FAQs
Anti-Wrinkle Injections
How long does it take to work?
You may start to notice changes after 3 days; however, it can take up to 14 days to see the full effect.
How long does it last?
Results usually last around 3–4 months, although everyone is different. The effect peaks around 6–8 weeks before movement gradually begins to return.
Factors affecting longevity:
- Individual factors (genetics, metabolism, natural muscle size and strength)
- Lifestyle factors (smoking, regular intense exercise)
Are there any side effects?
Some side effects can occur after anti-wrinkle treatment, but these are usually mild and not everyone experiences them.
This may include mild bruising or headache.
Less commonly, there may be asymmetry in the treated area or a drooping eyelid/eyebrow if the product affects an unintended muscle. With precise treatment and sound anatomical knowledge, these side effects are rare and always temporary. All potential side effects and risks will be explained in detail at your consultation.
Who can’t get anti-wrinkle treatment?
Botulinum toxin injections are contraindicated for:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- People with an allergy to Botulinum toxin products
- People with neuromuscular transmission disorders (e.g., Myasthenia Gravis)
- People with a wound or infection at the injection site
Is there any downtime with Anti-Wrinkle Injections?
There’s little to no downtime. You may notice slight redness or small bumps that usually resolve within 30 minutes. Avoid lying flat for at least 4 hours, and avoid heavy exercise, saunas, and alcohol for 24 hours.
Will it look obvious or unnatural?
I carefully tailor your treatment based on your goals and clinical judgement. My approach is conservative to ensure refreshed, natural-looking results. If needed, we can top up at your follow-up appointment.
Skin Boosters
Who are skin boosters suitable for?
The following people cannot have skin boosters:
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Those with a known allergy to hyaluronic acid, lidocaine or bee stings
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Pregnant and breastfeeding women
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Those with an active flare up of a chronic illness or skin condition
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Those with active cold sores, facial wounds or infection
Is it the same as dermal filler?
No, they don’t have the thick, gel like consistency that dermal fillers have. Skin boosters improve the quality of the skin, while dermal fillers improve the shape and structure of the face.
Is the treatment painful?
As with any injectable treatment, there can be a bit of discomfort at times. The needles used for these treatments are very fine and numbing cream is applied to the skin prior, so most people find it very manageable.
Is there any downtime with Skin Boosters?
You may experience slight redness or swelling for a few hours after the treatment. Mild bruising can occur, which should fade within the week. It is recommended to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and blood-thinning medications in the lead-up to your appointment. After treatment, you should avoid drinking alcohol and wearing make up for 24 hours. Avoid intense exercise, saunas, and putting pressure on the treated area.
Are there any side effects?
Common side effects are mild and temporary, including redness, swelling, or tiny bruises at the injection site. Serious complications are rare when performed by a trained professional.
Dermal Filler
What is dermal filler?
Dermal filler is a hyaluronic acid (HA) based injectable gel used to restore volume and enhance facial contours. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in the skin that helps retain moisture and plumpness. As we age, our natural levels of HA, along with collagen and elastin, gradually decline, leading to a loss of skin hydration, elasticity and volume.
Dermal fillers are available in varying levels of thickness and flexibility – the type used depends on the area being treated and desired outcome.
How long does Dermal Filler last?
How long your filler lasts depends on where it’s placed and the type of product used. It can range from 6 to 18 months. You might need a few sessions to reach your goal, but once you’re happy with the result, a quick top-up just once a year is usually all that’s needed.
Is there any downtime with Dermal Filler?
Some swelling or minor bruising can be expected after your treatment, so allow yourself a few days to recover. To help minimise these effects, it is recommended to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and blood-thinning medications in the lead-up to your appointment. After treatment, you should avoid drinking alcohol and wearing make up for 24 hours. Avoid intense exercise, saunas, and putting pressure on the treated area. Gently applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling and support the healing process.
If you are planning on getting filler prior to a big event, like a wedding, I recommend getting it done at least 4 weeks out, to give the product time to settle. Allow at least 2 weeks before any overseas travel.
Can dermal filler be dissolved/reversed?
Yes, hyaluronic acid-based fillers can be dissolved using Hyaluronidase.
This is kept in clinic to be used in the case of an emergency – such as vascular occlusion or can be used at any time if you wish to have your filler removed.
Are there any contraindications?
Yes, the following people cannot have dermal filler:
- Those with a known allergy to hyaluronic acid, lidocaine or bee stings
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Those with an exacerbation of a chronic illness
- Those with active cold sores, facial wounds or infection
What are the potential side effects/risks of dermal filler?
Common side effects include swelling, redness, bruising and minor pain at the injection site.
Vascular occlusion is a rare but serious risk of dermal filler. This occurs when a blood vessel is blocked with filler, preventing blood flow to tissues of the face. While it is very rare, this risk will be discussed in detail at your consultation (including how to recognise it and how it is treated).
What can I expect at my appointment?
Before we start, we’ll go through some screening questions to make sure it is safe for you to get dermal filler. We’ll discuss your desired results and talk through the procedure (including risks and aftercare). You’ll have the chance to ask any questions beforehand, and then you’ll sign a consent form. We will also take photos, to allow us to track your progress and results.
Numbing cream can be used to minimise discomfort during the procedure (and the dermal filler product itself contains a local anaesthetic).
I offer a follow up appointment after your treatment to assess your results and determine if any top up is needed.
Microneedling
What does Microneedling feel like?
You may experience mild discomfort during the treatment, a bit like a scratching sensation, which can be uncomfortable around sensitive areas like the eyes and nose. This may be followed by a heating sensation and some localised redness immediately afterwards. The heat and discomfort usually resolve after a couple of hours.
Is there any downtime with Microneedling?
You may experience mild redness, similar to sunburn, for 24 to 48 hours after treatment. Some dryness or flaking may occur as the skin renews itself. It is recommended to avoid microneedling in the 2 weeks prior to a major event.
In the first 24 hours after treatment:
- Avoid touching the skin unnecessarily
- No makeup
- Avoid exercise, heat, saunas and sweating
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications for at least 48 hours
In the week following treatment:
- Use gentle, hydrating products only (hyaluronic acid, soothing serums)
- Avoid active ingredients and exfoliants (retinol, vitamin C, AHA’s/BHA’s)
- Avoid sun exposure & wear SPF daily
When is Microneedling not recommended?
During an active flare up of a skin condition, like eczema, acne, rosacea, psoriasis, or dermatitis.
- During active skin infections, cold sores or open wounds
- During pregnancy
- When taking isotretinoin