Fillers or skin boosters: what is each treatment intended to achieve?

Two different conversations

You would like to change a shape or contour

The discussion then covers proportions, volume and the area concerned, among other things. The fillers page describes the procedure; Face and contours helps put your wishes into context.

You would like to discuss skin quality

The focus may then be on hydration and fine lines, for example. Hydration means supplying moisture. The skin boosters page provides information on this approach. This does not imply that it can reshape features or remove excess skin.

One wish may contain two questions

If you describe your cheeks as sunken and your skin as dry at the same time, these are initially two separate observations. It would be premature to automatically conclude that two treatments should be combined.

The consultation should first establish which change bothers you most and whether an injection is needed at all. A skincare routine, another method or no treatment for the time being remain possible outcomes of the consultation.

The product name alone tells you nothing about the risks

The discussion of filler risks includes swelling, bruising and infections, among other things. In rare cases, an accidental injection into a blood vessel can have serious consequences. The US FDA's patient information on dermal fillers explains these risks.

This general information does not endorse any specific product used at the practice. Ask which product is intended for which area, what its risks are and who will carry out the treatment.

Five questions for your consultation

• Is my main concern shape, volume or skin quality?
• What observation supports the proposed method?
• What can this specific product achieve, and what can it not achieve?
• Which risks, alternatives and visible reactions should I take into account?
• How will you assess whether a further step is appropriate?