At Central CosMedic, Dr Danielle Waxman provides dermal filler treatment for patients across Havelock North, Hastings, Napier and the wider Hawke’s Bay. Every treatment is planned and carried out by a doctor, with the aim of a subtle, natural-looking result that still looks like you.
Dermal fillers can restore lost volume, soften lines and folds, and add shape and definition to areas such as the lips, cheeks, chin and jawline. Two of the treatments patients across Hawke’s Bay ask about most are lip fillers and tear trough filler. This page explains what fillers are, which areas they can treat, and what to expect if you decide to go ahead.
Dermal fillers are soft, gel-like injectables made from hyaluronic acid, a substance your body already makes. It is found naturally in the skin, where it helps hold moisture and keeps skin plump and supple. The fillers used at Central CosMedic are made from non-animal hyaluronic acid and are designed to blend into the surrounding tissue. Hyaluronic acid fillers can also be dissolved if needed, which is an important safety advantage.
As we get older, the body makes less hyaluronic acid and collagen, and the fat pads that support the face gradually thin and shift. This can lead to hollowing, flatter cheeks, deeper folds and a softer jawline. Fillers replace some of that lost volume and support, working with your existing facial structure.
Fillers can be used in one area or across several, depending on your goals. Areas commonly treated at the clinic include:

This image shows the appearance before and immediately after Dermal Fillers treatment. Individual results and recovery vary.
Good filler treatment starts with looking at your face as a whole, rather than a single line or area.
Dr Waxman takes a full health history, including any medications you take, and talks through what you would like to change.
She looks at your facial structure, skin and proportions, and considers whether filler is the right option or whether another treatment would suit you better.
You will hear the likely results, risks and side effects in plain terms, along with the costs, before you decide anything.
If you go ahead, Dr Waxman builds a plan around your needs, budget and timeline. Some people prefer to build their result gradually over more than one appointment.
Treatment usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes per area. Most fillers contain a local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable, and numbing cream can also be used.
Afterwards you may notice some swelling, redness or tenderness, and bruising is possible. Most people go back to their usual activities straight away. Dr Waxman will give you aftercare advice, which usually includes avoiding strenuous exercise, alcohol and saunas for 24 hours.
You will see a difference straight away, with the final result showing once any swelling has settled, usually within two weeks. Depending on the filler used, the area treated and how your body breaks it down, results typically last from 6 months to 2 years. A top-up at around 6 months can help maintain your result.
Fillers restore volume, while anti-wrinkle injections relax the muscles that cause lines when you move your face. The two are often used together for a more balanced result. If another treatment, such as a skin booster or collagen stimulator, may suit your goals better, Dr Waxman will let you know.
Common side effects include swelling, redness, tenderness and bruising where the filler was injected. These usually settle within a few days to a week.
Less commonly, fillers can cause lumps, infection or an allergic reaction. A rare but serious risk is filler blocking a blood vessel, which is one of the main reasons treatment should always be carried out by a trained medical professional. Dr Waxman has a detailed understanding of facial anatomy and is equipped to manage complications if they occur.
Dermal fillers are Class III medical devices and are not suitable for everyone, including during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Your health history is reviewed before anything is recommended, and Dr Waxman will talk through the risks and potential benefits so you can make an informed decision. If you have any concerns after treatment, contact the clinic.
Dermal Filler, Medical Device Class III to smooth facial wrinkles and folds, correct facial atrophic scars, restore or enhance the lips, or restore facial volume. Dermal filler has risk and benefits. Ask your doctor if dermal filler is right for you. For product information, check with your doctor or from product details with the supplier.
Botulinum toxin injections are prescription medicine for the treatment of frown lines, horizontal forehead lines and crow’s feet round the eyes. Botulinum toxin injections have risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if botulinum toxin injection is right for you. If you have side effects, see your doctor. You will need to pay for your botulinum toxin injection and clinic fees will apply. For details on precautions & side effects consult your doctor or go to www.medsafe.govt.nz. Botulinum toxin injections lasts about 4 months and further courses of treatment may be necessary. Should only be administered by trained medical professionals.