There are a number of dermal fillers on the market these days, but at SlimmThicc Med Spa & Aesthetics, we use the Juvéderm family of products, which are hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers. Hyaluronic acid is a nutrient that is already naturally present in our body, but with aging, it gets depleted over time. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000 times its own weight in water, which is why it is such an incredible agent of hydration.

The Procedure

Dermal fillers are non-surgical injectable treatments, and like any skin injectable, they are administered via the use of very fine needles and in most cases contain lidocaine (a built-in anesthetic) so that you feel comfortable throughout the entire procedure.

Depending on what areas are being treated, dermal filler treatments can last anywhere from 30-60 minutes. There is no recovery time, so you can resume your normal activities immediately after your treatment.

Are dermal fillers for you?

We recommend that you book a complimentary in-person consultation with one of our expert injectors at SlimmThicc Med Spa & Aesthetics in San Diego, USA, to assess whether dermal filler treatment is right for you. Generally, anyone who is looking to add volume to their face or is looking to reduce the appearance of aging is a good candidate for this treatment. Which dermal filler you receive is really dependent on your goals and the advice of your injector.

During your consultation, you will need to be prepared to give your provider your full medical history (surgical procedures, chronic conditions, allergies, etc.), which should include a list of any medications you are currently taking both prescription and over-the-counter, including any vitamins or supplements.

Some medications such as blood thinners can increase bleeding or bruising, and medications as common as Advil and Ibuprofen should be discontinued at least one week prior to your treatment, as they too can cause bruising.

Who should not have dermal fillers?

Because the majority of dermal fillers used today are hyaluronic acid-based, allergic reactions are less common. That said, if you are allergic to any of the proteins used to make hyaluronic acid, have severe allergic reactions, are allergic to lidocaine (which is used in the topical anesthetic), or have a bleeding disorder or are generally prone to bleeding, you want to avoid getting dermal fillers.

If you have an injury near the site of injection, you will want to wait until that heals before scheduling your appointment. Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding or trying to get pregnant should also wait until after to get dermal fillers as the effects of dermal fillers on pregnancy and nursing are unknown.

When can I expect to see results?

Many patients see immediate results, though you should expect to see full results within 48 hours of treatment, and those results will last on average anywhere from 6-12 months.

Will I need more than one treatment?

The results of dermal fillers are long-lasting, anywhere from 6-12 months, so we recommend re-treating the area on average every 6 months in order to maintain your desired result. If you choose not to have subsequent dermal filler treatment, your skin will eventually return to its original state.

Are there any side effects?

There is really no downtime following dermal filler treatment. You can come in for a treatment and return to your regular activities immediately following your procedure.

You may experience some mild redness, swelling, sensitivity or tenderness, bruising, and/or itching at the site of injection. However, these symptoms should resolve themselves within a week of treatment and can easily be covered up with make-up following treatment.