What do I need to know about having dermal fillers?

Choosing the correct dermal filler is not as straightforward as, say, choosing a new skin cream. Fillers are injectable products, so you must ensure you are using the right one for your needs, which means consulting a qualified and experienced medical professional.

Why fillers must be injected by a medical expert

The reason why the injection must be carried out by a qualified and experienced medical professional is summed up by Rajiv Grover, former President of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons: “Aesthetic injectables should only ever be provided by medical professionals as dermal fillers have clear benefits but also risks – it is not just about who can wield a syringe but who will have the capabilities to deal with any possible complications.”

As an illustration of how important this is, the NHS Blood Transfusion Service will only accept blood donations from people who have had medical aesthetic treatment if the treatments have been undertaken by a registered medical professional. If treatments have been given by anyone not registered by the GMC, GDC or NMC, donations will be refused because it is considered to be high-risk behaviour.

An integral part of a qualified professional’s medical training will be the safe and hygienic handling of needles, as well as how to deal with possible side effects and complications.

A medically trained aesthetic practitioner has the training as well as the knowledge required to carry out a thorough consultation to make sure that you will be using the correct filler. They will fully understand human anatomy in order to be able to deliver the safest treatment possible. It is not as easy as choosing a brand you like as each product has different ingredients with different properties. By speaking to a professional who understands the difference between, say, Teosyal RHA4 and Teosyal Global Action, can be confident that you will be given the best advice when it comes to both aesthetic results and patient safety.

A trained professional will also take the time to explain what the treatment involves and what to expect in terms of recovery, as well as discuss the possible side effects. A thorough consultation will enable you to make an informed decision about the treatment you opt for, and if, after listening to all the options, you decide to think about things a bit longer or opt for no treatment at all, your decision will be respected. You must never feel pressurised into having a treatment.

Do your research

Using a reputable clinic is essential, as it is important to ensure your treatment is not carried out by an unqualified practitioner. Check out the team pages of a clinic’s website to make sure you will be using one with medically qualified staff members. It’s also a good idea to read online reviews (not just testimonials published on the clinic’s own website) and ask about the clinic’s insurance when you book an appointment.

The Skin to Love Clinic has won the Teosyal Outstanding Clinic Award for its work with dermal fillers. We pride ourselves on offering patients honest advice about all our non-surgical skin treatments. If you would like to talk to us before you book a consultation, please contact us or pop into our St Albans clinic to say hello.

Disclaimer: This blog is not to be used for diagnostic purposes. We are all unique which means that our results, recovery and suitability for any type of treatment will vary. Always seek the advice of a professional should you have any health or cosmetic concerns or to discuss treatments specifically for you.