Dermal fillers have been used for more than four decades as a non-surgical treatment core in aesthetic medicine. They are used to soften folds, provide a lifting effect, restore volume and rehydrate the skin. Increasingly popular amongst patients – and our team – dermal filler injectables offer customized solutions for many as part of their immediate and long-term self-care plan. We’re always asked what dermal fillers are, how they differ with other cosmetic treatments, and whether it is the right choice for an individual.
Let’s answer a number of these important questions on why dermal filler treatments are so well loved by many.
What are dermal fillers?
The majority of dermal fillers consist of hyaluronic acid (HA) which is naturally found in our bodies. HA can draw up to 1,000 times its weight in water, and helps to keep the skin hydrated, firm and supple. Dermal filler treatments are injected either deep into tissue, threaded into folds or delivered via a series of droplets just beneath the skin. Different fillers from different brands (there are several in our clinic) may vary in their makeup, such as thickness. Depending on the cosmetic goal and anatomic site, specific dermal fillers are selected for use in a customized treatment.
How are dermal fillers different from other cosmetic injectable treatments?
HA dermal fillers restore depleted volume which contributes to deepening of folds and hollowing of facial regions. Others primarily rehydrate the skin. Dermal fillers can also contour and shape to refine facial and body definition. Neuromodulators (e.g. Botox, Xeomin) relax specific muscles that contribute to wrinkles seen with facial expression such as bunny lines, crow’s feet and frown furrows.
Both treatments can be part of a highly personalized program to help you feel and look your best. A cosmetic consultation is an important first step to explore injectable options that are aligned with your goals and values.
What areas can be treated with dermal fillers?
There are many possibilities when it comes to dermal filler treatments. Depending on the specific injectable, it can be used not only on the face, but the neck, decolletage, hands and body. Overtime, we all experience a decline in the quality and quantity of our collagen and elastin. Incremental dermal filler treatments can help to change the trajectory of how we age, both inside and out.
What can you expect following dermal filler treatments?
By restoring volume, most dermal fillers provide instantaneous visible results. Others, such as Juvéderm Volite® or Radiesse® treatments, typically produce their hydrating and collagen production effect, respectively, gradually over the course of a month.
There can be some redness and swelling that last for up to several days. As dermal fillers typically contain anesthetic, you will experience some numbness (and even difficulty moving the mouth or tongue with lip filler treatments) for a couple of hours afterwards.
Reach out if you are interested in dermal filler treatments but not sure where to start – we can help you understand and develop a customized plan that fits with your skin goals.