Dermal Filler Treatments

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected under the skin to restore volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours.

About Dermal Filler

Overview

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines, soften creases, or enhance facial contours. This popular facial rejuvenation treatment is chosen by more than 1 million men and women annually as a cost-effective way to achieve a more youthful appearance without surgery or downtime. Various FDA approved filler products are utilized by cosmetic providers, categorized by the substance they are made from. It is essential for safety reasons to ensure that only FDA approved, brand name fillers are used, which are exclusively available through a licensed medical providers.

Types

There are various options for fillers, including synthetic materials and substances naturally found in the body, as well as using fat from the individual’s own body.

Types of dermal fillers:

Hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally transpiring acid in the skin responsible for providing volume and hydration. The body’s production of hyaluronic acid diminishes with age, with results from HA injections typically lasting between six months to a year.
Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), a filler type comprising a substance present in bones. The effects of such fillers generally endure for approximately a year, often used by healthcare providers for addressing deeper wrinkles.
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a substance that facilitates the body’s collagen production. PLLA is frequently employed by healthcare providers to mitigate deep facial wrinkles, with results potentially lasting two years or more.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fillers, containing collagen and minuscule spheres that remain beneath the skin post-injection. These spheres contribute to enhancing skin volume and firmness.
Renuva fillers- Autologous fat grafting is a process where fat is taken from one part of the body and injected into the face. This technique allows for a more natural enhancement.
Fat grafting- Using fat from one’s own body can provide long-lasting results.

Overall, there are different choices available for facial fillers, including those that utilize the body’s own fat.

Why use dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are utilized for various reasons. As individuals age, the body experiences a reduction in collagen levels. Collagen, a key component present throughout the body including the skin, muscles, bones, and connective tissues, diminishes with age leading to skin laxity, volume loss, thinning, decreased elasticity, and sagging.

Individuals may opt for dermal fillers to address the following concerns:

Enhance volume in sagging skin
Create symmetry or definition in facial features
Increase fullness in lips and cheeks
Minimize wrinkles and creases on the face
Address cellulite concerns
Restore youthfulness in aging hands

Pros

Immediate results
Quick procedure, typically less than an hour
Minimal recovery time
Results can last months to years
Less expensive than elective surgical procedures

Cons

Potential risks with Dermal fillers

Asymmetrical appearance
Bleeding, bruising, redness, pain and swelling
Damage to skin, leading to scars
Infection, potentially causing necrosis
Lumps or bumps under the skin

What to Expect

What happens during a dermal filler visit

Consultation with healthcare provider before procedure
Discussion of medical history and medications
Examination of face and discussion of goals
Marking of face for injection areas
Recommendation of specific filler type
Review of possible side effects and recovery time
Cleaning of skin before procedure
Application of numbing cream (optional)
Injection of fillers under skin with thin needle
Possible mild pain or discomfort during injections
Cleansing of skin after procedure
Use of ice pack to reduce pain and swelling
Bruising, swelling, and discomfort may occur post-procedure
Results may be seen immediately but vary for each individual

Facial fat grafting procedure is more involved and invasive as it involves liposuction to remove fat from body

Purified fat is then injected into face
Outpatient procedure with potential for up to two weeks of recovery time

Recovery

It is advised to refrain from disturbing the treated area following a cosmetic procedure. Touching, rubbing, or applying pressure to the area can potentially displace the filler or lead to complications. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid dental work, facials or massages for the first two weeks post-treatment.

Similarly, intense physical activity should be minimized for the first 24-48 hours after the procedure. Vigorous exercise can increase blood flow, potentially causing the filler to move from the treatment area.

Common side effects such as mild swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site can be alleviated by using a cold pack. It is suggested to avoid aspirin and alcohol, as they can exacerbate bruising.

Furthermore, exposure to sun and heat should be limited as they can worsen swelling or discomfort post-treatment. It is advisable to shield the treated area from the sun and use a high SPF sunscreen if necessary.

It is advisable to strictly follow the aftercare instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Safety Profile

The potential risks associated with dermal filler injections vary depending on the specific filler used and the permanence of the substance. These risks include acne-like skin eruptions, asymmetry, bleeding, bruising, skin damage leading to scarring, infection, lumps, palpability of the filler under the skin, skin necrosis, rash, redness, swelling, and under- or over-correction of wrinkles.

In rare cases, the filler may be accidentally injected into blood vessels, leading to potential blockages and serious consequences such as skin loss, wounds, or even loss of eyesight.

It is crucial that you discuss all your questions and concerns directly with your provider, including complications that may require urgent care.

While positive outcomes are anticipated, there is no guarantee of complete satisfaction with the results. Given the potential for significant complications, it is essential to seek treatment from a qualified provider who is knowledgeable about the risks and equipped to address any complications that may arise.