Do Fillers Ruin Your Face: What You Need To Know

Disclaimer: Results vary and are illustrated as a guide only.

In today’s world, where looking and feeling your best is more attainable than ever, many people are exploring cosmetic treatments to maintain a youthful-looking appearance. Dermal fillers, particularly those with hyaluronic acid, have become a go-to solution for smoothing wrinkles and adding volume to their facial features. 

While they offer immediate results with minimal downtime, some are beginning to question the long-term impact these fillers might have on one’s appearance. In this article, we’ll delve into these concerns and explore alternative surgical options. 

What Are Dermal Fillers and How Do They Work?

Dermal fillers or injections for augmentation are used to add volume and improve facial contours. Most fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that attracts and retains moisture. When injected into the skin, fillers can plump up areas that have lost volume due to ageing, such as the cheeks, lips, and nasolabial folds.

Do Fillers Ruin Your Face?

When administered correctly by a skilled professional, they can produce natural-looking results. However, there are several considerations to keep in mind:

• Overuse and Misuse: Over time, repeated filler injections can lead to an unnatural appearance, often referred to as “pillow face.” This occurs when too much filler is used, causing the face to look bloated or distorted.
• Migration: Fillers can sometimes move from the original injection site, leading to an uneven or lumpy appearance.
• Skin Stretching: Continuous use of fillers can stretch the skin, leading to potential sagging once the filler dissolves.
• Scar Tissue: In rare cases, fillers can cause scar tissue to form, which can alter the texture and appearance of the skin.

Are Dermal Fillers Bad for You?

While fillers are generally considered safe, they do come with potential risks. Some people may experience side effects such as swelling, bruising, or allergic reactions. The long-term effects of fillers can vary depending on the type and amount of filler used, as well as individual skin characteristics. Over time, repeated use of fillers might lead to skin stretching or laxity, especially if large volumes are injected. 

What Happens When You Stop Using Dermal Fillers?

As the fillers dissolve, the volume and smoothness they provide will diminish, and the skin will gradually return to its pretreatment state. Depending on the amount and type of filler used, this process can take several months to a couple of years. Some people may notice changes in their skin’s appearance due to the reasons mentioned earlier, such as skin stretching or reduced elasticity.

Surgical Alternatives to Fillers

For those seeking longer-lasting results without the potential drawbacks of fillers, surgical options may be worth considering. Some alternatives include:

• Facelift: A surgical facelift can provide more dramatic changes by tightening sagging skin and redefining facial contours. This option is more invasive but offers longer-lasting results compared to fillers.
• Fat Grafting: Also known as fat transfer, this procedure involves taking fat from one part of the body and injecting it into areas that need volume. The results can be more natural and enduring than traditional fillers.
• Blepharoplasty: For those concerned with eye area ageing, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) can address issues such as droopy eyelids or bags under the eyes.
• Brow Lift: A brow lift can raise and tighten the forehead area, reducing wrinkles and improving the overall appearance of the upper face.

Each surgical option comes with its own set of considerations, including recovery time, potential risks, and costs. It’s crucial to consult with a board-certified surgeon to discuss your goals and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. 

If you want to know which treatment is for you, reach out to Artiste Plastic Surgery. Our Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Jack Zoumaras, can recommend a treatment plan based on your specific concerns. Schedule a consultation today. 

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.