Monthly Archives: April 2025

Dermal fillers have become an indispensable tool in combating signs of aging, loss of volume, and facial asymmetry. Millions of men and women worldwide opt for this treatment because it provides quick and visible results for filling wrinkles, defining and accentuating facial contours, restoring lost volume, and rejuvenating the skin’s youthful glow.

The popularity of dermal fillers stems from the fact that the treatment is minimally invasive, with a short recovery period and effective outcomes. However, one of the most common questions is: ‘How to find the right balance?’ Excessive use or too much filler can lead to an exaggerated, artificial appearance, while too little may not deliver satisfactory effects.

What Are Dermal Fillers, and What Are They Used For?

Dermal fillers are injectable preparations most commonly based on hyaluronic acid—a substance that naturally occurs in our bodies and is responsible for water retention and maintaining skin elasticity. Their primary function is to retain water, supplement lost volume, and thus provide a ‘fuller and tighter, and consequently, more youthful facial appearance. Common areas for filler application include the lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds, and jawline contours.

Why Is Proper Dosage So Important?

Most people do not want to look like a ‘different person’ after using fillers. The goal is to preserve the basic features of the face and only soften or correct existing imperfections. By overdoing the dosage of fillers or injecting them in the wrong places, one can easily create an overblown look—affecting what is often referred to as ‘overfilled syndrome.’ Such results are not only aesthetically displeasing but can also appear unnatural and even lead to asymmetry, disturbing the natural proportions of the face.

On the other hand, using too little filler might not produce a pronounced effect, especially in the case of deep wrinkles, deep nasolabial folds, or significant volume loss in the cheeks. Consequently, the patient, despite the investment of money and time, does not achieve the desired results.

Additionally, the excessive use of fillers or improper injection techniques increase the risk of complications, such as unevenness, lumps, or even the rare case of blood vessel obstruction. An adequate approach to dosing and application technique safeguards the patient’s health and minimizes the likelihood of side effects.

Key Factors for Determining the Optimal Dosage

1. Individual Anatomy and Age: Each face is unique, and so are its needs. Factors such as the shape of the face, the amount of natural volume, skin thickness, and local characteristics significantly impact the amount of filler needed. People with prominent jawbones, deep scars, or significant loss of fat tissue may require more fillers. Conversely, a smaller intervention may be sufficient for younger individuals who just want to enhance existing contours. Age also plays a role: as years pass, the loss of volume and elasticity increases, and thus the needed amount of filler might be greater.

2. Skin Quality and Lifestyle: Individuals with good genetics and healthy habits (proper diet, hydration, sun protection, non-smoking) often have more elastic skin that responds better to fillers, achieving a longer-lasting and more subtle effect. Conversely, sun exposure, smoking, and dehydration can accelerate skin aging and require additional doses of fillers for the same result.

3. Treated Region: The dose of filler varies depending on the part of the face being treated. For example, the lips and nasolabial folds are more sensitive and require a smaller amount of filler, while areas such as the cheeks or jawline often use a greater amount to compensate for lost volume.

4. Expected Result: It is important to define what the patient wants: whether they are only slight corrections and subtle changes, or a more drastic transformation which will, of course, usually require a greater amount of fillers.

5. Quality of Fillers and Injection Technique: There are numerous variations of fillers on the market today that differ in density, viscosity, and duration. Dense and highly cross-linked fillers are suitable for deeper corrections and building volume, while softer and less dense fillers are used for finer lines or sensitive areas, such as the lips. An experienced specialist will select the appropriate product and inject it at the optimal depth, ensuring a natural and stable effect.

How to Recognize the Right Amount?

• Consultation with an Expert

The first and most important step is an honest conversation with a licensed expert specialized in aesthetic medicine. An experienced professional will assess the shape and proportions of the face, listen to the patient’s desires, and based on this, suggest the amount and type of filler that will yield the best results.

• Gradual Volume Addition

 Instead of injecting a large amount of filler all at once, the recommendation is to gradually dose with follow-up reviews and corrections as needed. This approach allows for achieving the most natural effect and prevents the face from appearing overdone or asymmetrical.

• ‘Less is More’ Approach

The common motto of modern aesthetic medicine is: ‘fillers should enhance beauty, not reshape it.’ When a patient looks rejuvenated, fresh, and rested after treatment, without obvious signs of intervention, it is known that the ideal balance has been achieved.

Maintaining Results and Preventing Overuse

The duration of fillers varies, but the effects typically last from 6 to 12 months on average. After this period, patients may notice a gradual decrease in volume. Rather than rushing to immediately refill, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up consultation with your doctor to evaluate the condition and determine the timing for a supplementary treatment. This way, the face will always look natural, and the effects will be in harmony with the changes that come with aging.

Integrating filler injections into an overall skincare routine—through proper hydration, sun protection, and moderate use of active ingredients—further extends the effects and ensures that your skin remains fresh, youthful, and naturally beautiful.

In searching for procedures that can tighten skin and slow its aging painlessly and effectively, many are increasingly turning to non-invasive treatments that promote natural tissue regeneration. One of the newest and most popular procedures in this field is ThermiSmooth Face. This treatment, based on controlled radio frequency (RF), allows for the rejuvenation of the skin on the face, neck, and décolleté without needing scalpels, needles, and long recovery periods.

What is ThermiSmooth Face?

ThermiSmooth Face is a non-invasive aesthetic treatment that uses targeted low-frequency radio frequency (RF) energy to rejuvenate and tighten facial skin. The basis of the procedure lies in the use of high-intensity, focused ultrasound or RF waves that reach into the deeper layers of the skin—particularly the SMAS layer (superficial muscular aponeurotic system), where the muscles and connective tissue are located.

While many anti-aging treatments rely on chemical or mechanical methods, ThermiSmooth Face achieves a lifting effect through heat—by heating, it stimulates fibroblasts to increase collagen production, making the skin tighter, more elastic, and fresher in appearance.

Compared to older radio frequency technologies, ThermiSmooth Face has been enhanced to continuously monitor and control the temperature during treatment, further improving safety and comfort for the patient.

ThermiSmooth Face treatment has a dual function: it immediately tightens existing collagen through controlled thermal stimulation and, in the long term, encourages the creation of new, healthier collagen and elastin, resulting in a natural and lasting lifting effect.

How Does ThermiSmooth Face Work?

RF waves work by penetrating the skin’s surface and heating the deeper layers of the dermis. When the tissue reaches a certain temperature (usually between 42°C and 45°C), it leads to an immediate tightening (contraction) of collagen fibers. At the same time, the body initiates a natural regeneration process, signaling for the production of new collagen and elastin. In the long run, this mechanism leads to a gradual but noticeable effect of tightening, evening out the skin tone, and reducing wrinkles.

The heat delivered during the treatment is not aggressive, and thanks to safety mechanisms, the skin remains protected from overheating and potential adverse reactions. Patients usually feel a pleasant, diffused warmth, similar to a mild hot stone massage, as the device’s probe moves evenly across the face.

Which areas can be treated with this treatment?

ThermiSmooth Face is most commonly used for:

Mildly sagging skin on the face and neck: For individuals who notice the first signs of sagging under the jawline, on the cheeks, or on the neck.

Fine lines and wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes, and lips: The treatment can successfully soften so-called ‘worry lines’, ‘frown lines’, drooping eyelids, ‘crow’s feet’, ‘laugh lines’, or nasolabial folds around the lips, thus giving the face a more rested appearance.

Who Is ThermiSmooth Face Intended For?

ThermiSmooth Face is ideal for those who notice the first signs of aging—fine lines, sagging skin, or loss of tone—but are not ready for invasive methods such as a facelift. It is especially popular among individuals in their thirties and forties, when the skin begins to lose elasticity but is still responsive enough to react to stimulation. However, it is not limited to this age group—it is also often chosen by those who want preventive action or simply wish to refresh their appearance before an important event.

The treatment is also an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin around the eyes, where dark circles, fine lines, or slightly sagging eyelids often appear. Additionally, it can help improve facial contours, such as defining the jawline or reducing a slight double chin. In short, if you are looking for a subtle but noticeable change without any risks, ThermiSmooth Face is the right ally.

The treatment is not suitable for people with more significant excess skin, who might benefit more from surgical facelifting. Also, individuals with cardiac issues, implanted pacemakers, or active skin infections should consult with a doctor to assess the safety of the procedure.

What You Can Expect During and After the Treatment

One of the biggest advantages of the ThermiSmooth Face treatment is its simplicity. The entire procedure lasts between 20 and 60 minutes, depending on the extent of the treated area.

After a detailed consultation with an expert, during which the condition of the skin is assessed and treatment goals are set, skin preparation follows, which includes thorough cleansing and the application of a contact gel. Then, the RF or focused ultrasound probe is placed on the targeted areas.

The aesthetic specialist uses gentle or circular movements with a special device (handheld applicator) that glides over the skin surface, gently heating it. The sensation of heat is usually pleasant and can be compared to the feeling of a warm massage. Most patients do not feel discomfort, and the temperature and intensity of the treatment are continuously adjusted to ensure maximum comfort. As the skin temperature reaches the target value, the Thermi RF computer automatically adjusts the power of the energy to provide precise heating.

Immediately after completing the ThermiSmooth Face treatment, you may notice slight redness and a sensation of warmth in the treated area, which usually disappear within a few hours. Thanks to the non-invasive nature of the treatment, you can immediately return to your daily activities.

The treatment is typically repeated once a week, in a recommended series of 3 to 6 sessions, to achieve optimal results, but the schedule may vary depending on the condition of the skin and expert recommendations. The achieved results can last up to several years, especially if maintained with periodic sessions.

When to Expect Results and How Long Do They Last?

The initial effects of the ThermiSmooth Face treatment can be seen after the first or second session, primarily as tighter and more radiant skin. However, the true, longer-lasting results are usually observed only after several weeks or even a month, when collagen regeneration intensifies. This process is gradual, allowing for a natural effect without sudden, drastic changes.

The duration of the results depends on lifestyle, genetic predisposition, and the age of the patient, but generally, the effects can be expected to last from 6 to 12 months. Regular maintenance treatments (once every few months) can extend the achieved results and keep the skin in the best possible condition.

Benefits of ThermiSmooth Face Treatment

• Non-invasive: No cuts, needles, or need for anesthesia.
• No downtime: You can return to your daily activities immediately after the treatment.
• Safety: The treatment is extremely safe, with minimal risk of side effects.
• Universality: Suitable for all skin types and tones.
• Gradual, natural results: Changes appear gradually, making the results subtler and more natural.
• Improved skin quality: Besides tightening, the treatment also improves skin texture, giving it a healthier and more radiant appearance.

In recent years, hyaluronic acid (HA) has become one of the most popular and reliable treatments for rejuvenation. Whether used for dermal fillers or joint therapy, this natural substance provides immediate and long-lasting benefits. However, even though these treatments are generally safe and yield remarkable results, like all cosmetic procedures, hyaluronic fillers come with potential side effects, one of the most common being swelling.

Swelling is a common occurrence and often an expected part of the healing process after hyaluronic filler treatments. While it may seem concerning, in most cases, swelling is actually a natural skin reaction to the injection and tissue adaptation. This is why it’s important to understand why it occurs, how long it usually lasts, and what practical steps you can take to reduce it.

Why Does Swelling Occur after Hyaluronic Filler Treatments

The very act of injecting and introducing fillers into the skin constitutes a micro trauma to the tissue. This trauma, albeit minimal, triggers an inflammatory response from the body. Swelling occurs as a result of increased permeability of blood vessels and the accumulation of fluid in the treated area.

This process is part of natural healing— the body attempts to protect the area and starts regeneration, resulting in temporary water retention. The inflammatory process, though necessary for healing, can lead to swelling, redness, and mild sensitivity.

How Long Does Swelling Usually Last?

The duration of swelling can vary from person to person, but in most cases, swelling after hyaluronic fillers lasts from a few days to one week. The most pronounced swelling typically occurs within the first 24 to 48 hours after treatment, after which it gradually begins to subside. In some cases, particularly with treatments in sensitive areas like the lips or around the eyes, swelling may last a bit longer.

Typically, by the end of one week, most of the swelling should have subsided. However, some minor residual swelling can persist up to two weeks, especially in areas that are more sensitive or have received a larger amount of filler.

Thus, to see the “true” results and assess whether the volume is ideally distributed, it is recommended to wait at least two weeks before making a final judgment about the need for additional touch-ups or corrections.

Factors Affecting the Duration of Swelling

Several factors can influence how long swelling lasts after filler injections:

1. Injection Technique: A precise injection technique, using a cannula instead of a traditional needle, can reduce tissue damage and consequently swelling. Techniques that involve deeper injections or more punctures often result in more significant swelling. An aesthetic expert who carefully plans the injection points and the depth of the fillers can significantly minimize adverse reactions.
2. Amount of Filler Injected: Larger amounts of filler often lead to more swelling. Properly determining the amount, based on individual needs, is crucial for optimal results.
3. Treated Area: Regions such as the lips, eyes, and neck have richer vascularization and may be more sensitive, so swelling can be more pronounced than on the cheeks or jawline.
4. Individual Sensitivity: Each person has a unique immune response. Some naturally have a stronger inflammatory reaction, while others absorb excess fluid more quickly and efficiently.
5. Brands and Formula of Hyaluronic Acid: Different brands and different products with hyaluronic acid have different consistencies, molecular weights, and formulations, so some may cause more swelling than others.
6. Use of Additional Treatments: Combining fillers with other aesthetic procedures (such as HIFU, PRP, or even a light chemical peel) can, in some cases, increase swelling but often provide a synergistic effect on skin regeneration.

How to Reduce Swelling after Hyaluronic Fillers

Although swelling is usually a temporary issue, there are steps you can take to minimize it and speed up the healing process.

• Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses to the treated area can help constrict blood vessels and reduce the amount of fluid accumulating around the injection site. You can use an ice pack or wrap ice in a cloth and gently press it against the skin. Be sure to avoid direct contact with ice to prevent skin damage.
• Avoid Touching the Treated Area: Resist the urge to massage or press on the treated area, as this can cause further irritation and potentially displace the filler.
• Avoid Intense Physical Activity: For the first 24 to 48 hours, avoid strenuous physical activities and exercise as they can increase blood flow to the face and potentially worsen swelling and prolong recovery.
• Sleep with Your Head Elevated: Using extra pillows when sleeping reduces fluid retention in the upper body, which can help reduce swelling more quickly.
• Hydration and Diet: Drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants. Good hydration allows the body to more quickly eliminate excess fluid, while antioxidants help reduce inflammatory processes.
• Avoid Alcohol and High Salt Intake: Alcohol can further dehydrate the skin and exacerbate swelling, while excessive salt intake contributes to water retention in the body.
• Use Mild, Soothing Creams: After treatment, using soothing creams with ingredients such as allantoin, panthenol, or niacinamide can help calm the skin and reduce swelling. Also, a high SPF sunscreen is mandatory, as new skin is extremely sensitive to UV rays.
• Be Mindful of Medications and Supplements: Avoid medications like aspirin and ibuprofen, which can increase the risk of bleeding and swelling. Discuss safe alternatives for pain relief with your doctor.
• Follow Expert Advice: Always adhere to the instructions given by your aesthetician. If swelling lasts longer than expected or if pain, redness, or unexplained discomfort occur, be sure to consult a professional for further assessment.

When to Be Concerned About Swelling

While mild swelling is common, there are certain cases when you should contact your doctor:

• Excessive Swelling: If the swelling continues to worsen instead of improving over the first few days, this could indicate an allergic reaction, infection, or other complications.
• Severe Pain: Some discomfort is expected, but if the area becomes painful, hot to the touch, or if you notice signs of infection (such as pus), seek medical attention immediately.
• Lumps or Bumps: If you notice firm lumps or bumps under the skin that do not dissipate after a few weeks, this may be a sign of uneven distribution of hyaluronic acid or an issue with the injection technique.