Facial Volume & Augmentation Gels

In Australia, the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) has set strict guidelines regarding the words we use to advertise these gels. We cannot mention brand names or describe the products in ways many clients are familiar with. These guidelines have been created with patient safety in mind. Many products are available on the market, but not every product is suitable for everyone. This is why we start everyone with an individual consultation with Doctor Sam. He can carefully assess you and advise you of the most appropriate treatment.

There are many volumising and augmenting gels on the market. Determining their longevity depends on the substance, the amount used, where it is placed and how quickly your body metabolises the product. Typically, most gels last between 6 months to 2 years. During your initial consultation, Doctor Sam will discuss the longevity of the product, along with any recommended top-ups, with you.

Medical gels are made of a variety of substances. However, they typically comprise a substance found naturally in the fluids in your eyes, joints and skin. This substance lubricates and cushions your joints and tissues — and helps hydrate your skin by attracting and holding water. It also combines collagen and elastin to give your skin structure and elasticity.

Medical gels are used in myriad ways and, consequently, come in various formulations. Some are thicker than others and create volume, while others are thin and runny and spread evenly underneath the skin.

We also use gels that help stimulate collagen.

Before your treatment, you must have an initial consultation with Doctor Sam to fully assess your face and skin, discuss your concerns and expectations and determine the best treatment options for you.

You’ll start your treatment appointment with some numbing cream or a nerve block with a local anaesthetic. All treatments are performed by Doctor Sam or an experienced registered nurse.

Your treatment time will depend on the number of areas being injected, but it will usually be around 30 minutes. A gel-like fluid will be injected through tiny needles or cannulas into the appropriate location using various techniques to disperse the filler smoothly and carefully.

You’ll notice the effect of the gel almost instantly; however, there may be a touch of swelling for 24 to 48 hours. NB: it may take 3 to 4 weeks for the dermal filler to stabilise and fully settle into the skin.

As we age, our facial structure changes. For example, our bone tissue decreases, levels of fatty tissue change, and gravity affects various tissues and structures. In particular, areas prone to volume loss include our temples, brows, cheeks, jawline and lips. At the same time, visible ‘tear troughs’ under our eyes (that appear like bags) occur.
After being assessed by a medical professional, if you are deemed a suitable candidate, we can address these issues with volumising or augmenting gels to rebalance the face, bringing back symmetry and more youthful contours.

Different departments within the Australian government (namely the TGA and AHPRA) have introduced strict guidelines regarding advertising cosmetic materials and procedures. Consequently, you’ll notice that terms to describe various treatments are no longer used online.

We understand this can be frustrating for the consumer; however, we are committed to adhering to the Australian government’s guidelines. These guidelines are one of the many reasons we now start every patient’s journey with a one-on-one consult with Doctor Sam. He can assess your face or body, listen to your concerns, and advise you on the most appropriate treatment for you.

NB: It is legally allowable for Dr Sam to discuss specific treatments and brand names during your face-to-face consultation.

As with any medical or cosmetic treatment, side effects may occur. However, we are happy to note that this rarely happens. Mostly, any side effects are short-lived. For example, patients sometimes experience minor bruising or swelling in the area for 1 to 7 days. There are also things you can do before your procedure to help minimise any side effects, which will be discussed with you before treatment.

On extremely infrequent occasions, patients may experience more severe side effects. Severe but extremely rare side effects include stroke, permanent blindness or death. For this reason, it pays to choose a clinic such as Samara Aesthetics, where a medical doctor is always present, along with registered nurses with appropriate emergency equipment available.