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FAQ – common fillers questions



What are dermal fillers?

Face and lip fillers are therapeutic materials for soft tissue augmentation. They have a clear gel-like consistency and are injected with a fine needle or cannula. Most dermal fillers are based on Hylauronic Acid (HA) which is a naturally occuring substance already present within the skin. Fillers can enhance facial features and contours. They can reduce signs of aging by smoothing lines and wrinkles, or add volume to thin lips or sunken cheeks. We only use FDA and CE approved products including Juvederm, Belotero and Restylane. Modern HA fillers are not permanent and are gradually absorbed over time.

What are Russian Lips?

Russian Lips refer to the advanced injection techniques invented by Russian doctors which involve precise placement of thin lines of filler to provide support, structure and shape where needed most. A wide range of results or styles are possible, but the most popular look involves ‘lifting’ the lips for extra height and shaping the cupids bow into a subtle heart shape. A more defined border and flatter sideways profile is possible compared to simply plumping the lip body with extra product to increase size.

Can I get Russian lips if I currently have lip fillers?

Yes, but it’s best to discuss with us first to see if you need your old lip fillers dissolved first

Do we charge to dissolve lips and how long before I can have them refilled after dissolving?

Yes, we do charge for dissolving and we advise at least a week before refilling. Filler is quickly broken down using the enzyme Hyaluronidase and although everything may look normal within a day, it takes some time for the connective tissue to heal completely and avoid the potential risk of subsequent filler migration.

Do we charge for consultations?

Consultations are free and are given before each treatment. Consultations can also be booked as a seperate appointment using our booking link. Photos and questions before booking can be emailed or sent by direct message.

How long do fillers last?

Lip fillers last on average last 6-9 months but this can vary depending on several factors including age, metabolism, level of exercise, alcohol intake and lifestyle. Some premium brands such as Juvaderm Volift are formulated to last longer. Clients can have top-up treatments when they feel necessary unless advisable by our staff.

How long does treatment take?

Typical appointments take around 30-60 minutes depending on the procedure required. This includes a consultation, application of anaesthetic (medical strength topical numbing cream), administration of filler, product massage/shaping and aftercare advice. A follow-up session may be given in full facial treatments – to allow initial work to settle, and for client comfort.

What brands do you use?

We use Revolax, Juvoderm, Restylane, Belotero Intense, Hyafilia and Stylage. Products have slightly different properties including HA concentrations, density and molecule size and are chosen based on the area treated, condition of skin, technique used, client requirements etc.

What product should I get?

We can advise which products will give the best results in a consultation before procedure, depending on area treated and the needs of each individual patient.

How soon will I see a difference?

Often you will see a difference right after treatment, however we advise waiting up to 2 weeks to see true results after any initial swelling and settling. Some skin treatments such as Morpheus can take slightly longer to give a full representation of the procedure as the effects gradually improve over time. Photographs can be taken for our records and for comparison at different stages.

How will it look and feel after treatment?

It’s normal for there to be some swelling and maybe some bruising in the first few days after having facial fillers but generally you will see an immediate difference in volume and shape of the treated area. The results tend to improve as any initial swelling or bruising subsides and the filler begins to settle naturally within the skin.

Who can have the treatments done?

In the UK, fillers are legally only allowed to be administered to anyone over the age of 18. We strictly only carry out procedures on clients that are at least 18 years old, and may advise against if we feel the work is unneccessary or inappropriate.

Will the procedure sometimes not work?

Occasionally a procedure may need a few treatments to see the desired result – this will be advised before treatment. It isn’t recommended to inject excessive amounts in 1 session, which can result in filler spread or migration outside the desired area due to increased pressure before the product has settled.

How many treatments will someone need?

Starting in the 30’s we begin to lose volume in the facial area each year. To keep a more youthful appearance it is typical for patients to require 1ml syringe of filler per decade of life. For a full facial correction at 40 years old, around 4 syringes would be suitable for optimal results, although often treatment is only sought for 1 specific area or problem. For lips, someone with very thin lips may require several sessions to build up their desired look safely. The same applies with complex corrections.
We will discuss and advice in a consultation before proceeding.

Are there any adverse effects?

Most side-effects of hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary and should only last a few days. They may include: Swelling and bruising, light bleeding, redness and tenderness at the injection sites, reactivation of cold sores or fever blisters (herpes simplex) on the lips or surrounding area.
More serious risks of a vascular occlusion and tissue death if untreated are possible – much more likely when attempted by untrained injectors at home. There is some risk in every procedure, but modern fillers are generally very safe when done in a professional setting by those with expert knowledge of the artery structure. Treatments can be quickly reversed by dissolving the filler with Hyaluronidase in the rare event of any serious effects or inflammatory reactions.

What should I not do after the treatments?

Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 to 48 hours after you get lip fillers or any other dermal fillers. Elevated blood pressure and heart rate from exercise may make swelling or bruising worse. You can take Arnica for bruising if your doctor approves. It’s fine to engage in light activities like walking. Avoid alcohol and hydrate often. Check our aftercare advice here.

How does Hyaluronic Acid work?

Hyaluronic acid supplements can help increase skin moisture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Topical treatments of HA gel can soothe redness and dermatitis, while injections can add volume to underlying areas, shaping or softening facial structures or lifting the skin and reducing the effects of sagging and wrinkles. The product is gradually absorbed by the body over time and further treatments or top-ups may be sought

Can dermal fillers be used around the eyes?

Hyaluronic acid dermal filler injections are an effective method to correct fine lines and superficial wrinkles in sensitive areas such as crow’s feet and to support or lift the eyebrows. Often used in combination with small touches of botox.
To refresh and rejuvenate tired looking eyes, delicate injection of fillers into the tear trough area is a quick and effective procedure to improve the appearance of dark circles and eye bags.

What is Profhilo?

Profhilo is a modern injectable skin remodelling treatment containing one of the highest concentrations of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) on the market, especially formulated for people whose skin lacks volume and elasticity. The result is improved skin quality lasting for up to 6 months.

What is Morpheus 8?

We have recently invested in this award-winning skincare machine from InMode. Much loved by celebrities, the treatment combines micro-needling with advanced radiofrequency technology to tighten and smooth the skin – giving a fresher, more youthful appearance. Often marketed as “the non-surgical facelift”.

Where did Anastasia study?

After achieving a nursing certificate in Russia, Anastasia continued her education in London studying Biomedical Science. After her degree, she continued her path into aesthetic medicine studying at AMV clinic Moscow and Harley Academy London. Committed to keeping up with the latest advances, she has now completed over 17 additional trainings, learning and mastering the latest procedures from top specialists in Russia and Europe and refining her own specialist techniques.

Do we do aesthetic collaborations?

Yes we do – please message us to enquire.

Do we travel?

Not currently, we are based in Harley Street London, UK but you can message us to see if we will be visiting your country in the future.

Appointments Availability & Booking




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