10 Lunch Time Fillers

1. Sculptra

What it is: Sculptra contains Poly-L-lactic acid, which has been used in medicine for over 25 years. Good for: Eliminating wrinkles and worry lines quickly and non-invasively. How does it work? Injections go under the skin and into the dermis. The number of injections are based on the depth of wrinkles and the area being treated. The eff ects are not immediate, although some swelling and redness after the procedure can be expected. It is a good idea to consult the medical professional who conducted the operation after three weeks to see if more injections are needed. The effects from the procedure can last up to two years. Cost: Treatment costs start from £350 per procedure.

2. Bio-Alcamid

What it is: Bio-Alcamid is an injectable dermal fi ller that is comprised of 96% water and 4% synthetic reticulate polymer. Good for: It can be used on the face to combat wrinkles, lips and nose, as well as other areas of the body. How does it work?: After the implants are injected and the initial swelling goes down (which takes a few hours) subtle changes to the area operated on will take place day after day for up to eight weeks, until the procedure will be complete. For at least a month after implantation, avoid direct sunlight or sun-tanning booths, as this can alter the pigment and shift the implant. Cost: Prices range from approximately £300 to £1,200 depending on the amount used. Procedures for the face are at the cheaper end of this scale.

3. Restylane

What it is: Made from synthesised hyauronic acid, this substance is found in humans and animals, but as it is man-made there is no risk of allergic reaction. Good for: Second only in popularity to Botox, it is most commonly used for dissolving hard frown lines and wrinkles, as well as enhancing lips. How does it work? There are diff erent types of Restylane depending on the area and the depth of the fold, line or wrinkle. Gel-like in substance, Restylane is injected into the dermis, expanding and smoothing out the area. The procedure takes 30 minutes, and the eff ects are immediate. There may be some redness or itching but this will pass. It usually lasts between six to nine months before a follow-up injection is needed. Cost: Depending on the type of Restylane you use, it can cost between £250 and £350.

4. Teosyal

What it is: Made from non-animal hyauronic acid, similar to Restylane, Teosyal is a synthetic product that can be injected into the skin. Good for: It is used for the improvement of facial wrinkles, worry lines and for lip augmentation. How does it work? Teosyal is injected into the mid to deep dermis underneath the area that needs treating. Gel-like in substance, it expands underneath, be it wrinkles or the lips, pushing the skin out. Diff erent types of Teosyal are available, depending on the severity of the wrinkles or lines to be improved. The treatment requires no pre-test and only takes 30 minutes to administer, with only slight irritation, redness and itching for a couple of days. Following the operation, direct sunbathing or sun-tanning booths should be avoided, as should massage or in the case of lips, puckering. The results are immediately visible after the procedure and will usually last between 9 and 12 months before another injection is required. Cost: Prices range from £200 to £400 depending on the type of procedure you want. For hard lines and wrinkles, more Teosyal may be required which will cost more.