Non-Surgical Aesthetics (FAQ)

Op. Dr. Fatih Dağdelen · Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery 

1. What are non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • Needle-based procedures: Botox, dermal fillers, mesotherapy and PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma).
  • Device-based procedures: Laser treatments, radiofrequency skin-tightening applications.
  • Minimally invasive procedures: Small interventions performed under local anesthesia.
  • Skin rejuvenation treatments: Chemical peels, microneedling and dermabrasion.
  • Face and body contouring: Techniques such as Ultherapy and HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound).
2. What are the advantages of non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • Fast recovery time: Most procedures are called “lunchtime aesthetics”.
  • No surgical incision required: There are no scars and no long recovery process.
  • Lower risk: They do not require general anesthesia and the risk of complications is lower.
  • Possibility of personalized treatment: Patient-specific planning can be done.
  • Lower cost: They are usually more affordable compared to surgical procedures.
3. What are the disadvantages of non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • The results are temporary: The effect of the procedure may range from 3 to 12 months.
  • They only provide a superficial effect: They cannot change muscle or bone structures.
  • They require repeated sessions: They must be renewed periodically to maintain the results.
  • Some procedures can have serious complications: Incorrect application carries risks such as vascular occlusion and tissue death (necrosis).
  • “Back-street” applications increase the risk: Procedures performed by inexperienced people can cause serious harm.
4. How long do non-surgical aesthetic procedures last?
  • Botox: 3-6 months.
  • Filler: 6-18 months, varying depending on the filler material used.
  • Mesotherapy: It shows its effect after 4-6 sessions and requires regular maintenance.
  • PRP: A noticeable result is obtained in the first 3 sessions; it needs to be repeated every 6-12 months.
  • Laser treatments: They vary depending on the person and the procedure, and usually last for several years.
5. What are the most preferred injection-based procedures among non-surgical procedures?
  • Botox: A muscle-relaxing injection used to reduce wrinkles.
  • Dermal fillers: Volumizing injections containing hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxylapatite.
  • Mesotherapy: Skin rejuvenation with injections of vitamins, minerals and enzymes.
  • PRP: Injection into the skin of platelets obtained from the patient’s own blood.
  • Fat injections: Using fat taken from other areas of the body to increase volume.
6. In which areas is Botox used?
  • Forehead lines: Reduces horizontal wrinkles.
  • Frown lines (glabellar area): Softens a harsh expression.
  • Crow’s feet: Eliminates fine lines around the eyes.
  • Teeth grinding (bruxism) treatment: Reduces teeth clenching by relaxing the jaw muscles.
  • Underarm and palm sweating treatment: Used to prevent excessive sweating.
7. Where are filler applications used?
  • Lip filler: Adding volume and defining contours.
  • Under-eye light filler: Reducing dark circles and a hollow appearance.
  • Cheekbone filler: Defining the facial contours.
  • Chin filler: Providing a sharper jawline.
  • Nasolabial (smile lines) filler: Reducing deepened lines.
8. What are the differences between PRP and mesotherapy?
  • PRP contains platelets obtained from the patient’s own blood, while mesotherapy consists of vitamins and minerals.
  • PRP supports skin renewal, while mesotherapy mostly provides moisturizing and vitamin support.
  • PRP is used to prevent hair loss, while mesotherapy can also be used in skin-tightening and fat-reduction treatments.
  • The effect of PRP lasts longer, while mesotherapy must be repeated regularly.
  • Both procedures can be applied together and recommended as a combined treatment.
9. What are the non-surgical facial rejuvenation methods?
  • Muscle relaxation with Botox.
  • Adding volume with filler injections.
  • Skin renewal with PRP and mesotherapy.
  • Skin tightening with laser and radiofrequency technologies.
  • Renewing the skin surface with microneedling and chemical peels.
10. What are the most common non-surgical aesthetic procedures for men?
  • Botox (for forehead and frown-line wrinkles).
  • Laser hair removal (shaping the beard and neckline).
  • Hair mesotherapy and PRP (preventing hair loss).
  • Under-eye light filler (reducing a tired appearance).
  • Skin rejuvenation and pigmentation treatments.
11. How long does the effect of Botox last and should it be repeated?
  • The effect of Botox usually lasts between 3 and 6 months.
  • With regular applications, the effect may last longer.
  • It is recommended to repeat it every 4-6 months to keep the muscles relaxed.
  • While the effect may be shorter in the first application, with repeated applications the muscles may stay relaxed for longer.
  • When applied incorrectly, Botox can lead to an overly frozen facial expression, so it should be performed by an experienced doctor.
12. How long do filler applications last?
  • Hyaluronic acid fillers usually maintain their effect for 6-18 months.
  • The effect of chin and cheekbone fillers can usually last 12-24 months.
  • Calcium hydroxylapatite-based fillers can last 12-18 months.
  • Polycaprolactone-based fillers (long-acting fillers) can last 2-4 years.
  • Since fillers are absorbed by the body over time, they need to be renewed regularly.
13. Can PRP stop hair loss?
  • Yes, PRP treatment can slow down hair loss and encourage new hair growth.
  • Platelets obtained from your own blood reduce hair loss by nourishing the hair follicles.
  • 3-6 sessions are recommended for the best results.
  • PRP treatment after hair transplantation can support faster growth of the transplanted hair.
  • PRP alone may not be sufficient; it may need to be supported with mesotherapy or medical drug treatment.
14. Which aesthetic problems can mesotherapy treat?
  • Reducing hair loss and encouraging new hair growth.
  • Skin renewal and moisturizing.
  • Reducing under-eye dark circles and fine lines.
  • Localized slimming and cellulite treatment.
  • Improving stretch marks and skin elasticity.
15. What are the non-surgical facelift methods?
  • Ultherapy (HIFU – High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound).
  • Skin tightening with radiofrequency.
  • A combination of microneedling and PRP.
  • Eliminating volume loss with filler injections.
  • Laser skin rejuvenation treatments.
16. In which areas are laser treatments used?
  • Eliminating skin spots and sun damage.
  • Reducing fine wrinkles.
  • Treating acne and acne scars.
  • Removing unwanted hair with laser hair removal.
  • Vascular treatments (for example laser treatment for broken capillaries).
17. Who are non-surgical aesthetic procedures suitable for?
  • People who do not want to have surgery or who are hesitant about surgical procedures.
  • Those who want to improve their aesthetic appearance without a recovery process.
  • People who want to achieve a natural appearance with small touches.
  • Those who want to see an effect in a short time, for weddings or special occasions.
  • Those who want to delay the signs of skin aging.
18. What should be considered after non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • After Botox, bending the head downward should be avoided for the first 24 hours.
  • After filler, excessive facial expressions should be avoided for the first 48 hours.
  • After laser and chemical peels, sunscreen should be used.
  • After PRP and mesotherapy, the area should not come into contact with water for the first 12 hours.
  • Very hot baths, saunas and steam baths should be avoided for the first few days.
19. What are the most commonly applied non-surgical aesthetic procedures in men?
  • Botox (for forehead, frown-line and eye-area wrinkles).
  • Laser hair removal (for shaping the beard and neckline).
  • PRP and hair mesotherapy (for preventing hair loss).
  • Chin filler (for a more masculine facial line).
  • Under-eye light filler (for reducing a tired appearance).
20. In which cases are non-surgical aesthetic procedures not recommended?
  • They are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
  • In people with chronic skin diseases (rosacea, eczema, etc.), some procedures should be applied with caution.
  • Injection procedures can be risky for people who use blood-thinning medications.
  • Some procedures are not recommended for people whose immune system is suppressed or who have an active infection.
  • Caution should be exercised in people with diabetes or a blood-clotting disorder.
21. How long is the recovery process after non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • After Botox, the recovery process is completed within 24-48 hours.
  • After filler procedures, slight edema and bruising may occur, but they resolve within 1 week.
  • After laser and chemical peels, the skin is completely renewed within 5-7 days.
  • With PRP and mesotherapy procedures, you can return to normal life within 24 hours.
  • After radiofrequency and ultrasound-based skin-tightening procedures, daily activities can be continued immediately.
22. What consequences can Botox lead to when done incorrectly?
  • A frozen expression and excessive loss of facial expression may occur in the face.
  • There may be an asymmetrical appearance of the eyebrows or a drooping brow problem.
  • Drooping of the eyelids (ptosis) may occur.
  • When injected into the wrong muscles, the shape of the face may change.
  • Applications performed by inexperienced people can lead to vascular occlusion or tissue loss.
23. How can swelling and bruising be reduced after non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • An ice compress should be applied for the first 24 hours.
  • Aspirin and blood-thinning medications should be avoided.
  • You should sleep with your head slightly elevated.
  • Arnica gel or anti-inflammatory creams can help reduce swelling.
  • Drinking plenty of water and reducing salt intake can speed up healing.
24. What should be considered after filler procedures?
  • No pressure should be applied to the area for the first 24 hours.
  • Very hot baths, saunas and the sun should be avoided.
  • The filled area should not be massaged or touched by hand.
  • Drinking plenty of water can help the fillers settle better.
  • Heavy exercise should be avoided for the first week.
25. In which cases is a chemical peel applied?
  • It is used to eliminate skin spots and sun damage.
  • It is applied to reduce fine wrinkles and signs of aging.
  • It is used in the treatment of acne and acne scars.
  • It helps even out uneven skin tone.
  • It makes the skin look smoother by tightening the pores.
26. How does PRP work for skin rejuvenation?
  • Platelets obtained from the patient’s own blood are injected into the skin.
  • It renews the skin by increasing collagen production.
  • It can reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
  • By maintaining the skin’s moisture balance, it makes it look brighter and more vibrant.
  • It is also widely used for hair loss treatment.
27. Who is laser hair removal suitable for?
  • The best results are obtained in people with fair skin and dark hair.
  • It is suitable for people who do not have hormonal imbalances.
  • It is ideal for people who want to get rid of their body hair permanently.
  • More successful results are achieved when a laser device suited to the skin tone and hair structure is chosen.
  • It is not recommended for pregnant women, people with skin diseases and people with an active tan.
28. How does ultrasonic facelift (HIFU) work?
  • High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) waves trigger collagen production by sending energy under the skin.
  • It creates a facelift effect without surgery.
  • It is applied for skin tightening and wrinkle reduction.
  • The results usually become apparent within 3-6 months and can last 1-2 years.
  • Since it does not require anesthesia, you can return to social life immediately after the procedure.
29. How is skin rejuvenation with radiofrequency done?
  • It increases collagen production by sending heat energy under the skin.
  • It can be applied for sagging in the face, neck and décolleté area.
  • It is a painless method that does not require anesthesia.
  • Usually 4-6 sessions are recommended, and its effects become apparent in the long term.
  • It gives a young and firm appearance by increasing skin elasticity.
30. From what age can non-surgical aesthetic procedures be performed?
  • They are generally not recommended for people under 18, but they can be applied in some medical situations.
  • Botox can usually be started after the age of 25 as a wrinkle-preventive measure.
  • Filler and PRP procedures can be preferred from the late 20s onwards to prevent skin aging.
  • The most suitable age range for laser hair removal is usually between 18 and 25.
  • Which procedure is suitable at which age varies depending on individual needs.
31. When can makeup be worn after non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • Makeup should not be worn within 24 hours after Botox.
  • Makeup should be avoided for 48 hours after filler.
  • Since the skin will be sensitive after laser and chemical peel procedures, makeup should not be worn for at least 5-7 days.
  • Makeup is not recommended for the first 12-24 hours after PRP and mesotherapy.
  • When the skin enters the healing process, light mineral-based makeup products should be preferred.
32. When can I start exercising after non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • Heavy exercise should be avoided for 24 hours after Botox.
  • Heavy sports are not recommended for 48 hours after filler procedures.
  • After laser and chemical peel procedures, you should not exercise for 3-5 days to prevent the skin from sweating.
  • Light walks can be taken after PRP and mesotherapy, but you should wait 48 hours for intense sports activities.
  • Since sweating after skin care procedures can increase irritation, light exercise should be preferred.
33. Which non-surgical aesthetic procedures are most suitable for men?
  • Botox (to reduce forehead, frown-line and eye-area wrinkles).
  • Laser hair removal (to shape the beard and neckline).
  • Chin filler (to achieve a more masculine facial line).
  • PRP and hair mesotherapy (to prevent hair loss and strengthen the hair).
  • Under-eye light filler (to reduce a tired appearance).
34. Within how many days after facial filler is a normal appearance achieved?
  • There may be slight edema and redness during the first 24-48 hours.
  • Swelling usually decreases significantly within 3-5 days.
  • A fully settled and natural appearance is usually achieved within 1-2 weeks.
  • You should wait 3-4 weeks for the fillers to settle completely and blend with the face.
  • Very hot and cold environments should be avoided during the first week.
35. In how many sessions does laser skin rejuvenation show its effect?
  • A slight improvement in the skin can be noticed after the first session.
  • The full results usually become apparent after 3-5 sessions.
  • The effects of laser skin rejuvenation procedures can last between 6 months and 1 year.
  • Sessions are usually applied 2-4 weeks apart.
  • Regular maintenance sessions are recommended to support skin renewal.
36. Who is chin filler suitable for?
  • It is suitable for people who want to define their jawline.
  • It is preferred to correct an asymmetrical chin structure.
  • It creates a sharper facial profile in people with an undefined jawline.
  • It is used to provide lower-face balance and improve facial proportions.
  • It is usually applied with hyaluronic acid fillers and lasts between 12 and 18 months.
37. What are the most common side effects after non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • After Botox, a mild headache and slight swelling at the injection site.
  • After filler, bruising, swelling and asymmetry.
  • After laser treatments, redness and sensitivity.
  • After a chemical peel, skin peeling and dryness.
  • After PRP and mesotherapy, slight redness and sensitivity at the injection sites.
38. What does under-eye light filler do?
  • It reduces dark circles and bruising under the eyes.
  • It provides a fresher appearance by eliminating hollowness under the eyes.
  • Since it contains hyaluronic acid, it moisturizes and rejuvenates the skin.
  • It gives a healthier appearance by reducing a tired facial expression.
  • Its effect can last 12-18 months and it can be renewed regularly.
39. How many sessions of mesotherapy should be applied?
  • Usually 4-6 sessions are recommended for skin rejuvenation.
  • 6-8 sessions can be applied for hair loss treatment.
  • 8-12 sessions may be needed in cellulite and localized slimming treatments.
  • Sessions are usually done 1-2 weeks apart.
  • After the treatment is completed, a maintenance session every 6 months is recommended.
40. Why is using sunscreen important after non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • After laser, chemical peels and microneedling, the skin becomes more sensitive to the sun.
  • If sunscreen is not used, the risk of skin spots and premature aging may increase.
  • The sun’s rays can damage newly formed skin cells and delay the healing process.
  • Using a sunscreen containing at least SPF 30 daily is recommended.
  • Direct exposure to the sun should be avoided, and additional protection should be provided with a hat and sunglasses.
41. What is the difference between Botox and filler?
  • Botox reduces wrinkles by temporarily relaxing the muscles, while filler fills wrinkles by adding volume to the skin.
  • Botox is usually used for expression wrinkles (forehead, around the eyes), while filler is applied to areas of the face with volume loss (lips, cheeks, chin).
  • The effect of Botox lasts 3-6 months, while the longevity of fillers ranges from 6 to 18 months.
  • Botox provides a wrinkle-preventive effect by limiting muscle movements, while filler fills existing wrinkles.
  • Both procedures can be combined with each other and applied together for facial rejuvenation.
42. How is laser treatment of skin spots done?
  • The laser breaks down melanin pigments by sending energy to the skin surface.
  • Skin spots lighten over time and the skin tone becomes more even.
  • Usually 3-5 sessions are recommended, with sessions 2-4 weeks apart.
  • Protection from the sun after spot treatment is very important.
  • It is one of the most effective methods for dark spots, melasma and sun damage.
43. How is non-surgical rhinoplasty done?
  • Small asymmetries in the nose are corrected with filler injection.
  • Hyaluronic acid fillers can make the nasal bridge smoother.
  • The tip of the nose can be lifted slightly with filler.
  • The procedure takes 10-15 minutes and its effect can last 12-18 months.
  • It offers a non-surgical alternative for people with a small nasal hump.
44. How long does it take for skin-tightening procedures to show their effect?
  • Methods such as Ultherapy (HIFU) give noticeable results within 3-6 months.
  • Radiofrequency treatments create a visible difference after 4-6 sessions.
  • It is necessary to wait at least 2-3 months for collagen production under the skin to increase.
  • After the sessions are completed, their effects can last 1-2 years.
  • Procedures such as laser and microneedling can also support skin tightening.
45. How is filler dissolving done?
  • Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with the hyaluronidase enzyme.
  • After the procedure, the filler dissolves completely within 24-48 hours.
  • It is used to correct incorrectly applied fillers.
  • The hyaluronidase procedure should be applied with caution for patients at risk of allergy.
  • Dissolving may not be possible for some permanent fillers.
46. How long do non-surgical facelift procedures last?
  • The effect of Ultherapy (HIFU) can last 1-2 years.
  • Skin-tightening procedures with radiofrequency can last 6-12 months.
  • A combination of filler and Botox can be effective for 6-18 months.
  • The duration can be extended by following a skin care routine and with repeated procedures.
  • Factors such as lifestyle, nutrition and sun protection can affect how long the results last.
47. In how many sessions does laser hair removal give permanent results?
  • Permanent results are usually achieved after 6-8 sessions.
  • Additional sessions may be needed depending on hair color and skin type.
  • Depending on hormonal status, some of the hair may grow back in some people.
  • Session intervals are usually between 4 and 6 weeks.
  • Faster results are obtained with darker and thicker hair, while the success rate is lower with light-colored hair.
48. In which areas is Botox applied for men?
  • Forehead lines (to reduce deep wrinkles).
  • Frown lines (to soften a harsh expression).
  • Around the eyes (to reduce crow’s feet).
  • Jaw and neck area (to prevent excessive jaw clenching).
  • Excessive sweating treatment (for the underarms, palms and soles of the feet).
49. Is smoking harmful after non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • Smoking slows down the healing process by impairing blood circulation.
  • It can reduce the effect of the procedures by delaying skin renewal.
  • Smoking after laser and chemical peels can cause pigmentation problems.
  • Smoking after PRP and mesotherapy can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
  • Smoking should be avoided before and after the procedures to get the best results.
50. What should be done to maintain the results for a long time after non-surgical aesthetic procedures?
  • Regular use of sunscreen slows down skin aging.
  • Healthy eating and drinking plenty of water preserve skin elasticity.
  • Regular maintenance sessions (PRP, mesotherapy, filler renewal) extend the effect of the procedures.
  • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption positively affects skin health.
  • Attention should be paid to professional skin care and anti-aging routines.
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Op. Dr. Fatih Dağdelen

Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
Over 30 years of surgical experience; founder of Dora Hospital.