Afterward, of course, there is a little swelling and bruising, as well as other side-effects (like itching or sun sensitivity). It’s a bit uncomfortable, but (according to doctors Hopkirk, Sandhu, and Florida) they typically resolve within a week. Of course, there can be more serious side effects. In fact, the more long-lasting a product is, the more you should be wary of side-effects. If you notice any reactions, talk to your doctor immediately!
To Keep In Mind Other than paying keen attention to your potential doctor’s aesthetic eye and portfolio (see above!), keep an eye out for the state of their practice. Is it clean? Are customers and employees happy? Ask your doctor which products they use and whether they’ll be available for aftercare concerns.
If you feel in any way uncomfortable or distrustful, take note of that and keep looking for a different practitioner. Don’t Settle!
Also, information is gold: set out to become as knowledgeable you can. Being here is already a huge step! Search for products on the TGA Register to make sure they’re legal, write down all your questions for the doctor and don’t be shy about asking. For example, ask ‘Will I need medicine or special products for aftercare’, ‘What numbing agent do you use?’, ‘Is there something I should avoid in the days before the treatment?’
And don’t forget this: aftercare is just as crucial as the actual injections! You need to take care of your stressed skin and body. Why don’t you take a day’s rest to recuperate? It’s a good idea to stay well hydrated (even more than usual) and to have someone to drive you home and (hopefully!) take care of your needs for the rest of the day. Don’t exercise or lift heavy objects, avoid makeup, no hot yoga or sweaty environments. Your usual skincare routine needs a little shaking up too: steer clear of acid components and choose sensitive skin products that are labeled as safe for post-injection care.
With all these tools and knowledge, you’ll be rocking a natural, healthy look in no time!
