Adding filler to your face in order to achieve a slimmer look may seem counter intuitive. Many people worry that the procedure will give them “big cheeks” and make their faces rounder in appearance. However, this is not the case.

Why not?

This is because our facial features inevitably change as we age. Common age-related changes include a weakened jawline, a double chin, sunken eyes, loose skin, and flattened cheekbones.

Changes to our facial structure can be attributed to a variety of factors that range from smoking to sleep deprivation, sun exposure, age-related bone loss, stress, or a combination of these factors.

Loss of elastin and collagen, however, are the main culprits of a weakening facial structure as we age. Moreover, as we lose facial volume caused by decreased collagen, our face can actually look heavier.

 In particular, the loss of fat pads beneath our skin’s surface contributes most to reduced facial volume. While facial fat is not typically perceived as a good thing by the general population, it is precisely what gives the face a structured, healthy appearance. Fat helps our face maintain its structure and, despite common belief, facial fat is necessary in order to achieve a slim facial appearance. Without it, unwanted signs of aging like sagging or loose skin, a double chin, and a weakened jawline appearance can occur.

 Because fat is so vital to healthy facial structure, getting dermal filler (also known as mid-face or cheek filler) can actually give the appearance of a slimmer, more defined face.

Dermal filler or cheek filler can define and slim the face because it can restore lost facial volume and structure in a way that is hard to replicate naturally. The use of dermal fillers may be successful even in young individuals. This is especially the case for younger individuals looking for a contoured and defined look that over-the-counter cosmetics can not provide.

What are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers or cheek fillers are a minimally invasive procedure involving cosmetic injections. They are typically made from hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally and already exists in the body. Hyaluronic acid is a natural lubricant, and its purpose is to help the skin remain hydrated and plump. In fact, hyaluronic acid can retain 1000 times its weight in water.

 The purpose of dermal fillers or cheek fillers is to restore lost facial volume. By injecting volume under your skin, dermal fillers or cheek fillers minimize fine lines and wrinkles beneath the skin. They also can enhance the appearance of your cheekbones.

Dermal fillers are placed intentionally to create a fuller but more contoured look. Results can last from six months to two years.

Who is a Good Candidate for Dermal Filler?

Dermal filler is not for everyone. The best candidates for this procedure typically have the following goals.

• more sculpted and defined facial features
• less facial sagging or loose skin
• replacement of lost facial volume

What are the Process and Recovery?

Getting dermal filler is typically a four step process.

• Evaluation

The specialist nurse will examine your face and determine which areas are in need of augmentation. These areas will be marked and photographed.

• Preparation

After your evaluation, your medical professional  will disinfect the marked areas of your face with antibacterial cleansers. They may either numb the marked sites using a cold instrument, apply a topical anesthetic, or inject the site of skin with local anesthesia. The procedure causes mild discomfort.

• Injection

Your specialist will then inject the hydraulic acid into each marked site. The sites will be massaged and evaluated. Additional injections may be added until achieving the desired result.

The process is relatively short, ranging from fifteen minutes to an hour.

• Aftercare and Recovery

After the procedure is completed, the marked sites will be cleansed. Your nurse may give you an ice pack to combat discomfort and swelling.

Recovery varies for each individual. You may experience discomfort and tenderness that lasts for a few days.  Most post procedure symptoms can be treated with icing and massage. Medication is not typically necessary. However, in some cases it may be required.

You will be able to return to most activities after your procedure. However, it is generally advised to refrain from intense physical activity for a day or two following your procedure. You should consult with your doctor to make a recovery plan before the procedure.

Are there any risks?

In addition to swelling and tenderness, you may experience the following symptoms immediately after treatment. These symptoms are common and do not require medical attention.

• Numbness or hyperpigmentation
• Mild bruising at injection sites
• Mild to moderate swelling

If these symptoms do not go away after a few days, however, you should consult a healthcare professional. In addition, if you are experiencing visual disturbances with weakness or pain on one side of the body, contact your provider immediately.

Final Thoughts

Dermal filler is generally a safe and minimally invasive procedure that provides lasting results. If you are looking to target loose skin or restore lost volume in your face, dermal fillers or mid-face fillers may be a good option for you. The best way to determine if dermal filler is suitable for you, however, is by contacting a cosmetic professional.

At Skin Emporium, a London-based medical aesthetic and skin clinic, our focus is on facial rejuvenation and restoration. We offer personalised services to meet your specific cosmetics goals and needs. We have qualified medical professionals and experienced specialists who can provide safe and effective treatment. We want you to feel safe, comfortable, and delighted by your cosmetic results.

If you are interested in dermal or cheek fillers, feel free to browse through our treatment options and specialised packages on our website.