Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are injectables that work to replenish the volume that is lost as a person ages. These products are made from various naturally-occurring substances that, when placed beneath the epidermis, increase plumpness. Dermal fillers are a popular option among older adults who want to reduce the signs of aging as well as younger adults who wish to enhance their facial contours or correct minor flaws.
- How Long Do Fillers Last?
- Who Is A Good Candidate For Dermal Fillers?
- What Are The Benefits Of Dermal Fillers?
- What Can Dermal Fillers Be Used For?
- What Are The Different Types Of Dermal Fillers?
- What’s The Difference Between A Dermal Filler And Botulinum Toxin?
- How Long Do Dermal Fillers Injections Last?
- How Soon Will I Notice The Results?
- Are There Any Potential Side Effects?
How Long Do Fillers Last?
Fillers can last anywhere from 6 months to two years depending on the type of injection as well as the placement. This is why it is so important to go to an experienced injector to help enhance the results.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Dermal Fillers?
Most adults make great candidates for dermal fillers. The ideal patient does not smoke and is in good general health. It is important to understand what can be achieved with dermal fillers, as well. Though convenient, this treatment option cannot correct severe volume loss without affecting the natural nuances of the face. Generally, dermal fillers are sought by people in their middle-phase of life. Most patients are in their mid-thirties or older. However, patients in their twenties can also be good patients, and often seek treatment for issues like thin lips.
Patients happiest with the improvements achieved with dermal fillers typically understand the benefits and limitations of this treatment. Unlike plastic surgery procedures, fillers are intended for short-term improvements.
What Are The Benefits Of Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers offer a convenient, safe, and proven way to address various cosmetic concerns. There are few risks of complications and is no need for downtime. Patients also appreciate the immediate results they see with dermal fillers. For the correction of mild to moderate signs of aging, dermal fillers provide beautiful, natural-looking results. Most dermal fillers do not require allergy testing and are safe enough to combine with other procedures.
What Can Dermal Fillers Be Used For?
We use dermal fillers for a wide variety of cosmetic concerns, including:
- Lines around the nose and mouth
- Lines from the corners of the mouth to the chin
- Mild jowls at the jawline
- Poor jawline contours
- Receding chin
- Poor cheek contouring
- Thin or uneven lip shape
What Are The Different Types Of Dermal Fillers?
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid fillers make up the bulk of available injectable products. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring chemical that the body makes as a form of lubrication for joints, eyes, and skin. The way that hyaluronic acid works is by helping cells retain moisture. When this substance is injected into the skin, it binds to water molecules to make your skin appear hydrated, plump, and healthy. It is appropriate for all skin types, even sensitive skin. Hyaluronic acid fillers create volume that can last up to 24 months.
To offer patients the noticeable benefits of hyaluronic acid fillers, our team carries the RHA collection of fillers. This brand of filler consists of RHA Redensity, RHA2, RHA3, and RHA4. It is exclusive to certain offices and is the only brand we provide.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (RADIESSE®) has been extensively studied and widely used around the world for several years. This type of filler corrects moderate to severe facial lines and creases. It is also used to enhance volume by providing firmness and structure to the deeper layers of the skin. In addition to increasing tissue volume, Calcium Hydroxylapatite helps to stimulate collagen production.
Sculptra®
Sculptra is composed of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), and while classified as a dermal filler, the injectable works differently. Rather than immediately smoothing lines and creases, Sculptra creates low-level inflammation that causes no side effects but stimulates collagen production. The effects of this treatment occur gradually over a few months and typically require a series of injections to achieve the best results. Because Sculptra improves the structural framework of the face, it is often a good option for reducing the appearance of hollowness in the cheek area. The results of treatment last approximately 2 years.
SKINVIVE™ by JUVÉDERM®
SKINVIVE by JUVÉDERM is designed to enhance the skin’s natural smoothness and hydration, specifically targeting the cheeks. While traditional fillers are intended to change facial volume and contours, SKINVIVE™ focuses on hydrating the skin from within, promoting a natural, radiant glow. Clinically proven to deliver consistent results for up to six months, it can provide a significant improvement in skin texture and appearance. Patients report enhanced skin smoothness, hydration, and an overall healthier look.
What’s The Difference Between A Dermal Filler And Botulinum Toxin?
Dermal fillers are different than botulinum toxin (BOTOX® Cosmetic) in the way that they smooth lines and creases. BOTOX® Cosmetic is a neuromodulator. This means that its action is within muscle tissue. Dermal fillers act directly in the superficial layers of the skin. Because botulinum toxin relaxes muscle contractions, this type of injectable is primarily used for dynamic wrinkles such as frown lines. These lines develop as a result of repetitive muscle movements, usually across the upper face. Dermal fillers are primarily used around the eyes and on the mid- and lower face.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Injections Last?
Dermal fillers can achieve results that last up to 2 years. This depends on the consistency of the filler and its use. Thinner fillers, such as those used for lip augmentation, tend to last shorter periods than more structural fillers, such as those used for cheek or chin augmentation. Every person’s body also has its own rate of metabolism, which affects how quickly any dermal filler will degrade. In most cases, patients can expect their results to last at least 9 months.
How Soon Will I Notice The Results?
With the exception of Sculptra injections, dermal fillers provide immediate improvements. At first, the area may look slightly puffy. This is due to the natural swelling that occurs around injections. Within an hour or two, swelling should be resolved and the beautiful results of dermal filler treatment become apparent.
Are There Any Potential Side Effects?
There are very few side effects associated with dermal filler injections when treatment is provided by a trained, licensed professional. On rare occasions, fillers have led to significant swelling or other complications. This is not because of the product but because of performance. We cannot stress enough how important it is to choose your dermal filler provider carefully.
The most common side effects that occur after injectable treatments are minor swelling, bruising, and redness. Swelling and bruising typically last 24 to 48 hours, but it can take up to two to four weeks to completely resolve. Some people notice subtle bruising. Each of these effects typically fades within a few hours.
Schedule A Dermal Filler Consultation
If you are interested in dermal filler treatment or want to learn more, schedule a consultation with us by calling 508-567-3202 Our practice serves Fall River, Massachusetts and surrounding areas.