Dermal Fillers (Hyaluronic Acid)

Dermal fillers (hyaluronic acid) restore volume, soften lines and support facial contours using a substance that already occurs naturally in the skin. Ms Tzafetta uses dermal fillers to improve balance and structure rather than to overfill or change facial identity.
As we age, skin gradually loses volume and its ability to retain moisture. This process can lead to deeper lines, flattened facial contours, and a tired appearance. Dermal fillers help replace lost support and hydration, allowing the skin to look healthier, smoother and more refreshed.
When dermal fillers may help
Dermal fillers may help improve:
- deep smile lines
- lines around the mouth (often called smoker’s lines)
- frown lines between the eyebrows
- fine lines around the eyes
- loss of lip definition or volume
- areas of facial volume loss, such as the cheeks
Treatment focuses on subtle restoration rather than obvious enhancement.
How dermal fillers work
Hyaluronic acid plays an important role in skin hydration and elasticity. It attracts and holds water, helping skin stay supple and supported.
Dermal fillers use a stabilised form of hyaluronic acid that breaks down more slowly in the body. Once injected, it binds water within the skin and underlying tissues, improving volume, elasticity and smoothness.
Although not permanent, hyaluronic acid fillers last for many months and can be maintained with occasional follow-up treatment when needed.
What to expect from dermal filler treatment
Dermal filler treatment usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of areas treated.
For most wrinkle treatments, anaesthesia is not required. For lip enhancement, Ms Tzafetta usually uses a local anaesthetic to improve comfort.
Results appear immediately, although mild swelling can temporarily mask the final outcome. Most people return to normal daily activities straight away.
Ms Tzafetta tailors treatment carefully to your facial anatomy and goals, aiming for a natural result that still looks like you.
Recovery and expectations
Mild swelling, redness, tenderness or bruising can occur at injection sites. These effects usually settle within 24 to 72 hours. Lip treatments may take up to 7 days to settle fully.
Most people return to work and social activities on the same day or the following day. Ms Tzafetta may advise avoiding strenuous exercise, alcohol and facial massage for 24 to 48 hours.
Results typically last between 6 and 12 months, depending on the area treated, product used and individual metabolism.
A careful, anatomy-led approach
Under the care of Ms Tzafetta, dermal filler treatment centres on facial balance, proportion and safety.
Her experience in facial anatomy allows precise placement, helping avoid an overfilled or artificial appearance and supporting long-term facial harmony.
Dermal Fillers FAQs
How long does dermal filler treatment take?
Treatment usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of areas treated.
Will I see results straight away?
Yes. Results appear immediately, although mild swelling can temporarily affect appearance. Final results usually become clearer within a few days.
How long do dermal fillers last?
Results typically last 6 to 12 months. Duration varies depending on the area treated, filler type and individual metabolism.
Will my face look overfilled?
Ms Tzafetta focuses on subtle enhancement and facial balance. The goal is to restore volume naturally rather than create exaggerated features.
Is dermal filler treatment painful?
Most people describe treatment as mildly uncomfortable. Fine needles and, where appropriate, local anaesthetic help improve comfort.
What are the risks or side effects?
Temporary swelling, redness, bruising or tenderness can occur. These effects usually settle within a few days. Ms Tzafetta will clearly explain the risks during the consultation.
Can dermal fillers be reversed?
Yes. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved if necessary, which provides an additional safety margin and reassurance.
Can dermal fillers be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Dermal fillers often combine well with wrinkle-relaxation treatments, Obagi Nu-Derm®, or skin resurfacing procedures when appropriate.
Who performs dermal filler treatment?
Kalliroi Tzafetta performs dermal filler treatment with an anatomy-led, conservative approach focused on safety and natural results.
When should I consider dermal fillers?
You may consider dermal fillers if volume loss or facial lines affect how you feel about your appearance, and you want a non-surgical option with minimal downtime. A consultation with Ms Tzafetta can help determine whether treatment suits your goals.
Patient Experiences
Many people find it helpful to hear from others who have been through a similar experience. The reflections below share individual patient perspectives, offered to help you understand what care and recovery can feel like in practice.
Lip fillers for cleft lip scar
I saw Ms Tzafetta for filler to my upper lip to correct scarring from my cleft lip surgery. I had been thinking of having lip fillers for a while but was unsure due to my previous surgeries and having scar tissue there. I put my full trust in Ms Tzafetta as she is renowned for her work in head and neck surgery, in particular facial paralysis. Ms Tzafetta was welcoming and professional throughout and filled me with confidence! I chose not to have any anaesthetic cream for this procedure as I knew it would only be quick. I was given ice packs to use before as she prepared her trolley. The procedure was not too painful at all and didn’t last long. I had 1ml in total of Juvederm Smile in both my too and a bottom lip. I am beyond happy with my results! I had it done in early November and even now mid April it’s still holding a great shape! I will definitely be rebooking with Ms Tzafetta for further lip fillers in the future and I’ve had a friend also visit her for cleft lip scarring and she was equally delighted. If you are unsure about having lip filler then Ms Tazafetta will be the one for you.
Further Reading:
British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons
