What is dermal filler? What is it made of? Where is dermal filler used? Is it safe? This Blog will cover all the most frequently asked questions about dermal filler so you can decide if it is right for you.
The 2 most common types of FDA approved dermal filler in the USA are hyaluronic acid based fillers and biostimulatory fillers. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the body, with high concentrations in soft connective tissues, skin tissue and joints. It has become the most popular kind of injectable filler on the market today. Juvederm, Belotero, and Restylane are popular brands of these types of fillers. Biostimulatory fillers contain polylactic acid or calcium hydroxylapatite to stimulate your body’s own production of collagen. Calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse being the most common brand) is found naturally in human bones and is a mineral-like compound, while polylactic acid (Sculptra being the most common brand) is a synthetic filler.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers have an immediate effect whereas biostimulatory fillers take 4-6 weeks to see an effect. The main differences between these 2 types is HA fillers slowly become degraded by your body anywhere between 1-2 years and can be dissolved if undesirable effects are realized. Biostimulatory fillers are semi-permanent because the body’s production of collagen is stimulated for re-growth. No reversal agent is present for these types of fillers.
So what kind of filler is used, for who, and where? HA fillers are most commonly injected in younger people because their body has not yet started to metabolize their own supply of collagen which starts in the late 30’s. HA fillers can also be used on anyone who wants a temporary volumization of an area, and the ability to have it completely reversed if they choose. Biostimulatory fillers are popular with people who have experienced age-related volume and bone loss in the face and hands.
Areas HA fillers are typically used include:
- facial fine lines and folds
- cheeks
- temples
- lips
- jawline
- chin
- hand rejuvenation
Biostimulatory fillers are typically used in:
- cheeks
- jawline
- hand rejuvenation
The Golden Method I have created utilizes a very specific measurement approach to achieve the most natural, symmetrical and beautiful result. Many people who have never had filler injections before are fearful of getting “duck lips”, an overly filled or puffy look, and/or many other undesirable outcomes. These effects can result from an injector who over treats, injects in the wrong tissue plane, uses the wrong product, etc etc. Injecting with filler is an art and must be consistently fine tuned, practiced and improved upon. The injector must have an eye for beauty and use the needle as their paint brush. To be truly talented as an injector one must be medically educated, be obsessive about safety, use the right tools/products, and know how to create shapes and outcomes congruent with patient expectations. Understanding EXACTLY what the patient wants from a successful consultation with completely open communication is key. Delivering the exact result they want is what differentiates average injectors from the BEST injectors.
Treatment with dermal fillers is safe, minimally painful, quick, and with little to no downtime. As with any injection, swelling and occasional bruising may occur, and it is necessary to follow post-procedure guidelines for 24-48 hours after treatment. The first 24 hours is the period of maximal swelling, especially with lip injections, so do not be surprised if the next day the appearance is much larger than what you expected. Swelling subsides in the following days after and can be reduced with icing and/or Arnica. Pre-procedure it is recommended to stop all fish-oil supplements, anti-inflammatories, alcohol, herbal supplements and blood thinners as these substances increase likelihood of bruising and swelling.
If you have any questions about dermal fillers please contact me for a free online consultation. Concierge appointments available in South Florida for all of 2021 for your safety and convenience.
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