Facial Fillers
Facial fillers, also known as dermal fillers, are injectable products that can help to restore volume and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. They can be used to address a range of concerns, including nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and thinning lips. In this article, we’ll discuss what facial fillers are, how they work, and the options available at Borealis Dermatology.
What are Facial Fillers?
Facial fillers are injectable products that are designed to restore volume and fullness to the face. They are typically made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps to hydrate and plump the skin.
Facial fillers can be used to address a variety of concerns, including:
- Nasolabial folds (the lines that run from the nose to the mouth)
- Marionette lines (the lines that run from the corners of the mouth to the chin)
- Thin or deflated lips
- Hollow areas under the eyes or in the cheeks
Did you know…
that non-surgical cosmetic treatments like Restylane and Juvederm are the fastest growing form of aesthetic medical enhancements in the U.S.? The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that minimally invasive cosmetic procedures were up by 6 percent in 2012 over 2011 despite surgical procedures being down by 2 percent. More than 1.4 million dermal injections were administered to American patients in 2012 alone – up from 1.3 million in 2011.
How Do Facial Fillers Work?
Facial fillers work by adding volume to the treatment area, which can help to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. The results of facial fillers are generally immediate, and they can last from several months to over a year, depending on the specific product used and the area of treatment.
Common types of facial fillers include Juvéderm, Restylane, and Sculptra. These products are FDA-approved and have a long track record of safety and effectiveness.
Types of fillers
Loss of volume and fine lines are visible signs of sun damage, caused from the skin surface thinning. Fortunately, we have several treatments to reverse the sign of aging and keep you looking and feeling youthful.
Belotero
As we age, particular components of the skin are lost, making us more susceptible for wrinkles and lines. In order to enhance the skin’s appearance amidst the aging process, Belotero is an injectable dermal filler containing hyaluronic acid that integrates directly into the skin. Due to its low-density, it is an ideal option for fixing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Radiesse
To reduce the appearance of wrinkles and folds on the face, consult us about Radiesse. This filler naturally stimulates more collagen production, which is a protein that is responsible for the strength and elasticity of your skin. Increased collagen will provide natural volume and improve elasticity of your facial skin.
Restylane Kysse
As we age, our lips lose volume, color, and elasticity as well. In order to combat these changes that result from aging, many individuals choose to turn to Restylane Kysse, a lip filler that adds volume, smooths upper lips lines, and intensifies lip color.
Restylane Kysse is an injectable gel that consists of hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance within your lips. Given that the hyaluronic acid in Restylane Kysse exists in gel form, it combines with water and swells, which allows it to give the lips a smoother and fuller look. Further, the presence of hyaluronic acid stimulates the production of collagen in the lips, allowing for more soft and plump lips.
Restylane Lyft
We lose our natural fat as we age, and it is especially noticeable on the cheeks and hands. When the fat volume decreases on the cheeks, your skin sags and the Jowls lines (lines around the jawline) become more prominent. When the fat volume decreases on the hands, wrinkles form more easily and abundantly in the hands. The sagging of the skin and visible Jowls lines can make you look older than you are. The Restylane Lyft is perfect for providing volume on these areas and boosting your confidence again. This filler is an injectable gel consisting of hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance for volume in your skin.
Restylane Refyne
As the skin ages, nasolabial folds (lines that run from your nose to the corners of your mouth) and marionette lines (lines that run from the corners of your mouth to the chin) become more prominent. Use Restylane Refyne to minimize these fine lines and wrinkles forming around your mouth and smile with confidence! This filler also provides support to your natural facial expression and help maintain natural movement when smiling, frowning, etc. Through the use of hyaluronic acid- the main component of Restylane Refyne- the appearance of these lines will be greatly reduced thereby giving the skin a more youthful appearance.
Sculptra
It is naturally to lose and produce less collagen as we age, causing the skin to become thinner, drier, and less elastic. The decrease in collagen production also leads to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. You may be interested in Sculptra, an injectable filler that provides facial volume and replenish the lost collagen. This filler consists primarily of poly-L-lactic acid, which directly stimulates collagen production.
Sculptra can help give the skin a more youthful appearance by:
- Treating deep lines
- Reducing the appearance of folds
- Correcting creases
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any risks associated with facial fillers?
All medical procedures carry some potential risks, including infection, scarring, and changes in skin texture or color. However, the risks associated with facial fillers are generally low. Many experience minor redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site, but these side effects typically go away after a week.
How long do the effects of facial fillers last?
The length of time that the effects of facial fillers last will depend on the specific product used and the area of treatment. In general, the effects of hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as Juvéderm and Restylane, can last for several months to over a year. The effects of Sculptra can last for up to 2 years.
Can facial fillers be used on all skin types?
Facial fillers can be used on most skin types, but it’s essential to speak with a healthcare provider to determine if you are a good candidate for the treatment. Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain medical conditions may not be able to receive facial fillers.
Are there any special instructions to follow after receiving facial filler treatments?
After receiving facial filler treatments, it’s important to avoid touching or rubbing the injection site and to avoid lying down for at least 4 hours. Patients should also avoid strenuous exercise and excessive sun exposure for at least 24-48 hours after treatment. It’s important to follow all post-treatment instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
Will I be able to return to work or other activities immediately after facial filler treatments?
Most patients are able to return to work or other activities immediately after facial filler treatments. However, excessive exercise or activities that increase your heart rate should be avoided. Some patients may experience redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site, which may take a few days to a week to subside. It’s important to discuss any potential downtime with your healthcare provider before receiving treatment.
Am I a candidate for facial fillers?
You may be a candidate for dermal facial filling if you are unhappy with your facial volume or are looking for a non-surgical way of smoothing fine lines. Many types of facial injections are available; and our staff would be happy to help you find out which filler is right for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or find out more about dermal injections.
What should I expect during a facial filler injection?
Getting a facial filler is as easy as dropping by our office on your lunch break. Using a very fine needle, your filler will be injected just beneath the surface of your skin. You will experience little or no discomfort and can return to work immediately after the procedure.
What types of results can I expect from a facial filler?
Results vary from patient to patient and are never guaranteed. However, most patients begin to see visible results within just days of undergoing a dermal injection. Results may continue to improve over the course of several weeks. Depending on the location of your injection and the type of filler used, the effects of your filler may last as long as 6 months or more.
Choosing the Right Facial Filler
Choosing the right facial filler depends on several factors, including the specific concerns, the desired outcome, and any underlying medical conditions. It’s essential to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs.
At Borealis Dermatology, our team of board-certified dermatologists has extensive experience with facial fillers, and we can provide a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. Schedule an appointment with us and discuss your treatment possibilities.