Juvederm

Dispelling the myths about dermal filler

November 24, 2021 by Rebecca.Giffen1 Leave a Comment

The Private Clinic recently held a webinar which was hosted by Dr Tracy Mountford, founder and medical director of The Cosmetic Skin Clinic and named London’s ‘Top Doctor’ for ‘Filler by Tatler’s ‘Beauty & Cosmetic Surgery Guide’.

The webinar was a great insight into the world of dermal fillers and included a lot of information for any new patients who had not had the treatment before but also lots of interesting facts for those who may have already had dermal filler treatment.

Dr Mountford and her team of experts guided us through a series of treatment demonstrations, and before and after dermal filler results before taking the time at the end of the webinar to answer the viewers questions.

If you missed the webinar, you can view it here.

The main focus of the dermal filler webinar was to debunk some common myths about dermal fillers that many patients question us about during their consultations.

These myths include:

Myth 1 – Fillers will always look obvious and unnatural

This is a really common myth, often encouraged by newspapers or magazines who like to point out celebrities’ cosmetic treatment disasters. Most notably was Leslie Ash who over 20 years ago was photographed with a very swollen pout after having dermal fillers in her lips. Leslie has recently spoken out about her experience and urged people to ‘do their homework’ when seeking cosmetic treatments.

Dermal fillers can look obvious and unnatural when performed by an inexperienced person but in the majority of cases, dermal filler can look very natural and although a change to the face is noticeable, it will not be obvious that fillers have been used.

At The Private Clinic, dermal filler treatment is only performed by highly qualified and trained doctors, nurses, or surgeons to ensure that you only receive the best filler results.

Myth 2 – Dermal Filler treatment is painful

We can understand where this assumption has come from. The idea of having a needle stuck into your face is enough to make most people cringe but patients are often very surprised over how little dermal filler injections hurt.

Dermal filler injections are often supplemented with a dose of lidocaine which is a numbing solution, this means that as the treatment is performed, less pain will be felt. Patients are always welcome to have numbing cream applied before having dermal filler and very little discomfort should be felt.

At The Private Clinic, our caring team we endeavour to ensure that all patients are feeling comfortable throughout their dermal filler injectable treatment.

Myth 3 – Fillers are unsafe

This is a statement that could be argued that yes, fillers can be unsafe when in the wrong hands but in the right hands, when being used by highly experienced and trained professional doctors and nurses, they are very safe.

When it comes to selecting a clinic or individual to carry out your dermal filler treatment then research is key. Find out what their training is, what experience they have and also importantly what type of filler they use.

The Private Clinic uses the highest quality brand of temporary fillers including Juvederm® from reputable manufacturers such as Allergan the world leader in dermal fillers and maker of wrinkle relaxing injections. In 2020 Juvéderm® was the world’s leading brand for hyaluronic acid facial fillers.

Myth 4 – I am too old for fillers

There is no age limit for dermal fillers and there is no such thing as being too old, however this should be taken in relation to the realistic results that you are expecting to achieve. Dermal fillers can help to add volume and lift the face, but for skin that has significant drooping then they may not be able to deliver the results that you like and in cases like this, a combination of treatments will be recommended such as Ultherapy skin tightening.

The Private Clinic commits to always offering patients realistic expectations and honest advice when it comes to dermal filler treatment.

Myth 5 – When fillers wear off my lines will look worse

Dermal fillers is not a permanent treatment so eventually it will wear off and disappear from the body. Your lines and wrinkles will not look worse because of having filler, they may return which is why many choose to have dermal filler at regular intervals in order to maintain their results, but if you stop – your lines are likely to return. The important fact to remember is that dermal filler treatment does not stop ageing, whilst you are having dermal filler, your skin is still ageing in the background, and this is why lines and wrinkles will return.

At The Private Clinic our team of experts will be able to discuss this is more detail and provide you with information about what to expect after the dermal filler treatment has worn off.

Dermal Filler Treatment at The Private Clinic

At The Private Clinic all of our injectable treatments are carried out by cosmetic doctor, nurse or surgeon prescribers, who have undergone extensive additional training to qualify in prescribing and performing Dermal Filler injections. We pride ourselves on only using the highest quality brand of temporary fillers such as Juvederm® from reputable manufacturers such as Allergan which are renowned for their superior standards.

Read our Dermal Filler FAQs
See our Dermal Filler before and after photos
Take a look at our Dermal filler blogs

We have dermal filler clinics in: London Harley Street, Birmingham, Buckinghamshire, Leeds, Manchester and Northampton.

Aesthetic Doctors

Dr Hanson MBBS MSc MBCAM. GMC Number: 6136433
Dr Rosa Santa Cruz MD, PhD. GMC Number: 7441197
Dr Richard Brighton-Knight MBChB. GMC Number: 4196903

Aesthetic Nurses

Mel Recchia RGN
Marie Narsoomamode RGN, BSc. NMC Reference No: 92A1045E
Rachel Green, RGN
Le Xu, RGN
Marie Dolan, RGN

If you are interested in dermal fillers please contact us on 0333 920 2471 or use our online dermal filler contact form.

Valentine’s Lip & Skin Offer

February 5, 2018 by Steffanie Griffiths Leave a Comment

February has just arrived and that means Valentine’s Day is swiftly approaching. So much to do, so little time! But don’t worry; we’ll help you get the most important thing covered – you looking fabulous and utterly kissable for your date.

We’re helping you out with 20% off a Luxury Lip and Skin Bundle. Perfect pout – tick, perfect skin – tick. The gorgeous combination includes:

JUVEDERM SMILE or JUVEDERM HYDRATE

For a plumped up and fabulous pout, Juvederm Smile adds body and fullness to the lower and upper lips, while improving its contour and overall shape.

For smooth, youthful looking lips, Juvederm Hydrate smooths wrinkles around the mouth as well as making them appear fuller and more symmetrical.

Lactic Acid peel

Lactic Acid peels offer a multitude of benefits. The mild chemical peel deep cleanses, stimulates collagen production, evens the skin tone, brightens the skin, improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and tackles any acne. The treatment works by removing dead skin cell layers, while protecting the lipid barrier of the skin.

Even if you have sensitive skin, or have never had a chemical peel, a fabulous choice, lactic skin peels are considered particularly safe and gentle.

Profhilo (only available at selected clinics)

Stimulating collagen production and elasticity, the unique new discovery, Profhilo, improves the skin texture, firmness and tone to result in smoother, softer, healthier skin.

The injectable treatment is ideal for those with loose, crepey, wrinkled skin on the neck or face. Visible results after just 2 treatments.

The Valentine’s day 20% off offer is available at our London Harley Street, Northampton, Buckinghamshire, Bristol, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester and Glasgow Clinics. Prices and treatments available in the bundle however vary at different clinics, and these can be found on our Valentine’s Day Offer page.

The bundle must be prepaid for by Valentine’s Day, but can be booked for anytime 12 months after purchase, if you’d like to save the treatments for another special occasion. Further terms and conditions can be found on the Offers page.

Why The Private Clinic?

The Private Clinic are proud to offer an expert team of practitioners for our skin treatments, who are dedicated to achieving the best possible results for you. Treating patients for over 30 years, and achieving a 5 Star Trustpilot rating, with us you know you are in safe hands.

Committed to offering patients the most comfortable journey possible, we provide free consultations where patients can discuss their individual needs and requirements before treatment if preferred. These can booked via our website or calling 0333 920 9135 .

Crossing the Vermillion Border with Juvederm’s VOLBELLA

March 8, 2016 by dina.elbarbary Leave a Comment

Juvederm became somewhat of a household name for beauty aficionados after Kylie Jenner revealed that she uses the brand’s Dermal Fillers to plump up her lips. Specifically, the brand’s VYCROSS range (which includes products such as Juvederm VOLUMA and Juvederm VOLIFT ) is currently considered as being top of the line, but keeping in mind the current trend for Lip Augmentation, we’d like to highlight one product in particular: Juvederm VOLBELLA.

The VYCROSS line was designed to specifically target certain areas of the face, with VOLBELLA being intended for adding volume to the lips. The science behind these Dermal Fillers is what sets them apart, and is why VOLBELLA can be considered as one of the best Lip Fillers around.

What is VOLBELLA made of?

Like most high-quality Dermal Fillers, VOLBELLA is made out of a kind of carbohydrate fluid, commonly found in the eyes and joints, known as Hyaluronic Acid.

It acts as a cushion and lubricant that is constantly broken down and replaced by the body. As time goes by its effects fade, but that’s an advantage when it’s used for cosmetic purposes, as it allows for customisation and doesn’t restrict a patient’s options permanently.

What sets VOLBELLA apart other Lip Fillers?

The patented technology used to make VOLBELLA is wherein the genius of the product lies. It all comes down to how the Hyaluronic Acid is produced, which in this case required tweaks to be made at a molecular level, in order to alter the weight and consistency of the gel.

In doing so, your practitioner gains greater control over the injecting process, which is made smoother since the gel is easier to push through the syringe, and flows more steadily. Thanks to this, there is far less discomfort for the patient, and because VOLBELLA is so moldable, it becomes simpler to contour the lips and achieve natural looking results.

While other brands will have fillers made with 100% high molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid, VOLBELLA only uses 10% of the latter and 90% of its low molecular weight counterpart. By ensuring that the gel properties of the VOLBELLA filler are optimised to such an extent, the risk of lumps and bumps is minimised, along with the potential for bruising, or swelling.

The best part is that the effects of this generation of fillers last longer – with our patients reporting results that have spanned over 12 to 18 months.

Dermal Fillers at The Private Clinic

Dermal Fillers are useful cosmetic tools for those who prefer minimally invasive cosmetic treatments, but their application isn’t regulated, so we advise all our patients to only trust medical professionals to perform such treatments. Nurse Prescribers and Aesthetic Doctors are experts in their field and you can expect them to give advice you on the most suitable treatments for your desired results.

Aesthetic Doctors

Dr Hanson MBBS MSc MBCAM. GMC Number: 6136433
Dr Rosa Santa Cruz MD, PhD. GMC Number: 7441197
Dr Richard Brighton-Knight MBChB. GMC Number: 4196903

Aesthetic Nurses

Mel Recchia RGN
Dawn Lisa, RGN, RN(Child), SCPHN, PG Dip, BSc (Hons)
Ruth Atkins RGN
Lesley Dean RGN
Marie Narsoomamode RGN, BSc. NMC Reference No: 92A1045E
Ann Hampson RGN
Katie Evans RGN

We offer lip filler, chin filler, cheek filler, tear trough filler and non-surgical nose job filler.

We offer Dermal Filler and Lip Fillers treatments at our London Harley Street, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds Buckinghamshire, Northampton and Manchester clinics.

To find out more about dermal fillers or to book a consultation please call 0333 920 9135 or use our online dermal filler contact form.

Find out more about the safety of fillers.

How Being Pioneers Means Putting Patients First

October 19, 2015 by dina.elbarbary Leave a Comment

You may have noticed that here, at The Private Clinic of Harley Street, we pioneer treatments to offer our patients the most advance and effective treatments. But, you might be asking yourself how that translates to the care that we provide you with. Patient safety and satisfaction are the cornerstones of everything we do and we want to show you how being at the top of our game helps us work towards those goals.

In March 2015, BAPRAS (British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons) ran a safety campaign called ‘Think Over Before You Make Over’, to raise patient awareness of the risks involved in plastic surgery after a survey revealed some worrying figures about the industry. In light of recent debates, such as the ones centred on the safety of injectable treatments, plus scandals like the possible contamination of Silimed implants, we felt it would be appropriate to address the issue of safety once again.

What the stats say…

Let’s start off by putting things into context and revisiting a few figures.

According to BAPRAS, out of all the people having cosmetic surgery in the UK:

9 in 10 cosmetic procedures are carried out on women between 35-50 years of age
24% do not check their surgeon’s credentials
22% aren’t clear on the possible outcomes of their procedure
27% are not aware if any aftercare is available should something go wrong
59% of patients undertake surgery less than two weeks after their first consultation
53% say keeping costs down is a major consideration

And here are the top six surgical procedures for both men and women according to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS):

Breast augmentation: 8,619
Blepharoplasty (eyelids): 7,752
Face/Neck Lift: 6,402
Breast Reduction: 5,528
Liposuction: 4,627
Rhinoplasty: 3,690

Now that we have some perspective, let us show you the actions we take to try and protect our patients.

Pioneering professionals and techniques

The Private Clinic has very high standards that align with those of our doctors and surgeons. Our medical staff includes not only some of the UK’s best practitioners but Europe’s as well. Some have introduced treatments to the UK, others have pioneered treatments and made them their own, but the reason these highly skilled individuals have stuck with us for years is because we share the same approach in regards to patient safety and satisfaction. Unlike some practices, we will not perform procedures on people who are ineligible or unsuitable for them. We will also send you away if we don’t think we can provide the results that you want.

Before and after Rhinoplasty treatment by The Private Clinic's Mr. Davood Fallahdar. — Before and after Rhinoplasty treatment by The Private Clinic’s Mr. Davood Fallahdar.

One of the reasons why our staff have such high profiles – other than their charming personalities, of course – is because they strive to grow and evolve within their respective fields. For example, some of our surgeons are trained to be able to perform Rhinoplasty nose job procedures by using state of the art technology – instead of the traditional chisel and hammer – which allows for increased precision while reducing trauma to the area.

An implant being pushed through a Keller Funnel.

In a similar vein, we use Keller Funnels for Breast Augmentations, because the sterile cone-shaped instruments enable a no-touch technique for the placement of implants. It diminishes the size of incisions, as well as lowering trauma to implants and breast tissue.

Before and after Breast Augmentation at The Private Clinic.

Here’s another example: we’ve gathered some of the finest VASER Liposuction specialists in the UK under our roof. VASER technology makes it possible to break down and remove stubborn pockets of fat without the need of surgery, and our specialists were not only among the ones introducing this treatment to the UK, they’re also currently sought out as trainers and teachers due to their expertise.

An example of VASER Liposuction performed at The Private Clinic.

Just to be clear, our involvement doesn’t just stop at treatments – we follow through a patient’s journey all the way and guarantee full aftercare. This means that we’ll be there to support you during your recovery and should anything go wrong – even though we don’t expect it to – we will do everything in our power to rectify the issue with no added costs to you.

High-quality products

We pair our elite medical staff with high-grade products that are certified and reputable. For instance, we use Allergan’s world-known Wrinkle Relaxing Injections and their Juvederm Dermal Fillers. The reputation of these products precedes them and they’ve been used for years around the globe because of their efficacy.

Example of before and after the use of Juvederm Dermal Fillers.

We have also been lucky enough to dodge two bullets in relation to breast implant scandals. Our patient’s weren’t affected by the PIP scandal, which saw industrial-grade silicone used instead of a medical-grade product. Neither do we use Silimed implants, which are in the news for possible contamination. We favour Nagor implants, which are the only British manufacturers of silicone and saline implants. These products are made in regulated facilities and come with a lifetime patient guarantee. What’s more, their textured outer shell is aimed at reducing the risk of capsular contracture (when hard scar tissue forms a capsule around the implant) and is even safer when used in combination with a Keller Funnel.

Of course, quality comes at a…

Cost

For more than half of those having surgery (53%), cost was a major consideration, which comes as no surprise considering the state of our economy. However, we stand by the fact that you get what you pay for. A higher price usually comes with peace of mind that you’re in the safe hands of someone who’s spent years perfecting their skill. Cosmetic surgery changes your body – sometimes forever – and since you only have the one, why would you take a gamble on it?

Patient resources

We’ve also compiled a couple of patient resources to help patients take educated decisions about cosmetic surgery.

A list of questions you should ask when considering a procedure.
A guide for recovery times and risks, available in full size here.

Final words…

The bottom line is: we don’t compromise on patient safety and neither should you.

Think over before you make over.

theprivateclinic.co.uk

Brilliant ways to tackle wrinkles and sagging skin without surgery

August 13, 2015 by dina.elbarbary Leave a Comment

Going through life we frown, smile and laugh. It’s natural for our bodies to manifest a physical reaction to our emotions and surroundings. However, by doing so, we encourage the appearance of fine lines and dynamic wrinkles.

Additionally, with age, our collagen and elastin production lessens while we naturally start losing fat around our face. Combined, these can lead to a looser facial tone, wrinkles, hollow upper cheeks, and heaviness above the jaw line and around the chin, giving our skin a tired and aged look so let’s look at the different non-surgical treatments that aim to give your skin a new lease on life.

Wrinkles and lines

Wrinkle injections

The most popular and effective treatment for tackling the fine lines and wrinkles is wrinkle relaxing injections. The most renowned of these is Allergan’s Botox.

For those of you who fear the dreaded ‘frozen’ look, it’s important to realise that the key to a successful wrinkle injection treatment is an experienced practitioner, skilled in the art of moderation.

The injection works by relaxing muscles in the treated areas, leaving them unable to contract and reducing excessive facial movements.

Existing deep wrinkles are smoothed out and new ones are prevented from forming, with the effects lasting between 3-6 months. There is also a cumulative effect that means you might need fewer injections over time. The key here is not to wait until the toxin has completely disappeared. Your practitioner will be able to advise you on the most suitable top-up time for you.

On the flip-side, overdoing it is a sure-fire way to end up with ‘frozen’ unnatural results, which is why you need to have complete faith in your practitioner.

The reason this treatment has seen such success is because there is no downtime, and you walk away with revitalised and natural looking results.

Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are injected directly into wrinkles so as to plump the indented lines and add some volume.

To restore fullness to lips, sunken cheeks, and give more definition to the face, we inject temporary fillers containing hyaluronic acid (a natural substance found in the body).

Unfortunately there has been some controversy regarding fillers and there are some concerns that have to be kept in mind.

Firstly, there are over 160 kinds of fillers certified for sale in the UK and available for purchase and use by “non-healthcare professionals” as they are not classified as medicines.

Secondly, many patients are never made aware of the complications that can arise with the use of semi-permanent/permanent fillers, like the fact that although they last ‘forever’, they can only be surgically removed.

Moreover, because permanent fillers (often containing acrylic acid) work by stimulating an inflammatory reaction within the skin that makes scar tissue build up and lock it into place, the results and possible complications are unpredictable.

At The Private Clinic we only use the highest quality of temporary fillers and we are committed to our patients from start to finish, including after-care.

When fillers are administered correctly by regulated healthcare professionals, the treatment is quick, with results lasting between 6-12 months and no downtime whatsoever.

Facial definition and sagging skin

8 Point Lift

We mentioned dermal fillers earlier and the 8 Point Lift makes use of them to create a non-surgical facelift.

Also known as the Liquid Facelift, this specialised treatment targets key areas of the face to restore lost volume by combating the soft tissue loss that occurs with ageing.

The same rules as for dermal fillers apply but this technique offers a more complete solution compared to individual filler treatments with results lasting up to 18 months.

With the 8 point Lift there’s no risk of complications usually associated with a surgical facelift, it’s more affordable and there’s zero downtime.

Thread lift

The Thread Lift is highly specialised and requires a significant level of expertise to implement effectively.

Performed under local anaesthetic, the treatment sees anchoring sutures placed under the skin with the use of a fine needle that lifts sagging tissue.

The sutures have bi-directional cones that cling to the face’s tissue and do not need to be removed as they are principally made out of polylactic acid and are completely bio-degradable.

The acid has also been known to encourage collagen production, helping to add to the natural fullness of the face.

The procedure lasts between 30-60 minutes and the downtime is minimal but some slight bruising, swelling and mild tension may be experienced in the week after treatment.

The performing doctor will provide individually tailored advice taking into account a patient’s lifestyle to ensure recovery is as quick and easy as possible.

The Thread Lift is recommend for people over 30 who want to tackle moderate to prominent signs of ageing and want a more dramatic effect than individual wrinkle injection s or dermal fillers can provide.

That being said, the lift can be combined with other treatments such as dermal fillers, to add volume to hollow cheeks and the like.

Thermage

Gwyneth Paltrow and Oprah Winfrey have championed the use of Thermage to combat skin laxity and wrinkles but a few conditions have to be fulfilled in order to enjoy the best results this treatment has to offer.

The procedure itself consists of a hand-held piece being passed over problem areas and emitting radiofrequency technology to heat collagen so that it contracts and causes skin to tighten over time while the production of new and remodelled collagen will further the effects.

It’s the only non-invasive procedure that helps tighten and contour skin in a single treatment without any surgery, injections or downtime.

First generations of the treatment could be rather painful and The Private Clinic is one of the few UK clinics to offer the new ThermageCool Comfort Plus Technology (CPT) system.

Thermage CPT is especially designed for the face, neck and decolletage and incorporates a cooling system and a vibrating hand-piece that aims to try and keep discomfort to a tolerable minimum.

It is particularly important to get this treatment done by reputable and trustworthy professionals as very few physicians have the expertise required and incorrect use can lead to burns or scarring.

The trick with this treatment is that you have to have enough collagen in the first place to be able to stimulate it.

It works on mildly to moderately sagging skin and so is not usually recommended for patients over 65.

On the other hand, it works on all skin types and colours while also being a year-round treatment as it doesn’t require you to avoid the sun.

The procedure takes 45 minutes or over, depending on the size of the treated area, and makes the skin tighten so that the full effects will be visible after 3-6 months.

To find out more about our facial rejuvenation treatments, please call us on 0333 920 2471 or use our online contact form

We have skin rejuvenation and injectable clinics across the UK including, London Harley Street, Birmingham, Bristol, Buckinghamshire, Leeds, Manchester and Northampton.

#Trending The 8 Point Lift: the Non-Surgical Facelift using Dermal Fillers

October 23, 2013 by dina.elbarbary Leave a Comment

The Private Clinic now offers the 8 Point Lift Non-Surgical Facelift, also known as the Fluid Facelift and Liquid Lift. Non-surgical facelifts have risen to the fore recently thanks to celebrities like Judy Murray, mother of tennis star Andy Murray, who recently revealed how she underwent a non-surgical facelift herself, using micro-needling and pigmentation removal such as for example IPL.

As demand for non-surgical facelift options continues to rise, we have designed our comprehensive 8-point lift to generate impressive results, without any surgery or downtime.

Dr Amendola is trained and certified to carry out this specific treatment, which targets key areas of the face to lift and revitalise the whole lower and mid face.

The Private Clinic uses Juvéderm dermal fillers, a leading brand made by Allergan, for the 8 Point Lift, available at our city of London (Cheapside) clinic.

8 Point Lift available at The Private Clinic (City Clinic)

What?

The 8 Point Lift is a specialised treatment that restores volume to the face for a revitalising and rejuvenating effect, using dermal fillers.
It is a more holistic treatment compared to typical dermal filler treatments and offers a more complete solution to soft tissue loss associated with ageing than individual dermal filler treatments.
Results can typically last for around 18 months.

Why?

As we age we lose soft tissue in the face, resulting in drooping skin that visibly ages people.
The 8 Point Lift can restore volume to the face to lift and combat the sagging skin.

The face is usually the first thing people notice about someone. It’s usually always on show and many women and men look for ways to easily and comfortably look fresh and good for their age. Dermal fillers offer a solution but a lot of practitioners do not have the training or experience to achieve the great natural look many patients seek. This is where The Private Clinic comes in. We take the face and assess it in its entirety to establish the best possible treatment available.

The Private Clinic