Kai EDITION - A Comprehensive Guide To Dermal Filler Treatments
Dermal fillers are injectable treatments used primarily to restore volume, enhance facial contours, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They are among the most popular aesthetic procedures, providing a non-surgical solution to enhance facial features and reverse signs of aging. The primary function of dermal fillers is to plump up areas where volume has been lost due to aging or where natural contour enhancement is desired.
1. What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin. They work by filling in wrinkles, adding volume, and enhancing facial contours. Depending on the type of filler, they may stimulate collagen production, hydrate the skin, or provide immediate volumizing effects.
Common Uses of Dermal Fillers:
Smoothing wrinkles and creases
Restoring volume to sunken cheeks or temples
Plumping thin lips
Enhancing facial contours, such as the jawline or chin
Filling in scars and depressions
2. Different Types of Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers come in various formulations, each designed for specific purposes and areas. Here are the most commonly used types:
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
What it is: HA is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that keeps it hydrated and plump.
Longevity: 6-18 months depending on the formulation and treatment area.
Advantages: HA fillers are reversible using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. They offer natural-looking results and are among the safest filler types.
At Kai Clinic, we do not use the following fillers because they are not reversible and/or perminant:
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers: A thicker filler used for deeper wrinkles and contouring. It stimulates collagen production and lasts 12-18 months.
Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers: A biodegradable filler that gradually stimulates collagen production, with results lasting up to 2 years.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillers: A semi-permanent filler used for long-lasting volumization and deep wrinkles. Its effects are permanent and not reversible.
Autologous Fat Transfer: Involves injecting fat from other body areas for permanent volumization. However, some fat may be reabsorbed by the body, and the procedure is not reversible.
3. Areas of the Face Dermal Fillers Can Be Used
Lips: For volumization, defining the lip borders, and correcting asymmetry.
Cheeks: Restores lost volume due to aging, gives a more youthful appearance, and enhances cheek contours.
Nasolabial Folds: These deep folds running from the nose to the corners of the mouth can be softened with fillers.
Marionette Lines: Fillers can smooth the lines that run from the corners of the mouth to the chin.
Tear Troughs (Under-Eye Hollows): Fillers can correct sunken or hollow areas under the eyes, making you look less tired.
Chin and Jawline: Fillers can add structure, enhance contours, and provide a more defined jawline.
Nose (Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty): Fillers can correct small bumps, asymmetry, or augment the shape of the nose.
Temples: Volume loss in the temples can lead to a hollow appearance, which fillers can restore.
Forehead: In some cases, fillers can smooth out horizontal lines on the forehead.
4. Major Risks and Complications of Dermal Fillers
While dermal fillers are generally safe when performed by a qualified professional, there are risks and potential complications that patients should be aware of.
Common Side Effects
Swelling and Bruising: Temporary and usually resolves within a few days.
Redness or Tenderness: This can occur at the injection site but should subside quickly.
Asymmetry: If the filler is unevenly distributed, it can lead to an asymmetrical appearance.
More Serious (RARE) Complications
Allergic Reactions (<0.1% risk): Rare but possible, especially with synthetic fillers like PMMA or PLLA.
Lumps and Nodules (0.1-1% risk): These can form if the filler is injected improperly or if the body reacts to the material.
Migration of the Filler (1-3% risk): Occasionally, fillers can move from the intended area, resulting in unwanted contour changes.
Infection (0.04-0.2%): Although rare, infection is a risk whenever the skin is punctured.
Tissue Necrosis (0.01-0.1%): If the filler is accidentally injected into a blood vessel, it can block blood flow, leading to tissue death. This is a serious complication requiring immediate treatment.
Blindness (1 in 100,000): In very rare cases, if the filler is injected into or near an artery that supplies blood to the eyes, it can result in blindness.
Granulomas (0.01-0.1%): These are small lumps that form under the skin due to the body’s reaction to a foreign substance.
Vascular occlusion (1 in 6,000 to 1 in 10,000 risk): is a serious risk associated with dermal filler injections, occurring when the filler unintentionally blocks a blood vessel. This can restrict blood flow to surrounding tissues, leading to symptoms such as pain, blanching (pale skin), and potential skin damage or tissue necrosis if not treated promptly. In severe cases, it can result in permanent scarring or even blindness if the blockage affects blood vessels supplying the eyes. Early detection and immediate intervention, such as using hyaluronidase to dissolve the filler, are crucial in preventing long-term damage. This is why choosing an experienced practitioner is essential to minimize the risk.
Statistics sources from numerous peer-reviewed articles in: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology and JAMA Dermatology, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) guidelines, JAMA Ophthalmology and Aesthetic Surgery Journal and Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy.
Reversibility
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase if complications arise or if the patient is unsatisfied with the results.
Non-HA Fillers (CaHA, PLLA, PMMA): These are not reversible, so care must be taken during the injection process. Corrections or removals may require surgical intervention.
5. Choosing a Qualified Practitioner at Kai Clinic
At Kai Clinic, patient safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. With years of experience in medical aesthetics, our team of highly trained professionals is committed to delivering safe, natural-looking results. We pride ourselves on our ethical approach, ensuring that every treatment is tailored to the individual needs of our clients. Our expertise in facial anatomy, combined with advanced injection techniques, allows us to minimize risks and achieve the best outcomes.
We conduct thorough consultations, offering honest and transparent advice about what will work best for you, based on your unique facial structure and aesthetic goals. At Kai Clinic, we believe in enhancing your natural beauty, not altering it. Our deep commitment to using only reversible fillers reflects our dedication to patient safety and the highest standards of care.
To see our range of dermal filler treatments please see: SCULPT, SHAPE, ENHANCE, CHISEL and LIFT. To see our dermal filler reversal treatments please see: RESTORE.
