Menu
Menu
Menu
Dermal fillers (often referred to as “liquid facelifts”) are a type of cosmetic treatment that uses biocompatible hyaluronic acid, which can be injected into the skin to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, enhance facial contours and even treat acne scars. Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule naturally produced by your body that helps to keep skin viscous and hydrated. The most common areas treated with dermal fillers include the lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds (smile lines), marionette lines (lines from the corners of the mouth), temples, and chin.
Providing an individualized treatment to enhance specific facial features, dermal fillers help patients have a natural-looking rejuvenation from signs of aging. The treatments are also popular because they are relatively safe and minimally invasive. The process often takes less than an hour, and there’s no need for surgery or sutures.
Many dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid, an element that helps to retain moisture in the skin for a smooth and supple texture. As we age, our body’s natural hyaluronic acid levels decrease, which can lead to wrinkles or lines in those areas where it’s most needed. Dermal fillers help restore volume and hydration in these areas so that they look smooth and youthful again.
So, why you should consider this treatment? Here are some of the reasons:
In addition, because the treatment is usually done with very tiny needles, there’s no need for surgery or downtime — you can get back to your daily life instantly!
They are classified according to their chemical composition, with the most common types being biodegradable polymers such as calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) and hyaluronic acid derivatives like Restylane and Juvederm. These materials gradually break down through natural body processes without disturbing other tissues. Nonbiodegradable fillers, such as poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) and silicone gel also exist but may involve more complexity for removal if required. Therefore, dermal fillers should be carefully discussed with a healthcare professional before selecting a particular type or brand that best suits individual needs.
Restylane is a great option for those looking to restore lost volume and treat deep facial wrinkles without the added worry of using animal products. It is an ideal choice for healthcare providers, as it is safe for use on all skin types, reducing the risk of adverse reactions. This hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler is injected directly into the skin to improve elasticity, volumize cheekbones and lips while providing subtle blends that leave a natural-looking result.
Restylane is commonly used on the forehead and glabella area, around the mouth and lips, to correct nasolabial folds (smile lines), and Marionette lines (oral commissures) as well as for lip augmentation. It comes in different strengths (12, 20, 30, and 40), so you can choose the one that suits your needs.
Sculptra derma filler is an injectable collagen stimulator that helps to improve the volume and contouring of aging skin. This treatment works to replace lost structural elements of the dermis, therefore softening wrinkles, augmenting facial shape, and restoring volume in cheeks, temples, and lips.
The active ingredient in Sculptra is poly-L-lactic acid, which is injected into the skin to stimulate collagen production and add volume. The product is made up of very small particles, which are absorbed by the body over time. Results typically can last between 18–24 months after a series of treatments and require minimal downtime or post-treatment care.
It is an effective non-surgical rejuvenation solution to address signs of aging such as fine lines, folds, and volume loss in the face. Unlike other dermal fillers, Rediesse does not break down easily, so it can provide sustained results for up to two years with just one treatment. This wrinkle-fighting product is composed of calcium hydroxylapatite (a naturally occurring substance in our bodies), which is suspended in a carboxymethylcellulose gel. It helps to fill in creases around the eyes, nose, and cheeks as well as reduces the appearance of deep folds around your mouth.
The application process is simple: after the anesthetic cream is applied, Radiesse filler will be injected into the chosen area with a very thin needle. On average, patients see peak effects from Radiesse filler treatments within three to nine weeks after injection, although individual results may vary depending on age, skin type, product placement, and injection technique. You will need touch-ups every nine months to a year for optimal benefit.
The unique formulation of Rediesse also helps to promote collagen production, increasing skin elasticity and improving the overall complexion. All these factors make the treatment a great choice for those looking for a long-lasting solution with minimal risks and side effects.
In the world of dermal fillers, Juvederm is a game-changer. Because it is made from an FDA-approved formula that has been clinically tested for safety and efficacy, it’s considered a great option for most patients (even those with hypersensitive skin). It is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler that can be used to treat a variety of cosmetic concerns, including facial wrinkles, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, lip enhancement, and more.
The procedure itself is painless and requires little downtime afterward, so you can return to your normal routine immediately without feeling self-conscious about your appearance. Patients may need numbing medication to make the treatment comfortable. Usually, Juvederm lasts anywhere from 6 to 12 months, however, results can depend on the injected area, skin type, and the individual’s lifestyle habits. It’s always best to consult with the practitioner to determine how much filler you’ll need for the desired effect that lasts as long as possible.
Common side effects include temporary bruising and swelling, redness or tenderness, allergic responses, or uneven results due to the product being injected in an incorrect area. In rare cases, dermal fillers can cause more severe problems like scarring and infections. Therefore, it is important to work with experienced professionals who use sterile techniques and are knowledgeable about these risks. If you have an existing health condition like diabetes or allergies, make sure to inform your practitioner beforehand.
When it comes to determining how often you should get touch-ups with dermal fillers, the answer varies from person to person. Over time, the filler will break down and be absorbed by your body, so keep in mind that regular maintenance sessions may be required. Results typically last between 6–12 months depending on the type of filler used, the area treated, and how well your body metabolizes it. You should always consult with a certified aesthetic professional, who can give you personalized advice on how often you should get touch-ups based on your individual needs and goals.
Anyone looking to add volume, contour their face, or reduce the signs of aging might be a good candidate for dermal fillers. Specifically, this treatment is ideal if you have laugh lines, wrinkles around the eyes and mouth, hollow cheeks or temples, and thin lips.
The treatment can seem intimidating, but there’s no need to worry! Sure, the idea of having needles injected into your skin probably isn’t super-appealing, but it’s relatively painless. During the procedure, you may experience slight discomfort and some additional pressure when massaging the area afterward. Fortunately, specialists apply a numbing cream beforehand to minimize any potential pain.
Before the injection, the area is cleaned and a topical numbing cream is applied. Then, a clinician starts to gently inject a small amount of filler into multiple locations on your face with a very fine needle or cannula. After the injection is complete, the practitioner massages the area to ensure the filler is evenly distributed. Usually done in under 20 minutes, you may experience swelling and tenderness for a few days following your treatment, however.
Hyaluronic acid-based fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane typically last 6–12 months, whereas Radiesse and Sculptra can last up to 2 years. Ultimately, the duration of the effects is subjective, as they can vary between individuals due to skin type and lifestyle factors such as sun exposure and facial movements like smiling.
The best way to narrow down your options is to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional who specializes in cosmetic treatments. They will be able to assess your skin type and address any of your concerns, then recommend an optimal product based on the texture of your skin, and the results you hope to achieve.
Dermal fillers and Botox are both great options for treating wrinkles and plumping up the facial volume, but they’re not necessarily interchangeable. Dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid, which provides your skin with some moisture and a bit of lift. Botox, on the other hand, is a type of neurotoxin that temporarily paralyzes muscles to diminish their contractions and reduce wrinkles.
Depending on your individual needs, one may work better than the other. For instance, if you need to target deep lines caused by intense muscle movements (like between the eyes or the brows), then experts say that Botox is likely more effective than any filler. But if it’s more superficial damage you’re looking to address, like lifting sunken cheeks or smoothing fine lines around the mouth, then dermal fillers might be what’s best for you.
There is always a risk when it comes to injectables that they may migrate from the injection site over time. This means that the filler may move within your skin, causing irregularities and potentially settling in an unwanted area of your face. Professional and experienced practitioners can often prevent migration by being careful about placement and giving the right aftercare instructions.
The treatments are relatively affordable, depending on the type of filler you choose and the number of sessions you need. You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1000 per syringe. The cost also varies based on the area being treated, as well as your doctor’s level of expertise and experience. Ultimately, it’s best to consult with your dermatologist beforehand to get an idea of what works best for your body and budget before committing to dermal fillers.
Thankfully, most types of dermal fillers can be easily reversed if the patient is no longer happy with the results for whatever reason. A physician may use an enzyme known as hyaluronidase, which acts as an eraser and breaks down any injected fillers. The effects typically take about 24 hours before completely wearing off, however, it may take several days for swelling or bruising to go away entirely.
These types of injectable treatments typically last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the specific filler used. Results may vary based on the affected area, age of the patient, health condition, lifestyle habits (such as smoking or sun exposure), and specific product used. As with any cosmetic treatment, regular maintenance is essential to achieve the desired appearance and extend the longevity of treatment effects.
Dermal fillers are generally regarded as safe when administered by a skilled professional — they are approved by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in conjunction with other treatments, such as Botox. While these products do not require an allergy test before the injection, there is still some risk of allergic reaction or infection due to improper handling or storage of these products. Therefore, it’s not superfluous to check the credentials of your injector before the procedure.
Dermal fillers, while often touted as a way to naturally improve the look of aging skin, do come with contraindications. For instance, they should not be used in the following conditions:
Patients should also be cautious when taking certain medications to reduce bruising or possible hypertrophic scarring — some anti-coagulants are not compatible with dermal filler treatments. If you have had any other facial cosmetic procedures, such as chemical peels or laser treatments, it is important to inform your medical professional beforehand.
Before your appointment, you should get a consultation with a treating physician to discuss the desired expectations and ensure safety. Following these steps can help ensure that your dermal filler procedure goes as smoothly as possible:
After a dermal filler treatment, you can expect to see an immediate improvement in the injected areas with volume and contour. You can also experience some mild swelling and bruising in the injection area — most of this should subside after a few days, but further discoloration might last for up to one week.
To ensure optimal results and minimal side effects, it’s essential to follow your technician’s aftercare instructions. Here are a few recommendations to keep in mind after your dermal filler treatment:
Don’t forget to report any signs of unusual reactions like persistent redness, inflammation, or tenderness that don’t go away with time. Finally, remember that beautiful results take time: you can expect full effects 3–4 weeks post-treatment as the collagen starts to build up.
Our team of experts has been working with the most advanced procedures available for years, and we’ve seen the effects that this type of treatment can have on a person’s confidence and self-esteem. That’s why we offer an array of dermal filler treatments, including Restylane, Radiesse, Juvederm, and Sculptra.
The process is simple — you should schedule a consultation and find out what your options are. You can tell us what your goals are, how much time and money you’re willing to spend on treatment, and what kind of results you’re hoping for. Then we take it from there! We’ll discuss which dermal fillers would be best for you, how long each injection will take, what kind of downtime you can expect after treatment, and more.
Once we’ve talked it all through, we’ll set up an appointment at our office. Don’t let your fear hold you back from getting the results you want — let us help!
