Filler : A Comprehensive Guide Before Making Your Decision

Are Dermal Fillers Dangerous?

A common concern regarding dermal filler treatment is its potential risk. In reality, the safest type of filler, approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is Hyaluronic Acid (HA). This substance is highly safe and widely utilized in both medical and aesthetic applications. A significant advantage of HA fillers is that they are 100% biodegradable and do not accumulate within the body. Should you wish to undergo a subsequent treatment, it can be performed safely without associated risks.

Are Dermal Fillers Dangerous?

In medical practice, dermal fillers are primarily categorized into four main types:

1. Hyaluronic Acid (HA): Known for its high safety profile and ability to be naturally metabolized by the body, HA is the most widely used type of filler.
2. Collagen (Animal-derived): This type is now less commonly used due to associated risks of allergic reactions and swelling.
3. Fat Transfer (Autologous Fat Grafting): This technique is suitable for individuals requiring substantial volume enhancement, typically in the range of 10-20 CC.
4. Biosynthetic Polymers (e.g., Liquid Silicone): These are non-biodegradable substances. They are not considered safe and lack approval from regulatory bodies like the FDA.

In Thailand, the only fillers legally authorized and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are genuine Hyaluronic Acid-based products. Several trusted brands are available, and a qualified physician will select the most appropriate one based on the specific treatment area and desired outcome to ensure aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking results.

Therefore, diller injection is not a dangerous procedure when performed at a certified clinic, using authentic fillers, and administered by an experienced physician. Under these conditions, the risks are minimal, and the outcomes are safe and satisfactory.

Dangers of Counterfeit Fillers

A critical concern to be aware of is the injection of counterfeit fillers, which is a primary cause of severe complications. These unapproved substances can lead to adverse effects such as the formation of hard lumps, migration from the original injection site, and uneven skin texture. More seriously, they can cause inflammatory reactions, infections, swelling, redness, or severe allergic responses. In the most severe cases, complications can include tissue necrosis (tissue death) or permanent vision loss due to vascular occlusion.

It is imperative to ensure that treatments are performed with genuine, regulatory-approved products by qualified medical professionals to mitigate these significant risks.

Counterfeit fillers are typically low-cost products that are illegally imported without regulatory approval from the FDA. These substances are non-biodegradable, meaning the body cannot naturally dissolve them. Should complications arise from their use, corrective measures are limited to surgical intervention or extraction procedures, which carry significantly higher risks and complexities.

In summary, dermal filler treatment is not dangerous when performed using genuine, FDA-approved Hyaluronic Acid (HA) products and administered by a qualified medical expert. The primary danger lies in the use of counterfeit fillers or receiving injections from individuals without proper medical training.

Recommended Volume (CC) Required Per Treatment Area

The volume of filler required varies for each location, depending on skin structure and individual patient needs. A physician will provide a personalized assessment to recommend the most appropriate volume for a clear and natural-looking outcome.

• Forehead: 2–4 CC
• Temples: 1–2 CC
• Cheeks: 1–2 CC
• Nose: 1 CC
• Lips: 1–2 CC
• Under-Eyes: 1–2 CC
• Cheekbones: 1–2 CC
• Nasolabial Folds: 1–2 CC
• Chin: 2–4 CC

Areas with significant volume loss or deep folds, such as the temples or forehead, typically require a larger volume than smaller areas like the under-eyes. It is not necessary to achieve the full result in a single session; volume can be gradually built up in subsequent appointments to refine the outcome for a balanced, harmonious result.

Benefits of Dermal Filler Treatments

Effectively replenishes wrinkles and deep folds for a instantly more youthful appearance.

• Delivers rapid results without surgery or downtime.
• Utilizes Hyaluronic Acid, which is FDA-approved, safe, and fully biodegradable.
• Adjustable; if dissatisfied, fillers can be dissolved, or more can be added as needed.
• Results are natural-looking and customizable to the individual.
• Precisely addresses delicate areas like the under-eyes and nasolabial folds.

How to Identify Authentic Fillers

Ensuring treatment safety begins with verifying that the products used are authentic fillers, legally imported and distributed in Thailand. Patients can confirm this through the following key indicators:

1. The product box must clearly display a Thai FDA registration number.
2. It must include packaging literature and instructions in the Thai language with complete details.
3. The Lot Number on the box, packaging, certificate, and filler syringe must all match without discrepancy.
4. This Lot Number should be verifiable for traceability directly with the importing company.

These verification steps provide confidence that the filler is a quality, safe, FDA-approved product, and not a counterfeit that could pose significant future risks.

Pre- and Post-Treatment Care Instructions

Adhering to pre- and post-procedure guidelines is crucial for optimal results and safety.

Pre-Treatment Preparation

1. Choose an accredited medical facility with an experienced physician using certified products.
2. Discontinue medications and supplements that affect blood clotting (e.g., Aspirin, Vitamin E, Ginseng, Garlic, Ginkgo Biloba) for at least one week prior.
3. Avoid using topical exfoliants and shaving the treatment area beforehand.
4. Allow at least a 3-day interval between laser treatments, facial massages, and your filler appointment.
5. Disclose your full medical history and current medications to your physician during the consultation.
6. Topical anesthetic can be applied to minimize discomfort during the procedure.

The Treatment Process

1. Consultation with the physician to assess your skin and select the appropriate filler.
2. Thorough cleansing of the treatment area.
3. Joint verification of the filler product with your physician before use.
4. Application of cold compresses for comfort.
5. Receiving detailed post-treatment care instructions.

Potential Post-Treatment Effects

1. Redness or needle marks may appear but typically subside within 2-3 days.
2. Swelling will gradually decrease, with the filler fully settling into its final, natural appearance within 1-2 weeks.

Post-Treatment Guidelines

1. Avoid touching or massaging the treated area.
2. Contact your physician if significant or unusual swelling occurs after 3 days.
3. Take any prescribed medications as directed.
4. Avoid intense physical activity and heat exposure (saunas, hot yoga) for 48 hours.
5. Refrain from deep laser treatments for one month.
6. Be mindful of excessive facial movements for the first 3 days.
7. Avoid alcohol and foods that may promote inflammation.
8. Refrain from smoking to support long-lasting results.

Conclusion: Strict adherence to these pre- and post-care instructions is fundamental to achieving optimal aesthetic outcomes and ensuring the safe and effective use of dermal fillers.