Fine Lines & Wrinkles

As we grow older, the exposure to sunlight and pollutants leaves changes in the skin. These include solar keratoses as well as more dangerous skin conditions and growths that could be malignant. Additionally lines and wrinkles across our face form as a result of this exposure. The environmental factors combined with the natural process of aging may cause us to look older than we feel or should appear for our age.

There are a number of tissue fillers that can be used to restore a youthful appearance to the skin and eliminate unwanted lines. Broadly speaking tissue fillers can be classified as:

• Hyaluronic acid tissue fillers
• Collagen based tissue fillers
• Other tissue fillers such as those containing Calcium Hydroxyapatite crystals

The body produces Hyaluronic Acid, a substance that attracts water to the skin's surface and this causes the skin to appear plump and hydrated.

As we grow older, the natural Hyaluronic acid (H/A) levels become depleted and lines start to form around our mouths and eyes. This can also cause frown and other lines of expression to become more prominent. At The Melrose Aesthetic Centre we offer clients access to treatments with a number of approved and well tested tissue fillers including tissue fillers comprised of hyaluronic acid such as Restylane®, Perlane® and Juvederm®. The use of these fillers helps to smooth out and rejuvenate the skin and restore a youthful look.

Facial lines corrected include the following:

• Perioral lines around the mouth caused by smoking
• Oral commissures
• Forehead lines
• Frown lines between the eyebrows
• Crow's feet around the eyes
• Nasolabial lines
• Restoration of facial volume
• Facial and acne scars

How long have tissue fillers been available?

Hyaluronic acid has been used for 30 years to promote wound repairs, but has gained popularity as in the use of facial tissue fillers since the early 1990's.

Is treatment effective?

It is widely used with minimal side effects in skin care clinics and is now also recommended as an alternative to other tissue filler treatments.

Who is eligable?

Any person who wants to reverse the effects of aging on the skin can undergo treatment. Since Hyaluronic Acid is naturally found in humans, very few people are allergic to the ingredient.

What are the results?

Results vary according to the area treated, but significant reduction in facial lines and increase in facial volume can be seen within two to three days. Since it is not a permanent solution a top up treatment once to twice a year is recommended.

Are there any side-effects?

Tissue fillers are a safe and relatively painless procedure with only slight discomfort which can be minimized through a local anesthetic application. Swelling, tenderness and redness around the treated areas occur directly after treatment and may last a few days. Allergic reactions to tissue fillers are extremely rare.

How long does treatment take?

Depending on the areas treated, the procedure can take anything from 20 minutes to an hour.

How often is treatment repeated?

The Hyaluronic Acid fillers last approximately 9-12 months, depending on the client's metabolism. The procedure on the different areas of the face must be repeated once a year.

How much does it cost?

The costs vary according to areas to be treated and the specific tissue filler that is used.