Thinking about dermal fillers for the first time? It’s natural to have questions. This guide explains, in plain terms, what dermal fillers are, what they can and can’t do, what your first appointment is like, and how to decide whether they’re right for you. Everything here is general information — your own treatment is always planned at a face-to-face consultation with a registered practitioner.
What are dermal fillers?
Most dermal fillers are based on hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in your skin and helps it hold volume and moisture. As we age, the face gradually loses some of that volume and structure. A filler is placed beneath the skin to gently restore support, soften a fold, or refine a contour — with the aim of looking like a refreshed version of you, not ‘done’.
What can dermal fillers do?
Used thoughtfully, fillers can restore gentle volume to the cheeks and midface, soften the lines that run from the nose to the mouth, add subtle definition or hydration to the lips, and refine the chin or jawline. What’s appropriate depends entirely on your face and goals, which is why an in-person assessment matters before anything is decided.
Your first dermal filler appointment: what to expect
A first visit is a conversation. We talk through what’s bothering you and what you’d like to achieve, review your medical history, and assess your face at rest and in movement. If treatment is suitable, the area is cleaned and the filler is placed using a fine needle or cannula. Many fillers contain a local anaesthetic, and a numbing cream can be applied beforehand, so most people find it very manageable.
Does it hurt, and is there downtime?
Discomfort is usually mild and brief. Afterwards, some mild swelling, redness or tenderness for a day or two is normal and settles on its own. We give you written aftercare advice — generally avoiding heavy exercise, excessive heat and pressure on the area for a short period. Most people return to their day fairly quickly.
How long do dermal fillers last?
Results are temporary, and how long they last varies by the product used and the area treated. Rather than quote a fixed number, we’ll give you a realistic idea for your specific treatment, and plan any maintenance with you, at your consultation and review.
Are dermal fillers reversible?
One reason hyaluronic-acid fillers are a popular, considered choice is that they can, in many cases, be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if needed — whether you change your mind or for a medical reason. The response varies between people and products, which we’ll talk through with you.
Is it right for you?
Dermal fillers suit many adults, but they aren’t for everyone. Certain medical conditions, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and some medications mean treatment isn’t advisable. A consultation with a registered practitioner is essential, and we’ll always be honest if we feel a different approach — or no treatment — would serve you better.
Areas dermal fillers commonly treat
Used thoughtfully, dermal fillers can restore gentle volume to the cheeks and midface, soften the folds that run from the nose to the mouth, add subtle definition or hydration to the lips, and refine the chin or jawline. Under-eye hollows can sometimes be treated too, carefully and where appropriate. What suits you depends on your face and your goals, which we assess in person.
Our approach: natural-looking and individual
We aim for a refreshed version of you rather than an obviously treated look. That means treating conservatively, reviewing the result, and building gradually where needed rather than overfilling. Dr Chalita le Roux plans treatment around your whole face — the lips, smile and lower face all work together — so the result stays balanced.
Dermal fillers vs anti-wrinkle treatment — what’s the difference?
They do different jobs. Anti-wrinkle treatment relaxes the muscles that create movement lines, such as frown and forehead lines. Dermal fillers add volume and support to restore contour and soften static folds. Many people benefit from one or the other; some from a considered combination, which we plan together at your consultation.
Aftercare and getting the best result
Some mild swelling or tenderness for a day or two is normal and settles on its own. We provide written aftercare — generally avoiding heavy exercise, excessive heat and pressure on the area for a short period. We are happy to review your result, and we plan any maintenance with you rather than rushing back.
Choosing who treats you
Who carries out your treatment matters. Dr Chalita le Roux is a registered dental and aesthetic practitioner (HPCSA DP 0118702) with a detailed understanding of facial anatomy from her dental training — central to placing filler thoughtfully and safely, and to being honest about what is realistic.
What results can dermal fillers give?
For suitable cases, dermal fillers can restore a refreshed, rested look — fuller cheeks, softer folds, more defined lips or a smoother jawline — while keeping your features recognisably yours. They do not stop the ageing process or replace a surgical lift; they are a temporary, adjustable way to restore volume and contour. We set realistic expectations together, so you know what to expect before anything begins.
How soon will I see results?
Many people notice an immediate difference from the volume placed, with the final result settling over the following one to two weeks as any minor swelling resolves. We review your result where helpful and make small refinements if needed, so you are comfortable with the outcome.
Frequently asked questions
What are dermal fillers made of?
Most are based on hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in the skin and helps it hold volume and moisture.
How long do dermal fillers last?
It’s temporary and varies by product and area. We’ll give you a realistic idea of duration and any maintenance at your consultation.
Do dermal fillers hurt?
Most people find treatment very manageable — many fillers contain a local anaesthetic and a numbing cream can be applied first, so discomfort is usually mild and brief.
Are dermal fillers reversible?
Hyaluronic-acid fillers can, in many cases, be dissolved with an enzyme if needed. We’ll discuss this at your consultation.
How do I get started?
Book a consultation with Dr Chalita le Roux. We assess your face, talk through suitable options, and there’s no obligation to proceed.
Considering treatment? Learn more about dermal fillers in Roodepoort, or book a consultation with Dr Chalita le Roux, a registered dental and aesthetic practitioner.