The Complete Guide to Dermal Fillers — What to Expect Before, During and After Treatment

Last updated: 5 March 2026

Dermal fillers have become one of the most sought-after non-surgical aesthetic treatments in the UK, with over 900,000 procedures performed annually. Whether you are considering lip enhancement, cheek augmentation, or addressing fine lines, understanding the full treatment journey is essential for achieving beautiful, natural-looking results.

At Axiom Aesthetics, our experienced practitioners perform hundreds of dermal filler treatments each year at our London clinic. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know — from your initial consultation through to long-term aftercare.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable substances designed to restore volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. The most commonly used fillers in the UK are based on hyaluronic acid (HA) — a naturally occurring substance found in your skin that helps maintain hydration and plumpness.

Unlike anti-wrinkle injections, which work by relaxing muscles, dermal fillers physically add volume beneath the skin surface. This makes them incredibly versatile for treating a wide range of concerns:

• Lip enhancement — adding volume, definition, and symmetry
• Cheek augmentation — restoring youthful contours and lifting the mid-face
• Nasolabial folds — softening the lines from nose to mouth
• Marionette lines — addressing downturned corners of the mouth
• Jawline contouring — creating a more defined, sculpted jawline
• Tear troughs — reducing the appearance of under-eye hollows
• Chin augmentation — improving facial balance and profile
• Temple hollowing — restoring volume lost through ageing

Types of Dermal Fillers Available in the UK

Not all dermal fillers are created equal. The type of filler your practitioner recommends will depend on the treatment area, your aesthetic goals, and the degree of correction needed.

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

HA fillers account for approximately 85% of all dermal filler treatments in the UK. Popular brands include Juvederm, Restylane, and Teosyal. These fillers are favoured because they are reversible — if you are unhappy with the result, an enzyme called hyaluronidase can dissolve them.

HA fillers come in different consistencies, from thin and fluid (ideal for fine lines and lips) to thick and robust (better suited for cheeks and jawline). At Axiom Aesthetics, we use only CE-marked, FDA-approved hyaluronic acid fillers to ensure the highest safety standards.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers

Sold under the brand name Radiesse, these fillers are composed of calcium-based microspheres suspended in a gel carrier. They are particularly effective for deeper folds and volume restoration, and they stimulate your body’s own collagen production over time.

Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers

Sculptra is the best-known PLLA filler. Rather than providing immediate volume, it works as a biostimulator — gradually encouraging your skin to produce new collagen over several months. Results develop over 2-3 treatment sessions and can last up to two years.

Before Your Treatment: Preparation and Consultation

A thorough consultation is the foundation of any successful dermal filler treatment. Here is what to expect and how to prepare:

The Consultation Process

During your initial consultation at Axiom Aesthetics, your practitioner will:

• Discuss your aesthetic goals and expectations in detail
• Assess your facial anatomy, skin quality, and bone structure
• Review your medical history, including any allergies or medications
• Explain the recommended treatment plan, including which filler type and volume
• Discuss realistic outcomes, potential risks, and alternatives
• Take standardised photographs for your clinical record
• Provide a detailed cost breakdown with no hidden fees

We believe that a comprehensive consultation is just as important as the treatment itself. Understanding a patient’s unique facial anatomy and aesthetic aspirations allows us to create a bespoke treatment plan that delivers natural, harmonious results. — Axiom Aesthetics Clinical Team

How to Prepare for Your Appointment

To minimise the risk of bruising and ensure optimal results, we recommend the following in the days leading up to your treatment:

• Avoid blood-thinning medications — including aspirin and ibuprofen for 7 days prior (always consult your GP before stopping prescribed medication)
• Limit alcohol consumption — avoid alcohol for at least 24-48 hours before treatment
• Avoid supplements — fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, and garlic can increase bruising
• Stay hydrated — well-hydrated skin responds better to HA fillers
• Arrive with clean skin — remove all makeup before your appointment
• Eat beforehand — having a light meal helps prevent feeling lightheaded

During Your Treatment: What Happens in the Clinic

Understanding the treatment process can help ease any anxiety. Here is a step-by-step overview of what happens during a typical dermal filler appointment at our London clinic:

Step 1: Skin Preparation

Your practitioner will cleanse the treatment area thoroughly and may apply a topical numbing cream 15-20 minutes before the procedure. Many modern fillers also contain lidocaine (a local anaesthetic) within the gel, which significantly improves comfort during injection.

Step 2: Marking and Planning

Using a washable marker, your practitioner will map out the injection points on your face. This meticulous planning ensures precise, symmetrical placement.

Step 3: The Injection Process

Depending on the area being treated and the technique used, your practitioner may use either a fine needle or a flexible cannula. The filler is injected slowly and precisely, with your practitioner pausing to massage and mould the product as needed.

Most patients describe the sensation as a mild pressure or pinching — certainly not painless, but very tolerable. The entire injection process typically takes 15-45 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated.

Step 4: Assessment and Fine-Tuning

After injection, your practitioner will assess the results using a mirror, checking for symmetry and ensuring you are happy with the outcome. Minor adjustments can be made immediately if needed.

After Your Treatment: Recovery and Results

Immediate Aftereffects

Following your dermal filler treatment, you may experience:

• Swelling — mild to moderate swelling is completely normal and typically peaks at 24-48 hours
• Redness — some redness at injection sites, usually resolving within hours
• Bruising — possible but not guaranteed, lasting 5-10 days if it occurs
• Tenderness — the treated area may feel tender to touch for 3-5 days
• Lumps or firmness — some initial unevenness is normal and usually settles within 1-2 weeks

Essential Aftercare Guidelines

Proper aftercare is crucial for optimal results. Our practitioners at Axiom Aesthetics recommend:

• First 24 hours: Avoid touching or massaging the treated area (unless instructed otherwise)
• First 48 hours: Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, steam rooms, and hot baths
• First 2 weeks: Avoid dental treatments and facial treatments such as chemical peels or laser therapy
• Apply arnica cream to help reduce bruising
• Sleep slightly elevated on the first night to minimise swelling
• Use cold compresses (not ice directly) for 10-minute intervals to reduce swelling

For more detailed aftercare advice, see our comprehensive guide on post-treatment care for aesthetic procedures.

Timeline of Results

While you will see an immediate improvement, your final results will become apparent as swelling subsides:

• Day 1-3: Noticeable swelling; results appear slightly exaggerated
• Day 3-7: Swelling begins to settle; bruising (if present) starts to fade
• Week 2: Most swelling resolved; filler has settled into its final position
• Week 4: Final results fully visible; the filler has integrated with surrounding tissue

How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?

The longevity of dermal fillers varies depending on several factors:

• Treatment area: Fillers in high-movement areas (lips) typically last 6-9 months, while cheek and jawline fillers can last 12-18 months
• Filler type: Different products have different longevity profiles
• Metabolism: Individuals with faster metabolisms may break down fillers more quickly
• Lifestyle factors: Exercise intensity, sun exposure, and smoking can affect filler longevity

Most patients at Axiom Aesthetics find that maintenance treatments every 9-12 months help them maintain their desired look. Over time, many patients actually require less product as residual filler and stimulated collagen provide ongoing support.

Costs and What to Expect to Pay

Dermal filler prices in the UK vary significantly based on the clinic, practitioner experience, and product used. At Axiom Aesthetics, our pricing is transparent:

• Lip fillers: From £250-£350 per syringe (0.5-1ml)
• Cheek fillers: From £300-£500 per syringe
• Jawline contouring: From £350-£600 per syringe
• Tear trough treatment: From £300-£450 per syringe
• Full-face rejuvenation: From £800-£1,500 (multiple syringes)

We always recommend choosing your clinic based on practitioner qualifications, safety standards, and consultation quality rather than price alone. If you are exploring other rejuvenation options, you may also wish to consider Profhilo treatments for overall skin quality improvement.

Risks and Safety Considerations

While dermal fillers are generally very safe when administered by a qualified practitioner, it is important to be aware of potential risks:

• Common: Swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness (temporary)
• Uncommon: Asymmetry, nodules, migration (treatable)
• Rare: Infection, allergic reaction, vascular occlusion (serious but very rare)

At Axiom Aesthetics, our practitioners are trained in the recognition and management of all potential complications. We maintain emergency protocols and carry hyaluronidase (the dissolving enzyme) at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dermal fillers painful?

Most patients report mild discomfort rather than pain. Modern fillers contain lidocaine, and we apply topical numbing cream before treatment. Most patients rate the pain as 3-4 out of 10. Lip fillers tend to be slightly more uncomfortable due to the sensitivity of the area, but the procedure is still very well tolerated.

Can dermal fillers be reversed?

Yes — this is one of the key advantages of hyaluronic acid fillers. An enzyme called hyaluronidase can be injected to dissolve HA filler if you are unhappy with the result or if a complication occurs. The dissolving process takes 24-48 hours. Non-HA fillers such as Radiesse and Sculptra cannot be dissolved in this way.

How old do you need to be to get dermal fillers in the UK?

Since October 2021, it has been illegal in England to administer Botox or dermal fillers to anyone under the age of 18. At Axiom Aesthetics, we welcome patients aged 18 and over, though we always conduct a thorough assessment to ensure treatment is appropriate regardless of age.

Can I wear makeup after dermal fillers?

We recommend avoiding makeup for at least 12 hours after treatment to reduce the risk of infection at the injection sites. After this period, you can apply makeup as normal, though we suggest using clean brushes and avoiding heavy pressure on the treated area for the first few days.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for dermal fillers?

Good candidates for dermal fillers are adults in general good health who have realistic expectations about the results. Dermal fillers may not be suitable if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have active skin infections, have a history of severe allergic reactions, or are taking blood-thinning medications. A comprehensive consultation will determine whether fillers are the right option for you.

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Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Every patient is unique, and treatment outcomes may vary. A thorough consultation with a qualified aesthetic practitioner is essential before undergoing any procedure. All treatments at Axiom Aesthetics are performed by trained, insured professionals in our CQC-aware clinical environment in London.

Last reviewed: February 2026 | Axiom Aesthetics, London