Dermal Fillers FAQs

Everything you need to know before your treatment

Considering dermal fillers? It's completely normal to have questions before deciding whether treatment is right for you.
 

Below you'll find answers to the questions I'm asked most often about lip fillers, cheek fillers, chin filler, jawline filler, marionette lines, nasolabial folds and liquid rhinoplasty.

If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
 

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable gels made from hyaluronic acid, a substance that naturally occurs in the body.

They are used to restore lost volume, enhance facial features, improve facial balance and soften lines while maintaining natural-looking results.
 

What areas can be treated with dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers can be used to enhance or restore:

• Lips

• Cheeks

• Chin

• Jawline

• Nasolabial folds (nose-to-mouth lines)

• Marionette lines

• Liquid rhinoplasty (non-surgical nose reshaping)

The most suitable treatment will be discussed during your consultation.
 

How long do dermal fillers last?

Most dermal fillers last between 6–18 months, depending on:

• Treatment area

• Product used

• Your metabolism

• Lifestyle

• Individual response

Some areas naturally break filler down faster than others.
 

Will I see results immediately?

Yes.

Results are visible immediately following treatment. However, mild swelling may temporarily affect the final appearance.

Your final result is usually seen after approximately 2 weeks, once swelling has settled.
 

Does the treatment hurt?

Most clients find treatment very manageable.

A topical numbing cream can be applied where appropriate, and many dermal fillers also contain a local anaesthetic to improve comfort during treatment.
 

Is there any downtime?

There is very little downtime.

You may experience:

• Swelling

• Redness

• Tenderness

• Mild bruising

These effects are temporary and usually settle within a few days.
 

How long does the appointment take?

Appointments usually take 30–60 minutes, depending on the treatment area and whether this is your first appointment.
 

Is a consultation required?

Yes.

Every client receives a comprehensive consultation before treatment.

This includes reviewing your medical history, discussing your concerns and goals, assessing your facial anatomy and ensuring treatment is both safe and appropriate.
 

Can I have dermal filler at my consultation?

In many cases, yes.

Unlike anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers are not Prescription Only Medicines, so treatment may be carried out on the same day if you are medically suitable and wish to proceed.

Some clients prefer to return for treatment at a later date after considering their options.
 

Who is not suitable for dermal fillers?

Treatment may not be suitable if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Have an active skin infection

• Have certain autoimmune or medical conditions

• Have allergies to any ingredients within the filler

• Are medically unsuitable following consultation

Suitability is always assessed before treatment.
 

What should I avoid after treatment?

For the first 24–48 hours avoid:

• Touching or massaging the treated area unless advised

• Heavy exercise

• Alcohol

• Saunas and steam rooms

• Excessive heat

• Makeup for several hours where possible

Full aftercare advice will be provided following treatment.
 

Will I still look natural?

Absolutely.

My philosophy is to enhance your natural features rather than change them.

Every treatment is tailored to your facial anatomy, proportions and aesthetic goals to achieve balanced, refreshed and natural-looking results.
 

Are dermal fillers safe?

When administered by a qualified medical professional using licensed products, dermal fillers have an excellent safety profile.

However, all injectable treatments carry risks, including bruising, swelling, infection and, in rare cases, vascular occlusion.

These risks, along with how they are recognised and managed, will always be discussed during your consultation.
 

What is vascular occlusion?

A vascular occlusion is a rare but serious complication where filler blocks the blood supply to an area.

Although uncommon, it is important that treatment is performed by a medically trained practitioner who is able to recognise the early signs and manage complications promptly using emergency protocols.

Patient safety is always my highest priority.
 

Can dermal fillers be dissolved?

Yes.

Most hyaluronic acid dermal fillers can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase if clinically indicated.

This may be necessary in the event of a complication or if a client wishes to reverse their treatment.
 

Will I look overfilled?

No.

My aim is always subtle, elegant enhancement.

I believe in working with your natural facial proportions and will never recommend treatment that I feel would create an overfilled or unnatural appearance.
 

Why choose Natalie Pillai Aesthetics?

As a registered nurse, every treatment is delivered using a medical-led approach with patient safety at the forefront.

I take time to understand your concerns, assess your facial anatomy and create a personalised treatment plan focused on achieving natural, balanced and confidence-boosting results.
 

Ready to book your consultation?

If you'd like to discuss dermal fillers or find out which treatment is right for you, get in touch today to arrange your consultation.