Expert Advice on Safe Filler Treatments from Dr. Lee, Renowned Korean Dermatologist.
When it comes to skincare, Korean beauty (K-beauty) has gained global recognition for its advanced techniques and products. One of the most popular and widely practiced cosmetic treatments is dermal fillers. They’re known for enhancing facial features with minimal downtime, but they also come with risks that shouldn’t be overlooked. That’s why Dr. Lee, a renowned dermatologist with over 10 years of experience in Gangnam, Seoul, has dedicated his career to offering honest and professional skincare tips. Dr. Lee’s mission is simple: to help people achieve healthy, radiant skin, regardless of where they’re from.
While many clinics across the globe promote excessive or unnecessary treatments for financial gain, Dr. Lee stands apart. He’s built a YouTube channel with over 710,000 subscribers, where he openly shares his expert advice on safe and effective skincare practices. His approach is transparent, focusing solely on his patients’ well-being rather than commercial interests. Through his channel, he aims to educate people worldwide on the best home care tips and when it’s best to seek professional help.
In this blog post, we’ll explore, particularly which areas of the face you should avoid and why. Dr. Lee will also share the potential side effects, types of fillers, and when and where to safely apply them.
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bouuK3AmaGQ
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers, especially hyaluronic acid fillers, are injectable treatments designed to add volume to certain areas of the face. Over the years, fillers have become more popular, both for enhancing aesthetics and for rejuvenating the skin. Initially, fillers were used for medical purposes, such as joint lubrication in elderly patients, but today, they are widely used for cosmetic enhancements.
Hyaluronic acid is the main component of many fillers because it mimics a natural substance in our body. It’s commonly used for addressing issues like nasolabial folds (smile lines), sunken cheeks, and even under-eye hollows. When injected into the skin, hyaluronic acid helps restore lost volume, creating a youthful, plump appearance.
Why You Should Be Cautious About Fillers
Although fillers are popular and generally considered safe, misapplication or choosing the wrong areas can lead to serious complications. Over the years, Dr. Lee has seen countless patients experience unwanted results from fillers, ranging from minor lumps to more severe issues like skin necrosis. This can occur when the filler is injected too aggressively or in a sensitive area, leading to swelling, bruising, and even permanent damage.
Here are three areas that Dr. Lee strongly advises against when it comes to getting fillers:
1. The Nose
The nose is one of the most delicate areas for filler application. This is due to the presence of major blood vessels that are at high risk of being blocked if the filler is improperly injected. In the worst-case scenario, a blocked blood vessel could lead to skin necrosis or even blindness if the filler is displaced to the retinal artery.
Many people choose to get fillers to reshape the nose or enhance the bridge of the nose, but it is a risky procedure that requires extreme caution. The filler can migrate over time, making the nose appear unnaturally wide or causing it to lose its defined shape.
Dr. Lee’s Advice: If you’re considering a non-surgical nose enhancement, it’s important to choose a skilled professional with extensive experience. He personally does not recommend fillers for the nose because of the potential complications.
2. The Undereye Area
Filler treatments for the undereye area are intended to address dark circles and hollow eyes, but they come with limitations. The skin around the eyes is incredibly thin, and injecting too much filler can lead to visible blue veins, making the area appear worse.
People with particularly thin skin or deep under-eye circles may find that fillers cause more harm than good, creating a shadowed or puffier appearance. In these cases, it is critical to approach this treatment cautiously.
Dr. Lee’s Advice: While fillers can provide a subtle and youthful look, they’re not suitable for everyone. He recommends exploring alternatives, such as specialized eye creams or laser treatments, before opting for filler injections in this sensitive area.
3. The Chin
The chin is another area where Dr. Lee advises against the use of fillers for many patients. Fillers in this region can result in an unbalanced appearance, especially if they are overfilled or improperly placed. The chin is also prone to migration, meaning the filler can shift, creating an unnatural contour.
Overfilling the chin can lead to an overly prominent or disproportionate look, and some patients may experience asymmetry after treatment.
Dr. Lee’s Advice: For patients looking to enhance their chin, surgical options may be more effective and long-lasting. If you do choose fillers, it’s crucial to opt for a small amount and go to a reputable, experienced practitioner who understands facial anatomy.
Best Areas for Fillers
While Dr. Lee is cautious about the above areas, there are certain regions where fillers can yield fantastic results. Nasolabial folds (laugh lines) and cheeks are ideal areas for fillers. These regions lose volume with age, causing the face to appear tired or older than it is. Fillers can restore a natural volume, enhancing the contours and creating a more youthful appearance.
Dr. Lee’s Advice: He highly recommends fillers for nasolabial folds, as they tend to have excellent outcomes with minimal complications when administered properly. Additionally, cheek fillers can enhance facial symmetry and restore youthful contours.
Filler Side Effects: What You Should Know
Like any medical procedure, dermal fillers come with potential risks and side effects, such as:
- Bruising and swelling: These are common after filler injections, but they usually subside within a few days.
- Lumps or bumps: Sometimes the filler can create uneven results if not properly distributed.
- Infection: Any injectable treatment carries the risk of infection if proper hygiene isn’t followed.
- Migration: Fillers can shift over time, especially if injected too aggressively or in large quantities.
Dr. Lee’s Advice: To reduce the risk of side effects, always choose a highly skilled dermatologist with experience in filler applications. Ensure you follow pre- and post-care instructions diligently for the best outcome.
Conclusion
Dermal fillers are a great way to enhance facial features, but like any cosmetic procedure, they require careful consideration and professional expertise. Dr. Lee’s approach to skincare emphasizes safety, transparency, and patient well-being over commercial gain. If you’re interested in learning more about safe home skincare practices or seeking expert advice on professional treatments, share this article with your friends and loved ones. They might find it helpful in making informed decisions for their skin health.
Remember, a healthy skin routine begins with proper care, knowledge, and the right professionals by your side.