Using dermal fillers is a popular and widely acceptable way to enhance facial features and provide a more youthful appearance. However, excessive use can lead to a range of potential concerns with undesirable aesthetic and health-related consequences.
It’s important to recognise the signs of overdone filler, as it can lead to an unnatural appearance. Exaggerated volume in areas like the cheeks, lips, or chin that look disproportionate to the rest of the face, leading to changes in facial features that appear unnatural or out of balance. Here are some tell-tale signs of overdone fillers:
- “Pillow Face”
This refers to an overly puffy and swollen appearance, particularly in the cheeks and under-eye area. The natural contours of the face are lost, and the face appears rounded and bloated. - “Duck Lips” or “Trout Pout”
Lips that appear overly large - “Hamster Cheeks”
Cheeks that are excessively round and prominent. - “Sunset Eyes”
When too much filler is placed under the eyes, this can create a look of eyes that appear squinted, or too tight. - “Witch’s Chin”
This is when too much filler is placed into the chin, and it creates a very sharp and pointy look. - “Avatar Nose”
This is when too much filler is placed into the bridge of the nose, making it look very wide and high.
Additional concerns include:
- Asymmetry:
Noticeable differences in volume between the two sides of the face. - Lumps and Bumps:
Visible or palpable irregularities under the skin’s surface. - Defined Edges:
Instead of smooth transitions, areas treated with fillers may have sharp or noticeable boundaries. - Difficulty in Movement:
If facial expressions seem restricted or if there’s a “frozen” look, it might indicate overuse of fillers, particularly in areas like the lips or forehead. - Skin Texture Changes:
The skin around the treated area might appear stretched or become thinner, leading to visible veins or surface irregularities. - Inflammation or Swelling:
Prolonged swelling that doesn’t resolve can be a sign of too much filler or an adverse reaction. In some cases, excessive filler can lead to delayed healing or complications, such as infection or allergic reactions, which need medical attention.
Key factors contributing to these signs include:
- Over-injection:
Too much dermal filler injected into the skin. - Improper placement:
Dermal filler injections in the wrong place, causing unsatisfactory results. - Lack of understanding of facial anatomy:
Practitioners lacking the training or experience are generally at higher risk of causing
‘Less is More’ for a Natural Results
Dermal fillers are a highly effective treatment for anti-ageing and facial contouring. For a pleasing result which still looks natural, it’s generally best to adopt a “less is more” approach.
The goal of dermal fillers should be to enhance natural features, not to create an entirely new face. Subtle enhancements can provide a refreshed and youthful appearance without looking artificial. Avoid going overboard, as the face can lose its natural balance and harmony, leading to a disproportionate and unattractive appearance. Overfilling can also limit facial movement, creating a stiff unnatural look. It’s always easier to add more filler than to remove it. Starting with a conservative approach allows for adjustments and refinements over time.
What’s more, using smaller amounts of filler is also safer, as it significantly reduces the risk of complications, such as vascular occlusion and other adverse reactions.
In summary, prioritising a natural and balanced look is essential when considering dermal fillers. Consulting with a qualified and experienced injector who emphasises a conservative approach can help minimise risks and achieve desirable results.
Dermal Fillers
At Mulberry House Clinic, Northamptonshire
Mulberry House Clinic based in Northamptonshire has over 20 years experience of providing dermal fillers for a loyal clientele.
All filler treatments are carried out by former GP, clinic founder and Medical Director, Dr John Tanqueray, MB BCh MRCGP DCH DRCOG DipOccMed BCAM. He also carries out in depth consultation prior to every treatment, in order to assess the skin in detail and discuss client requirements before recommending the best course of treatment.
Dr Tanqueray offers advanced dermal filler treatments including
- 8-point face lift without surgery or exclusive Multi-Point face lift
- Non-surgical face lift
- Non-surgical neck lift
- Non-Surgical Nose Job
- Sculptra Injections
- Injections for skin quality including Profhilo Injections
Dr John Tanqueray has written an exclusive guide Secrets to Successful Dermal Filler Treatment which provides expert advice on how to make the right choices for your practitioner, product and treatment.
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with over 20 years experience. Dr John Tanqueray is a former GP who can assess and diagnose skin conditions from a medical perspective before suggesting the most appropriate treatments.
A private consultation is the starting point for all patients in order to facilitate a full discussion about the desired results as well as detailed facial and skin assessment. Find out more about first consultation.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.