Frequently Asked Questions


What are the differences between all the Hyaluronic acid brands?

Essentially, they are all the same, they contain HA, but there are some variants. Some contain lidocaine which is a local anesthetic ingredient. The brands vary due to their molecule sizes, the substances they are made from and the areas they are made to treat, and their longevity.

If you have a preference, we will discuss whether it is ok for you to have. Depending on previous treatments you may need to have the same product you have been treated with previously.

We only buy from reputable pharmacies to ensure the product we inject is safe and reliable to be what it says it is.

When will I see the results of my dermal filler injections?

Instantly! Unlike toxin injections that take a few weeks to see the full results you will see what we have created there and then.

Does it hurt?

Some areas are more uncomfortable than others. We will provide local numbing cream to the areas being treated to help the initial pricks being felt, people are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the procedure is as most of the fillers we use have a local numbing agent in them, unless you are allergic to lidocaine or on certain medications.

Which areas can be treated?

At The Cotswold Skin Clinic we can treat:

  • Cheeks

  • Nasolabial line – nose to mouth lines

  • Marionette Lines – disappointment lines

  • Oral commissures – corners of the mouth

  • Perioral lines – Smokers lines Lips

  • Chin- mental crease

  • Jaws

What are the side effects of HA filler?

The most common and desired effect is volumized areas of skin.

Reactions around the injection site due to the puncture of the skin rather than the product are as such: redness, tenderness, itching, swelling or bruising are common.
Minor bumps which can be improved with massage.

If you are prone to cold sores you could expect to get a flare-up of the virus and we advise having started your treatment a few days prior to injections.

Very rare- Injecting product into the small vessels causing reduced blood supply, scab formation or scarring.

Patients who are particularly nervous could experience generalised reactions such as fainting, circulatory problems, nausea or noises in the ears. Relax we will assess you and make sure you leave the clinic well and at ease. Everyone can be afraid, but we won’t push you into anything you don’t want to do.

What if I don’t like the effect?

We only use HA fillers as these can be dissolved. We only really dissolve if there is a medical emergency warranting the dissolvement of the product. We would dissolve also if the product we injected wasn’t aesthetically pleasing, but if there is nothing wrong with the look we advise that you let nature take its course and let your body metabolise it naturally as there are risks involved with using the agent Hyaluronidase. We will have a full consultation regarding this treatment plan if this is the way you would like to proceed.

Will I need a consultation?

Yes, you will need to come for a pre-treatment consultation to take a full history, etc and to order your product in.  You will need to make a second appointment for your treatment.  This time give you enough to make an informed decision on whether this is the treatment for you. 

How long does it last?

Depending on the product used and where we put it varies, but in general you will see the results lasting between 6-9 months. Some of the thicker fillers can last 12-18 months.

Who can’t have dermal filler injections?

A pregnant or breastfeeding woman cannot have treatment. People who have severe allergies or anaphylaxis, on a course of antibiotics or/and on Roaccutane for acne.

Can I fly after having dermal filler injections?

Yes, you can but we advise you to wait 7 days before going on any long-haul flights, as the increased cabin pressure for such long periods of time can disturb the setting of the filler and can increase bruising.