What are injectable facial fillers and how do they work

Injectable facial fillers are a minimally-invasive, non-surgical anti-aging solution. Sometimes referred to as a “liquid facelift,” facial filler treatments are quick and often start to show results immediately, with little downtime after treatment. Facial fillers typically offer temporary results and work by injecting biomaterials into the skin that have either been lost due to the process of aging, such as hyaluronic acid and collagen, or that will help stimulate cellular function to restore elasticity, moisture, and firmness or otherwise lessen the appearance of lines and wrinkles within the skin for an overall younger appearance. Facial fillers can revitalize the skin, correct superficial to severe lines and wrinkles, add volume, and even sculpt the facial contour.

What is the golden ratio (aesthetic)?

The golden ratio is a mathematical equation that results in a ratio of 1:1.618 that scholars have found in nature, architecture, art, and many aspects of life for centuries—even the Egyptian pyramids display the golden ratio. It is hypothesized that we are naturally attracted to this golden ratio and find beauty in this symmetry. Because of this accepted and subconscious attraction, the golden ratio has become a guiding principal in facial rejuvenation when seeking to balance the face with symmetry to provide the most aesthetically pleasing results.

How are soft tissue fillers injected into the skin?

First and foremost, soft tissue fillers should only ever be injected by a licensed health-care professional with experience with facial fillers. Though it is not a surgical procedure, dermal injections are still a medical procedure and require a knowledge of the underlying facial and dermal structure in order to safely perform the injection. Facial fillers are injected intradermally into the area requiring correction using a fine needle, though the depth of the injection, size of the needle, and injection technique used will vary by product and severity of the issue being corrected.

Material used in injectable cosmetic fillers

There are many different cosmetic fillers currently available that use a variety of materials both natural and synthetic. A very popular material is hyaluronic acid, which is a protein that is found naturally in the human body that helps keep the skin moisturized. As the skin ages, hyaluronic acid production slows down. Hyaluronic acid is available in both natural and synthetic form depending on the filler. Collagen, poly-L-lactic acid, and calcium hydroxylapatite are also materials used in some facial fillers on the market at present.

Risks of using cosmetic injectables

Though cosmetic injectables are safe to use, there are some risks associated with treatment, including some possible temporary side effects.

Side effects: Common mild side effects associated with dermal filler injections include bumps under the skin, discoloration, redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. Risks: As with any procedure involving injections, there is a risk of infection. There is also a risk of allergic reaction or hypersensitivity, though allergy tests prior to treatment session can help prevent this.

Treatment techniques

There are a variety of treatment techniques that may be used, and your doctor will be able to determine which is suitable for you based on both the filler being used and the condition of your skin. There are many injection techniques that can be used, including a linear threading technique, serial puncture, fanning, cross-hatching, depot, fern, and cone technique. Depending on the product, there may be a specialized treatment schedule with injections taking place across multiple sessions over a certain number of months.

What are the best dermal fillers?

Many dermal fillers offer specific benefits, and your doctor may even choose to use a combination of different products in order to achieve the best results. However, Juvederm and Restylane are perhaps the most popular dermal fillers currently available. Not only do they have the best safety profile of any fillers currently on the market, they have also been used for many years with great success.

Cost

There are many factors that may determine the cost of a facial filler treatment, including the brand and type of filler being used, the location of the medical office you are receiving the injection, the experience of the health-care provider administering the injection, and the duration of the procedure. However, on average, facial filler treatments can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,300 per 1ml of filler solution.

What you should know before and after dermal fillers treatment

Before receiving your dermal filler treatment, you should be aware of the product you are being injected with and whether or not it is FDA-approved, the results you hope to achieve, the possible side effects, and the background of the medical professional administering your injections. After treatment, you should be aware of proper aftercare like applying sunscreen daily, how long the effects are expected to last, and when you can receive touch up treatments to maintain results.

How long do dermal fillers last?

The longevity of the effects will vary depending on variety of factors. Not only does each filler have its own expected duration of results, but the longevity of the effect will also depend on the patient. The age and lifestyle of the individual, as well as the technique being used, and the area being treated will all affect the duration of results. Facial fillers can last anywhere from 3 to 18 months or more, though most commonly results are expecting to last from 4 to 6 months.

Are there any permanent dermal fillers?

Yes, there are permanent dermal filler options. Permanent fillers are usually made of the materials silicone or collagen. There is also a permanent technique of filling that involves displacing deposits of the patient’s own fat (usually from the stomach or thigh) into the face. Injection technique is incredibly important when it comes to implanting a permanent filler, with the result relying 99% on the technique.

In a nutshell

There are many safe and effective products available if you are seeking facial rejuvenation, with many options involving a minimally-invasive, pain-free procedure with quick and long-lasting effects that will help you look younger and feel more beautiful.