Getting any kind of procedure, whether invasive or non-invasive, can be intimidating. One of the best ways to alleviate those worries is to research. Equipping yourself with the knowledge needed when it comes to these procedures can not only save you a lot of money but also literally save you, as you get to understand the benefits and risks that come with your procedure of choice.

One such procedure is Dermal Fillers. Fillers is a gateway procedure for a lot of people. It’s a quick injectable that gives you almost instantaneous results. But of course, it’s still something foreign that you’re introducing to your body so it’s only natural to have a lot of questions. And chances are, you’ve already asked your friends about their own experience or even done a deep dive, looking at countless videos on social media platforms about the procedure.

While all these might be helpful, it’s still best to consult an expert in the field! A doctor will always be the best reliable source for knowing more about cosmetic procedures besides reading scientific journals on the topic.

Even though a personal consultation with a doctor is best, it can be quite intimidating so we’re working around that and giving you the next big thing. We asked a doctor who is nothing short of an artist when it comes to his work, to give us the lowdown on some of the most asked questions about fillers, condensed to its simplest form. Dr. Cyril Agan is a seasoned aesthetic physician who specializes in non-surgical injectable treatments like fillers, toxins, and threads. He earned his medical degree from the University of the Philippines and honed his skills in injectables at a prestigious Plastic Surgery Clinic in Miami. He currently does his practice at his clinic, Lift Aesthetics, which he owns together with marketing director, Jan Conadera.

Dr. Cyril Agan of Lift Aesthetics

Their clinic is known for innovative procedures such as “Sexy Jaw” and “Immortal Eyes” and they also introduced Aptos, a leading medical aesthetic brand for minimally invasive thread treatments enhancing facial and bodily features, widely used in over 50 countries, to the Philippines. With years and years of experience, his handiwork is seen from top models like Cass Laforteza, Jessica Yang, and Jach Manere to internationally-recognized drag queens like Marina Summers, Eva Le Queen, and Paolo Ballesteros a.k.a. Mama Pao.

Read on to see his take on some of the most asked queries about fillers.What are fillers made of?

Fillers are made up of Hyaluronic Acid, which is a naturally occurring substance in our body. This helps give structure and support to the face, giving hydration and biostimulation.

How long does it last?

Hyaluronic Acid fillers may last one to two years. This will depend on the type of filler and the area where it is injected. Every person will also metabolize it at different rates, so it may also vary.

Are there any treatments you cannot do once you have fillers?

There is no restriction to other treatments for as long as there is no active inflammation in the skin. Normally just a day's rest.

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What’s the pre and post-care like?

Before the treatment, blood thinners must be avoided (at least three days before the treatment). After the treatment, do not massage the areas of injection. Wash the face gently—no physical strenuous activity just within the day.

What is the cost of one session?

Fillers cost Php 24,000 per 1ml/1.2ml per syringe. The number of syringes/amount of filler will depend on the patient’s goals and the area being treated.

What are some potential risks of fillers?

Filler treatments may cause temporary reactions due to the injection, such as needle marks, redness, bruising, or swelling. These are usually mild, temporary, and spontaneously resolve in two days. Vascular compromise, infection, lumpiness, and symmetry are rare complications and prompt follow-up is necessary to reverse the adverse events.

At what age can you start getting fillers?

Young patients (i.e. 20s) can already start filler injections to enhance facial features (beautification).

What body or facial parts can you get fillers?

Dermal fillers are commonly used to accentuate certain facial features like chin and jawline, nose, lips, cheeks, under eye, nasolabial folds, scars, and forehead.

Are fillers permanent?

Hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary and get degraded by the body’s natural enzymes. At an average, it degrades at one to two years, but it may vary and can sometimes last longer.

Does it hurt to get the procedure?

Generally, the procedure is not painful. It may sometimes have minimal discomfort but bearable. Fillers themselves have lidocaine mixed with the HA, so procedures are made comfortable.

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What are the main benefits of getting fillers?

Fillers can help shape and improve facial features by creating structure and giving projection. This helps beautify the face by creating harmony, balance, and proportion. It can give volume where ageing and volume loss are evident. It can also help rejuvenate the skin in ageing patients.

How are your fillers different from fillers?

All fillers used at Lift Aesthetic Clinic are approved by the FDA. We use European brands that are known for superior quality, safety, good tissue integration, and longevity. Every patient and part of the face would require different kinds of fillers with different properties. We make sure that those used at the clinic are the best for the specific indications.

What are the immediate effects of fillers?

Immediate effects include an increase in volume, projection, and augmentation of specific facial features. These are seen instant and even improve over time.

Are there different types of fillers?

Yes, there are different kinds of fillers. Non-permanent or absorbable fillers are the safest. Among these, hyaluronic acid (HA) will be the best. Its safety profile is the most established. Results are consistent and reproducible. In the event of undesirable outcomes, it may be reversed by injecting hyaluronidase which is an enzyme that breaks down HA.

How does one choose what kind of fillers they need?

It will depend on what the patient desires to achieve. Every part of the face requires fillers with specific properties. Different fillers will also be used for different layers of the skin. Upon assessment, the most appropriate filler/s will be used.

Who can’t get fillers?

While dermal fillers are generally safe, they are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, anyone with autoimmune illnesses, individuals who have allergies, or those who have bleeding issues.

How does it feel to have fillers?

During the procedure, no pain to slight discomfort may be felt. Immediately after, there might be minimal tenderness which will not interfere with the patient’s daily activity. Once fully healed, it will feel normal, and as if it is not there.

What are the long-term effects?

Long-term effects include improvement of skin quality, hydration, and an increase in collagen production.

How can I make my fillers last?

No actual measure is known to make fillers last. Every patient is different thus, personal factors play a role. Maintaining good skincare and a healthy lifestyle is said to improve facial outcomes.

Can I put any lip products or skincare on after getting fillers?

We generally avoid skincare products 24 hours after injection. Mild moisturizer and sunscreen may still be used in areas without active inflammation.

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