WHAT ARE VOlUME FILLERS?

Volume fillers are products designed to provide fullness to areas that have lost significant tissue through aging or weight loss. They are placed deeper than dermal fillers and allow softer, rounder facial contours and hence more youthful looks. There are a number on the market, yet we have found that the calcium ion premixed types are the most effective and safest. These products have calcium ion spheres that are suspended in an aqueous gel. Once injected the gel dissolves over 3 months enticing the body to fill the area with its own collagen. The result is a filling effect that can last 12 to 18months. Consequently volume fillers are often known as long term fillers.

IS IT SAFE?  WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

Calcium ion based volume fillers are extremely safe. They are a naturally occurring substance found in the body and have been used in orthopaedic implants for at least 10 years. Since it is non-human and non-animal derived the risk of allergy is low, as are lumps and infections. In fact, the only real side effects that we have seen is minor discomfort, bruising and swelling that settle usually within days.

HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?

The calcium ion products can last up to 18 months, making it great for those who are not fond of needles.

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WHAT IS THE COST?

Volume fillers are made from highly purified products that are screened for disease and monitored for quality.  They should only be injected by professionals who are adequately qualified.  Their costs reflect the high standards of production and care in which they are given.  They are particularly cost efficient given that one syringe often goes further than the equivalent amount of dermal filler and that over 18 months some patients may return 3 or 4 times for a dermal filler but only once for a volume filler. Of course the cost is dependent upon the amount used, which will depend upon the status of the skin and the desired result. 

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IN WHICH AREAS CAN I GET IT?

Volume fillers are used where ever there is a deficit. For example, the naso-labial and marionette lines, to rebuild cheeks, around the mouth for smoker’s lines, to reshape chins and noses or to even help lift eyebrows.

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CAN ANYONE TELL THAT I HAVE HAD A TREATMENT?

Initially it may be possible that patients can experience some temporary side effects as discussed. But these are short lasting.  Our doctor recommends that the first treatment should be carried out when the patient has time to go home and relax and not within 2 weeks of an important social engagement. Most patients come in work breaks and return immediately to work after treatment, or continue on with their normal social activities.  The effect of the treatment will depend upon what the patient hopes to achieve, the amount of product placed in and the status of the skin.  The result can be made as obvious or as subtle as desired.

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More photos available during consultation.