Frequently Asked Questions: Dermal Fillers

As a medical aesthetic practitioner here in Cape Town, I’ve had countless conversations with patients who are curious about dermal fillers but unsure about what they really do, how safe they are, and whether the results will look natural. There’s a lot of information online – and just as much misinformation. So, I’ve put together this article to answer some of the most common questions I get in my practice.

Let’s dive in.

Will I Look Overdone?

This is the number one concern I hear: “Will I look fake or unnatural?” The short answer is no – not when dermal fillers are used correctly.

The goal of aesthetic medicine should never be to change who you are, but rather to enhance what you already have. Dermal fillers help restore volume lost through the natural ageing process, improve facial contours, and bring back a youthful glow to your skin. When placed strategically and conservatively, the results are subtle, balanced, and fresh-looking – not “done”.

Remember, good filler work should be almost invisible to the untrained eye. People should notice you look good for your age, youthful, well-rested or glowing – not that you’ve had work done.

What Exactly Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances, most commonly made from hyaluronic acid, that are injected beneath the skin. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in our bodies and plays a vital role in hydration and elasticity.

When injected, fillers can:

• Replace lost volume
• Enhance facial features like cheekbones, lips, the area under the eyes, chin, or jawline
• Soften lines and wrinkles
• Improve skin hydration and texture

It’s a versatile treatment with more applications than many people realise, including skin quality improvement and subtle facial sculpting.

Are All Fillers the Same?

Absolutely not.

Just as every face is different, not all fillers are created equal. There are various types of hyaluronic acid fillers, each designed with different chemical properties and purposes. Some are formulated for contouring, defining and lift, while others are softer and used closer to the surface of the skin to smooth fine lines, gently sculpt or hydrate.

It’s also important to know that only high-quality, FDA-approved fillers should be used. In my Cape Town practice, I only use trusted international brands that have undergone rigorous testing and safety checks. You should always feel confident asking your injector which product is being used on your face.

Choosing the Right Injector

The success of a filler treatment depends not only on the product but also – crucially – on who is injecting it.

In South Africa, dermal fillers must be administered by a medical doctor. Unfortunately, that doesn’t stop unqualified practitioners from offering treatments.

Experience matters. Anatomy knowledge matters. Understanding facial proportions, ageing patterns, and ethnic differences matters. I can’t stress this enough: don’t compromise on who you trust with your face.

The Phrase I Always Tell My Patients: “Goedkoop is duurkoop”

This Afrikaans saying translates to “Going cheap will cost you more in the end.”

I’ve seen too many patients who have come to me after being treated elsewhere, dealing with the consequences of poor-quality fillers, bad techniques, or complications from non-medically qualified individuals or practitioners who weren’t properly trained or used inferior quality products.

When it comes to your face, cheaper is almost never better. Good aesthetic medicine is an investment – in safety, in longevity, and in results that boost your confidence.

How Long Do Fillers Last?

This depends on several factors: the type of filler used, the area treated, your metabolism, and lifestyle factors. Typically, dermal fillers can last anywhere from 6 to 18 months.

Areas like the cheeks or jawline tend to hold filler longer, while more dynamic areas (like lips) may require more frequent top-ups.

Are Fillers Just for Women?

Not at all. A growing number of men in Cape Town and globally are opting for aesthetic treatments, including dermal fillers.

Men often want to enhance a strong jawline or correct under-eye hollowness – but the approach is very different from female patients. The angles, proportions, and desired outcomes must be tailored specifically.

Who is a Good Candidate for Dermal Fillers?

Almost anyone! I treat patients from their twenties to their eighties, of all races and genders.

The key is not age or gender, but what your aesthetic goals are. During a consultation, we’ll assess your facial structure, skin quality, and concerns to create a customised plan that works for you. Whether it’s subtle anti-ageing or full facial harmonisation, the approach is always individual.

Let’s Talk About Safety

While dermal fillers are generally safe, there are important safety protocols to follow:

• Ensure you’re in good health before treatment
• Avoid vaccines or dental work within 3 weeks of your appointment
• Only be treated by a qualified medical doctor

Side effects of fillers like bruising or swelling can occur (we are using needles after all!), but more serious complications are rare when the procedure is done correctly.

Final Thoughts

Dermal fillers can offer beautiful, natural-looking results when done properly. The goal is not to change your identity, but to restore confidence, balance, and vitality.

If you’re considering fillers in Cape Town, I’d love to guide you through the process. Book a consultation and let’s talk about your goals.

You deserve to look and feel like the best version of yourself.

– Dr Blink