Over time, just about everyone’s skin begins to lose volume and structure. That’s when lines and wrinkles begin to appear in the face. There are many options now available to improve the appearance of your skin, at a superficial level. These include topical creams and basic spa treatments. But when it comes to deeper wrinkles, injectable fillers offer the best and most immediate improvement. Today’s dermal fillers offer long-lasting results and don’t require an allergy test. The procedure is simple and can even be done during your lunch hour at your doctor’s office.
What Types of Dermal Fillers Are Available?
There’s never been a wider variety of dermal fillers available. In fact, new products continue to arrive in the market all the time. You’ve probably heard of Juvederm, but here’s some other common and highly-effective dermal fillers include:
Restylane
Restylane fillers are formulated with a synthetic form of the hyaluronic acid, similar to the biochemical that your body naturally produces to keep your skin supple. Restylane fillers can last 6 to 18 months or longer, depending on the location of the filler injection and your skin’s condition.
This product is best used for:
- Worry lines in the forehead
- Lip augmentation
- Wrinkles all around the mouth
- Flat or sunken cheeks
- Hollows around the eyes
- Volume loss in the back of the hands
Sculptra Aesthetic
This FDA-approved collagen stimulator is formulated with poly-L-lactic acid, which spurs your skin to create more collagen over time. Sculptra works more deeply and gradually than other fillers, developing results that last up to 2 years.
Sculptra is best for deep lines and folds such as:
- Nasolabial folds (laugh lines)
- Marionette lines
- Chin wrinkles
How Are Dermal Filler Treatments Performed?
Dermal filler injections are performed in your doctor’s office, often in less than 30 minutes of your time. During the treatment, a tiny needle is used to inject the filler beneath the wrinkle or depression, into your skin tissue. As most fillers include a small amount of lidocaine, patients generally experience minimal discomfort.
What Can I Expect After a Dermal Filler Treatment?
Normal daily activities can be resumed immediately following the treatment. Mild swelling at the treatment site may last for a few hours, and you might experience some slight bruising, which can generally be covered with makeup if it occurs. Results can best be evaluated after any potential swelling has gone down. Your medical practitioner knows that it is always better to err on the side of caution, using a little less filler initially. After the swelling subsides, you can always opt to increase the amount.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
The results from dermal fillers are temporary, but they can easily be repeated or ‘touched up’ when the effects start to fade.
Dermal Filler Frequently Asked Questions
Do dermal fillers make you age faster?
No, fillers like Restylane or Juvederm do not make your skin age more rapidly. Dermal fillers actually stimulate your skin’s collagen production, helping skin to become thicker, more resilient, and rejuvenated.
Are injectable fillers safe?
Yes, when performed by a well-trained and experienced injector, dermal fillers are considered very safe. You can expect some mild swelling, redness, and bruising after your treatment, but those issues tend to resolve within a few days. More significant side effects are possible but are very rare. Your provider will discuss potential side effects with you before your injections.
What if I wanted to remove the filler?
The body naturally absorbs fillers as time goes on. However, if you want to accelerate that process, hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane can be dissolved with an injection of hyaluronidase