Dermal Filler

How it works

A gel, most often hyaluronic acid, is injected under the skin to restore volume, smooth folds or shape a feature. Some hyaluronic acid products can be dissolved with an enzyme if needed. Different products have different firmness, so the doctor picks one to match the area. Results last months to a couple of years depending on product and location, and vary by person.

Who it may suit

• Hollow or flat areas of the face
• Deep folds such as those beside the nose and mouth
• Shaping the chin, jawline or cheeks
• Visitors who want a visible result without surgery

The treatment day

1. Consultation and planning. The doctor assesses facial balance, discusses where volume is lost, and explains which areas are better left untreated.
2. Numbing and marking. Numbing cream may be used, and many fillers contain a local anesthetic. Injection points are marked.
3. Injection. The product is placed with a fine needle or a blunt cannula in small amounts, with checks on shape as it goes.
4. Review. The doctor may massage or adjust the result, and gives guidance on swelling, bruising and symptoms to watch for.

Aftercare

• Apply cold packs gently for short periods during the first day.
• Avoid pressing or massaging the area unless instructed.
• Skip intense exercise, alcohol, saunas and strong sun for about two days.
• Sleep with your head slightly raised for the first night.
• Check your skin in a mirror in the first days and report changes right away.

Things to know first

• Swelling, tenderness, lumps and bruising are common for a few days.
• Rarely, filler blocks a blood vessel (vascular occlusion), causing severe pain, blanching, dusky or mottled skin or vision changes. This is an emergency; contact the doctor or go to a hospital immediately.
• Lumps, asymmetry, infection and delayed nodules can occur.
• Not advised in pregnancy, breastfeeding, active infection in the area or known allergy to the product.
• Blood thinners and some supplements increase bruising; tell the doctor in advance.

Planning dermal filler around a Seoul trip

Treat early. Swelling usually settles over several days, but the shape can look different for up to two weeks, and a touch-up is easier if you are still in town. Leaving the visit for your final days gives little time to see the true result or to deal with any problem.

Know where you would go for help. Vascular warning signs are rare but time sensitive, so confirm how to reach the doctor outside appointment hours and keep a record of the product and areas treated. Mild bruising can be covered with makeup, though it may take a week to fade.