Dermal Fillers: For Wrinkles, Lips & Facial Shaping: Melbourne
Quick Facts
- Dermal fillers can be used to revolumise areas of the face that have lost volume, or to non-surgically change the shape of the face
- Common areas for treatment with dermal fillers include; lips, cheeks, tear troughs, chin, nose, brows, nasolabial folds, mouth corners, and wrinkles (static wrinkles).
- There are a number of temporary dermal fillers available at The Victorian Cosmetic Institute lasting from 4 months to 2 years
- Filler types JU/JU+/ES/EB/R/P/RSQ/V can be reversed by injection of hyaluronidase if there are any problems
- Permanent fillers have an increased rate of serious complications such as infection and lumps and are not recommended at The Victorian Cosmetic Institute
- Treatment with dermal fillers involve firstly numbing the area to be treated, and then injecting the filler. There are usually some temporary side effects post-treatment, including redness, swelling, asymmetry and bruising.
- Dermal fillers are a safe and effective method of non-surgically shaping, volumising, lifting, and rejuvenating the face
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are used to fill or replace the lost volume in static
wrinkles, lines and folds. Unlike
anti-wrinkle injections, they do not affect facial muscle contraction. Generally, dermal fillers are used in the treatment of wrinkles, lines, and folds that appear at rest, rather than those that appear during facial expression. Wrinkles due to facial expression are best treated with anti-wrinkle injections.
Facial volume loss is one of the key factors in the ageing process, and dermal fillers can help to replenish this lost volume and rejuvenate the face.
Dermal fillers can also be used to
enhance, define, or enlarge lips, and to
shape and volumise the face by injection into cheeks, chins, and noses .
Certain types of dermal fillers available at The Victorian Cosmetic Institute cannot be fully named due to TGA restrictions. At The Victorian Cosmetic Institute, we only use temporary fillers lasting from 4 to 24 months, and some are composed of substances that are naturally found in the skin.
What is the best dermal filler for me?
The Victorian Cosmetic Institute offers a wide variety of dermal fillers, each suited to different applications. We will advise you on which dermal filler is best for you at the time of consultation. We use a combination of fillers lasting from 4 to 24 months. We do not advocate the use of permanent fillers as we believe that there is an increased risk of serious complications with these fillers including infection, granuloma formation (permanent lump formation that can occur even years after administration) requiring surgical removal, and filler misplacement.
Due to TGA regulations, the exact name of some of the dermal fillers used cannot be mentioned. Instead they will be termed;
Filler type C 0.5mL and 1.0mL
Filler type JU (with and without lidocaine) 0.8mL
Filler type JU + (with and without lidocaine) 0.8mL
Filler type ES 0.6mL and 1.0mL
Filler type EB 0.6mL and 1.0mL
Filler type V (NEW!) 2mL
Filler type R 0.5 and 1mL
Filler type P 1mL
Filler type RSQ 2mL
Radiesse 0.3mL and 1.3mL
Dermal fillers, type R and P are made from a clear gel composed of a substance that is naturally found in skin. They are usually injected into deeper lines or folds around the mouth, from the nose to the corners of the mouth, and are commonly used for
lip enhancement and facial shaping e.g for cheek enhancement, nose shaping, chin shaping, and
around the eye socket/tear troughs to fill out any hollowness there. This filler generally last for about 4 to 24 months depending on the area treated.
Dermal filler, filler type JU and JU+ from Allergan is made from a similar substance to type R and P. It is an excellent filler as it is softer than filler type R/P and has a more natural feel. It can be used in all the areas that filler type R/P can be used in, and it is especially suited to lip enhancement, as it tends to cause less swelling than other fillers and last for around 3 months longer than filler type R in the lips. It creates natural and soft lips and can be easily used to define and/or enlarge lips.
Allergan have recently released a new version of filler type JU and JU+ that has the local anaesthetic lidocaine blended into the filler. This significantly reduces the amount of pain during a filler procedure in those areas that are not anaesthetised with nerve blocks. It also allows fillers to be performed without nerve blocks should this be a preference of the patient. For example, it is possible to fill lips/nasolabial folds with minimal discomfort even without a nerve block.
For those wanting the volumisation of Radiesse, with the option of
reversibility, filler type RSQ or filler type V can be used. It is made
of a similar substance to filler type R/P/JU/JU+, but tends to be
thicker and more volumising. It is therefore suited to enhancing chins
and cheeks in particular. Because it is quite thick, it is not suitable
for finer areas like the nose, or around the eyes.
Furthermore, there is a substance called hyaluronidase
that can very quickly reverse filler types R/P / JU/JU+/RSQ and V, should there
be any misplacement of product, undesirable effect, or lumps. For more information on hyaluronidase, click here.
For fine lines, including vertical upper lip lines, especially, lines around the mouth and eyes, we can use a very fine white-coloured dermal filler (filler type C) that is injected very superficially. Filler type C was one of the original dermal fillers made and has been used for over 15 years. This dermal filler is made of a substance that is naturally found in skin. This generally does not last as long as the deeper dermal fillers, but does a much better job of filling fine lines. This fine dermal filler is derived from bovine sources and requires two test patchs in the forearm, at least 2 and 4 weeks prior to treatment in the face, to ensure that there are no allergies to the product. Approximately 3% of the population is allergic to filler type C.
More recently, fillers EB and ES are an alternative to filler type C. It is composed of a similar substance to fillers type JU/JU+ but is a lot softer and finer, and requires no pre-treatment skin testing like filler type C. Fillers EB/ES are highly suited to the treatment of fine lines and can also last longer than filler type C in these lines. It is also reversible with
hyaluronidase, should any product misplacement or lumps occur.
Radiesse is a new filler that is based on calcium microspheres that usually lasts for around 18 months. It is particularly suited to facial volumising in areas such as the cheeks, nasolabial lines, and mouth corners. It can be used for
chin and cheek enhancement, and even to shape
noses (for those who don't want to undergo surgery). Radiesse is an excellent filler for the nose, as it can last for a long period of time here and feels natural in this area. It is not suited to lips, or fine lines. Instead it is more suited to enhancing volume in larger skin folds, or areas of fat loss. Unlike fillers type R/P/JU/JU+/RSQ/V, it is not reversible with
hyaluronidase.
For more information on how the above dermal fillers are used in non-surgical facial shaping/lifting, click on this link to our non-surgical facial shaping page.
Case Study 1
This before and after case study is one of our doctors. She had her naso-labial lines (the lines from the corners of the mouth to the nose) filled with filler type JU+ 0.8mL. The after picture was taken approximately 2 weeks after the treatment.
Case Study 2
This lady was concerned with the wrinkles around her mouth. A total of 2 mL filler type R was injected into the wrinkles around the mouth, including some into the corners of the mouth to help turn the corners up.
What are the most common areas that dermal fillers are used and how long do they last?
|
Area
|
Filler used / longevity in this area*/no. of syringes required in this area**
|
|
Lips
|
Filler type JU / 6 to 12 months / 1 - 2 syringes
Filler type R / 6 to 9 months / 1 - 2 syringes |
|
Nasolabial folds
|
Filler type JU, JU+ / 6 months / 1 - 3 syringes
Filler type R, P / 6 months / 1 - 3 syringes
Filler type V, RSQ / 12 to 18 months / 1 syringe
Radiesse / 12 to 18 months / 1 (1.3mL) syringe |
|
Nose
|
Filler type R, JU / 6 months / 1 syringe
Radiesse / 12 to 18 months / 1 (1.3mL) syringes |
|
Cheeks
|
Filler type JU, JU+, R, P / 6 to 12 months / 2 - 4 syringes
Filler type V, RSQ / 12 to 18 months / 1 - 2 syringes
Radiesse / 12 to 18 months / 1 - 2 (1.3mL) syringes |
|
Vertical upper lip lines and other fine lines on face |
Filler type C / 4 months / 1 (0.5/1.0mL) syringe
Filler type EB/ES / 6 months / 1 (0.6/1.0mL) syringe |
|
Marionette lines/jowls/oral commissures |
Filler type JU, JU+, R, P / 4-6 months / 1 - 2 syringes
Filler type V, RSQ / 12 months / 1 syringe
Radiesse / 12 months / 1 (1.3mL) syringe
|
|
Chin
|
Filler type JU, JU+, R, P / 6 -12 months / 1 - 4 syringes
Filler type V, RSQ / 12 - 18 months / 1 - 2 syringes
Radiesse / 12 - 18 months / 1 - 2 (1.3mL) syringes |
|
Brows
|
Filler type JU, R / 12 - 18 months / 1 syringe |
|
Tear troughs
|
Filler type JU, R / 12 to 24 months / 1 syringe
Radiesse not recommended here at The Victorian Cosmetic Institute***
|
|
Frown lines
|
Filler type JU, R / 6 to 12 months / 1 syringe |
*Please note that filler longevity is variable from person to person and may last for a longer or shorter time than stated here.
**The number of syringes required for each area is to be used as a guide only.
*** Due to the irreversible nature of Radiesse, and the possbility of lumps in the tear troughs, it is not recommended in this area. We recommend reversible fillers only in this area.
For more information on the use of dermal fillers for non-surgical facial shaping of the face, click here.
Dermal fillers are most commonly used in the
lips, jowls, marionette lines, brows,
cheeks, chins, naso-labial folds (the fold from the nose to the corners of the mouth), and in permanent frown lines.
Other commonly treated areas with dermal fillers include
nose reshaping for those who do not want to undergo surgery, and also just under the
eyebrows to give an eyebrow lift or to fill out any hollows there.
Tear troughs, or the hollows that occur under the lower eyelid, can also be filled with fillers type JU/R. They help to smooth the transition between the lower eyelids and the cheek, and therefore reducing the appearance of under eye hollows and/or fatty buldges.
One of the most popular reasons for dermal filler use is
lip enhancement. Dermal fillers can be used to outline the border of the
lips to enhance the definition of lips or in the body of the lips to enhance lip size and pout. Filler type JU/JU+ is an excellent filler that is particularly suited to the lips due to its soft and malleable nature. It tends to last slightly longer than other equivalent fillers in the lips also. It tends to create less of a 'trout pout' or 'duck' look than other fillers in the lips.
Cheeks and naso-labial lines, or the lines that go from the corners of the mouth to the corners of the nose are usually filled with type R/P, JU/JU+/V/RSQ or Radiesse. Type R/P/ JU/JU+ tend to last a shorter time in this area (around 6 months) and are reversible, whereas Radiesse tends to last longer. Although more expensive, Radiesse tends to create more volumising of the fold, and lasts longer. RSQ and type V can also be used, and these fillers provide superior volumisation and the option of reversibility.
Finer lines are usually harder to fill with dermal fillers, and require finer fillers. Filler type C is suitable for fine lines, especially those around the mouth, but does not tend to last very long. Skin resurfacing with lasers is a good option for the reduction of fine lines as it is a more permanent option, but requires some recovery time.
What does treatment with dermal fillers involve?
During a consultation with one of our medical staff, we will discuss and advise you which fillers and which areas are best to treat. We will outline for you the amount of fillers required, the price, the side effects and the after-care required.
Treatment usually involves the application of local anaesthetic cream to the treated area or a nerve block prior to injection. The dermal filler is then comfortably injected into the treated area to fill out the line, wrinkle or fold. For those who are nervous about the procedure (this is very normal!) we can provide
nitrous oxide or 'laughing gas' to help settle your nerves and to help reduce any discomfort.
Treatment times vary depending on the amount of fillers required and the areas treated, but generally take from 30 to 60 minutes.
After treatment, it is possible to apply make-up if applicable, and to go about your normal activities. We usually ask you to refrain from heavy exercise however.
Treatment with dermal fillers sometimes does take more than one session
to get the best results. The first treatment lays the foundation for
the subsequent treatments, and future treatments allow for any
adjustments to be made.
What are the side effects of filler treatments?
There is usually some transient redness after the injections. Swelling is also present after the procedure, especially with any
lip enhancement procedure. Swelling of other areas post-treatment tends to temporarily enhance the effect of the dermal filler, and it often takes 3 or more days to see the actual real improvement without swelling.
Bruising can also occur, and if it does, it can take normally take a week or two to completely disappear. Make-up/lip stick can be worn (if applicable) soon after treatment should there be a need.
Asymmetry is also possible, but correctable on a subsequent visit.
Small lumps can occur, and these will either dissipate in a few weeks, or may require reversal with
hyaluronidase.
Note that if you have a history of cold sores and the treatment area is around the mouth, then you should notify your treating doctor as filler treatment can cause cold sore flare ups. You may be instructed to take anti-viral medications prior to treatment if this is the case.
Yes, there are few risks associated with the use of dermal fillers and few long-term side effects with the (temporary) fillers used at The Victorian Cosmetic Institute. Most fillers comprise of substances that are naturally present in the body. Dermal fillers have been used safely for cosmetic reasons for over 20 years.
Our opinion of permanent fillers is that their safety profile is not as high as temporary fillers. Permanent fillers have previously been fraught with complications such as severe infections and lump formation that requires surgical excision. No permanent fillers are used at The Victorian Cosmetic Institute.
How much do dermal fillers cost?
The cost of dermal fillers depends on the amount injected and the number of syringes injected per session.
Note: A 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% discount are offered on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th syringes respectively (for6 or more syringes, the discount is 50% thereafter) if performed in one sitting.
Table: cost of multiple syringes (done in one session)
|
Syringe no. / filler type
|
JU .8mL
JU+ .8mL
R / P 1mL
Radiesse 0.3mL
C 1.0mL
EB 1.0mL
ES 1.0mL
|
V 2mL
RSQ 2mL
Radiesse 1.3mL
|
R 0.5ml
C 0.5mL
EB 0.6mL
ES 0.6mL
|
|
1 | 740
| 1650
| 420
|
|
2
| 592 (20% off)
| 1155 (30% off)
| 336 (20% off)
|
|
3
| 518 (30% off)
| 825 (50% off)
| 294 (30% off)
|
|
4
| 444 (40% off)
| 825 (50% off)
| 252 (40% off)
|
|
5
| 370 (50% off)
| 825 (50% off)
| 210 (50% off)
|
- Prices inclusive of GST
- Most expensive fillers counted first.
- The discount is only applied for multiple syringes of filler in one session, not across different sessions.
- After 5 syringes, price of additional syringes is equal to price of 5th syringe
- When using V, RSQ, Radiesse 1.3mL in conjuction with the other fillers, V/RSQ/Radiesse 1.3mL count as 2 syringes of other fillers in the pricing structure e.g price of 1V + 1JU = 1650 + 518
- The amount/type of dermal fillers required is listed in the table above
Can dermal fillers be combined with anti-wrinkle injections?
Yes. Despite having different actions, they are commonly used together. In fact, anti-wrinkle injections often prolong the effect of dermal fillers. Anti-wrinkle injections relax the underlying muscle that causes expression lines, and dermal fillers provide volume to fill in static lines.
Why choose The Victorian Cosmetic Institute as your provider of dermal fillers?
Our dermal filler injectors have many years of specialist experience in the use of dermal fillers. We allow you ample time to communicate your aesthetic goals to us, and use our expertise to help you achieve your desired outcome. Furthermore, we offer a large range of dermal fillers and we will be able to best advise you on what dermal filler suits you best.
The first step is simply contacting us for your initial dermal filler consultation, where we will discuss with you what is a realistic and achievable outcome, and what to expect from your treatment.
Making that first phone call about any cosmetic procedure can be a confronting task - many of our patients have preferred filling out our online enquiry form. We can then contact you with an understanding of the results you are hopeful of achieving and ensure the treatment is appropriate.
It's as easy as clicking either of the buttons below and completing the provided form.
Otherwise, you can phone us directly on (03) 8850 0655 (Templestowe) or (03) 9707 0888 (Berwick).
