Dermal Fillers: For Wrinkles, Lips & Facial Shaping: Melbourne

Quick Facts 

 

What are dermal fillers?







Dermal fillers are used to revolumise the face. Lost volume may manifest as a fold, wrinkle, flattening or shriveling of an area. 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 for non-surgical facial enhancement, including;

Certain types of dermal fillers available at The Victorian Cosmetic Institute cannot be fully named due to TGA restrictions and will have their names abbreviated on this website. 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.

Dermal fillers are commonly used in conjunction with anti-wrinkle injections that help to relax the muscles of facial expression.

Case Study 1

 

This patient, also seen on the video above, presented to The Victorian Cosmetic Institute for dermal filler treatment. She had treatment of the full face with filler type JU/JU+. The main goal was to rejuvenate the face naturally without surgery. Dermal fillers were used to;

  • Enhance the cheeks by replacing lost volume and lifting the cheeks
  • Reduce the appearance of eye hollows/ eyebags by placing fillers in the tear troughs to smooth the transition of the lower eyelid to the cheek
  • Hide the jowls by placing fillers along the jawline, and mouth corners
  • Straighten the nose by putting dermal filler in areas of deficit in the nose
  • Enhance the lips - to replace lost volume there and define her lips without over enlargement

What is the best dermal filler for me? 

The Victorian Cosmetic Institute offers a wide variety of dermal fillers, lasting from 4 to 24 months.  Each filler is suited to different applications and we will advise you on which dermal filler is best for you at the time of consultation.  

Due to TGA regulations, the exact name of some of the dermal fillers used cannot be mentioned. Instead they will be termed;

Filler type JU (0.8mL), Filler type JU+ (0.8mL), Filler type JRefine (0.6mL)

Filler type V  (2mL)

Filler type R  (0.5 and 1mL)  Filler type P  (1mL)

Filler type RSQ

Filler type RVL (2mL), Filler type RSQ  (2mL)

Filler type E (1mL), Filler type M (2mL) 

Radiesse (0.3mL and 1.3mL)

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.

Dermal fillers, type JU, JU+, JRefine, V, E, M, R, P, RVL, and RSQ (highlighted above in green) are made from a clear gel composed of a substance that is naturally found in skin. Being a natural product means that the risk of problems such as allergies are greatly minimised. The main differences between these fillers are their thickness, viscosity, and longevity. The finer and smoother ones tend to not last as long, whilst the thicker viscous fillers last longer. Finer fillers are generally used in areas where the skin is fine and smoothness is critical, such as around the eyes or upper lip.  These fillers are very fine and can be placed superficially in the skin without causing lumps. The thicker fillers are used for more bulk revolumisation of areas such as the cheeks, or jawline. They are typically injected deeper than the finer fillers.

Most of these fillers also contain Lidocaine, a local anaesthetic, which is blended into the filler.  This can significantly reduces the amount of pain during a filler procedure; there is less injection pain, and it mildly numbs the skin where it is injected. It is possible to fill  a sensitive area like the lips with minimal discomfort - even without a a nerve block to numb the areas prior to treatment.

Radiesse is filler that is based on calcium microspheres that usually lasts for around 12-18 months. It is particularly suited to facial volumising in areas such as the chin, nose and mouth corners as it is slightly firmer than the other filler types. It cannot, however, be used close to the eye orbit (e.g tear troughs) or in lips.

Case Study 2

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 - Dermal Fillers


Case Study 3

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, M / 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 (0.3mL) syringes

Cheeks

Filler type JU, JU+, R, P / 6 to 12 months / 2 - 4 syringes

Filler type V, RSQ, M  / 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 JRefine / RVL / 6 months / 1 syringe

Marionette lines/jowls/oral commissures

Filler type  JU, JU+, R, P / 4-6 months / 1 - 2 syringes

Filler type V, RSQ , M / 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, M / 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 JRefine, JU, R, RVL / 12 to 24 months / 1 syringe

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 possibility of lumps in the tear troughs, it is not recommended in this area. We recommend reversible fillers only in this area.

 

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 JRefine/JU/R / RVL. 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 bulges.

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/M 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 JRefine/ JU / E  are suitable for fine lines, especially those around the mouth. 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 on the best filler and treatment areas for you, after a careful aesthetic assessment. We will outline for you the amount of fillers required, the price, the side effects and the after-care required.

Treatment may sometimes involve the application of topical local anaesthetic cream or  a nerve block prior to injection of filler. The dermal filler is comfortably injected into the treated area. 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.

Fillers can be injected with either a needle or a cannula, and the above video describes the key differences here.

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 dissolving 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.

Are dermal fillers safe? 

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 type of filler injected. Note: A tiered discount is offered on subsequent syringes if performed in one sitting.

Table: cost of using Different filler groups in the same sesstion (done in one session):

Syringe no.  / filler type
Group A Fillers
V (2mL)

RSQ (2mL)


Radiesse (1.3mL)

Type M 
 Group B fillers
JU (0.8mL)
JU+ (.8mL)
JUR (0.6mL)
R / P (1mL)
Radiesse (0.3mL)
RVL (2mL)

E (1ml

Group C fillers

R (0.5ml)

JU (0.4mL)

 1st syringe
1750790450
 2nd syringe
1225 (30% off) 632 (20% off)N/A (use group A or B fillers instead)
 3rd syringe
875 (50% off)553 (30% off)N/A (use group A or B fillers instead)
 4th syringe and above
875 (50% off)474 (40% off)N/A (use group A or B fillers instead)
  • Prices inclusive of GST
  • Most expensive fillers counted first.
  • 1 syringe of Group A filler is counted as 2 syringes Group B filler for discount structure e.g. price of 1 V + 1 JU = $1750 + $553  = $2303 (1st syringe price) + (3rd syringe price) = $2303

Table: cost of using same filler group in same session:

Syringe no.  / filler type
Group A Fillers
V (2mL)

RSQ (2mL)


Radiesse (1.3mL)

Type M
Group B fillers
JU (0.8mL)
JU+ (.8mL)
JUR (0.6mL)
R / P (1mL)
Radiesse (0.3mL)
RVL (2mL)

E (1mL)

Group C fillers

R (0.5ml)

JU (0.4mL)

 1 syringe only
1750790450
 2 syringes
29751422N/A (use group A or B fillers instead)
 3 syringes
38501975N/A (use group A or B fillers instead)
 4 syringes   
47252449N/A (use group A or B fillers instead)
5 syringes
5600 2923N/A (use group A or B fillers instead)

Additional syringes

875 each above 5 syringes

 474 each above 5 syringes

N/A (use group A or B fillers instead)

Filler Examples

If the above filler pricelist was a bit confusing...here are some examples of what is commomly used, and what it is used for:

Fillers used (in one session)

Examples of treatment area              

Price for Package

Type JU  1 syringe       

Lips and tear troughs

790

Type JU+ 1 syringe

Mouth corners and around jowls

790

Type JU+ 2 syringes

Cheeks, tear troughs

1422

Type V

Lower face OR cheeks

1750

Type V 2 syringes

Cheeks and lower face

2975

Type V 1 syringe and Type JR 1 syringe

Cheeks and tear troughs

2303

Type V 2 syringes and JR 1 syringe

Cheeks, tear troughs, lower face

3449

Type M 1 syringe and Type E

Cheeks and lips

2303

Type M 2 syringes

Cheeks and lower face

2975

Type R 1.3mL

Nose and chin

1750

Type R 0.3mL

Nose

790

Find out more about the application of Dermal Fillers in Facial Rejuvenation

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.

Our goals with your filler treatment are to;

  • Provide you with a careful and honest aesthetic assessment
  • Achieve the best aesthetic result possible
  • Cause as little bruising and swelling as possible
  • Ensure that your procedure is as comfortable as possible for you.

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).