Dermal Fillers are injections used to smooth out creases and reduce wrinkles in the face, restoring youthful fullness.
Also known as wrinkles fillers, Dermal Fillers have been called “liquid facelifts” because they don’t have the downtime of a regular surgical facelift.
Smile lines and crow’s feet become more apparent with time because we lose subcutaneous fat in our faces as part of the aging process. Dermal fillers can be a good option for individuals with early signs of aging. They can also be used to plump thin lips and improve the appearance of recessed scars.
Although non-surgical treatments cannot achieve the same results as surgical treatments such as a facelift, they can be a good option that provides immediate results at a lower cost.
Dermal fillers are often used in conjunction with other treatments such as BOTOX. Talk to your doctor who will recommend a treatment that will achieve your desired results.
Types of Dermal Fillers
There are two types of wrinkle fillers: temporary and permanent.
Most soft tissue fillers are temporary because they contain material that is absorbed by the body over time.
The materials commonly used in dermal fillers include:
- Collagen: A type of protein that comes from tissue in the body. Sources of purified collagen are from either cow or human cells.
- Calcium hydroxylapatite: A mineral that is found in our teeth and bones. These particles are suspended in a gel and last about 18 months.
- Hyaluronic acid: A a type of sugar that can be found in our skin and cartilage.When combined with water, it swells, causing a smoothing effect. The effects last approximately 6 to 12 months.
- Polylactic acid: Also known as PLLA, it is a biodegradable, biocompatible polymer that is used in absorbable stitches and bone screws. Given in a series of injections over a period of several months, the effects of PLLA generally may last up to 2 years.
Dermal Fillers Procedure
The results from Dermal Fillers can be either permanent or temporary, depending on the type of filler.
- After examining the areas of your face to be augmented, specific points may be marked as injection sites for the soft tissue filler.
- The injection site will be cleaned with an antibacterial solution.
- During the procedure, your doctor will make several small injections and gently massage the area. Although not painless, the injections are usually tolerated by most people.
The entire procedure can vary from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of areas to be treated. Any markings on your face will be cleaned off once the doctor is satisfied with the results.
The treated area may be tender or swollen for 14 hours, and you may be advised to avoid alcohol and sun exposure.
Dermal Fillers Risks and Complications
Your doctor will explain the risks and potential complications of dermal fillers.
The may include:
- Bruising or swelling of the treated area
- Asymmetry
- Infection of the injection site
- Skin rash or redness with itching
- Tenderness
Before deciding to have a procedure using soft tissue fillers, it is recommended that you select a doctor who is trained to perform the procedure.
Contact us to determine if dermal fillers are a suitable treatment for you.
Cost of Dermal Fillers
Dermal filler pricing depends on the specific injectable volume and formulation—such as Juvéderm®, Restylane®, or Belotero®—required for your facial rejuvenation. Costs are typically quoted per syringe, reflecting the complexity of treating nasolabial folds, marionette lines, or performing lip augmentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable cosmetic treatments used to restore lost volume, enhance facial contours, and soften the appearance of certain lines and wrinkles. They are commonly used in various areas of the face to create a smoother, fuller, and more youthful-looking appearance without the need for surgery.
How do dermal fillers work?
Dermal fillers are carefully injected beneath the skin to add volume and support to targeted areas. The treatment can help improve facial contours, restore fullness, and reduce the appearance of certain wrinkles. Results are typically visible soon after treatment and vary by product and individual.
What areas can be treated with dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers can be used in many facial areas depending on individual goals. Common treatment areas include the cheeks, lips, jawline, chin, temples, and folds around the mouth. Treatment plans are customized to address each patient’s unique anatomy and aesthetic objectives.
Who is a good candidate for dermal fillers?
Good candidates are healthy adults seeking non-surgical facial enhancement or rejuvenation. Individuals looking to restore facial volume, improve contours, or soften the appearance of certain wrinkles may benefit from dermal fillers. A consultation helps determine whether treatment is appropriate for specific goals.
How long does a dermal filler treatment take?
Dermal filler treatments are typically performed in an office setting and can often be completed within a relatively short appointment. The exact treatment time depends on the areas being treated, the amount of filler used, and the complexity of the treatment plan.
Is there downtime after dermal filler treatment?
Most patients return to normal daily activities shortly after treatment. Temporary swelling, redness, bruising, or tenderness at the injection sites may occur. These effects are generally mild and resolve over time. Your provider will offer specific aftercare instructions based on your treatment.
How long do dermal filler results last?
The longevity of dermal filler results varies depending on the product used, treatment area, and individual factors. While results are temporary, many patients enjoy improvements for several months or longer. Maintenance treatments may be recommended to help preserve the desired appearance.
When will I see results from dermal fillers?
Many patients notice an improvement immediately following treatment. However, temporary swelling can affect the initial appearance. As the treated area settles and healing progresses, the final results become more apparent, often within days to a few weeks depending on the treatment.
What are the risks associated with dermal fillers?
As with any injectable treatment, dermal fillers carry potential risks. These may include swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness, asymmetry, or temporary lumps. Rare complications can occur. A thorough consultation and treatment by a qualified provider can help support patient safety.
Can dermal fillers be combined with other cosmetic treatments?
Yes. Dermal fillers are frequently combined with other non-surgical cosmetic treatments as part of a personalized facial rejuvenation plan. Combining treatments may help address multiple concerns simultaneously and create more balanced, natural-looking results based on the patient’s aesthetic goals.
