Injectable dermal fillers are minimally invasive treatment options commonly used by top plastic surgeons. With these fillers, patients can address their aesthetic concerns about sagging or wrinkling skin in different parts of the neck and face. Before consulting with a plastic surgeon about injectable fillers, it’s important that you learn more about what they are, how they work, and what you can expect from this type of treatment. With this information, you can be sure to have an informed discussion with your doctor. Together, you will make the best medical and aesthetic decisions for your unique case.
What are injectable dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers help to diminish facial lines and restore volume and fullness in the face.
As we age, our faces naturally lose collagen and fat, two substances crucial to maintaining plump, youthful skin. The facial muscles are then working closer to the skin surface, so smile lines and crow’s feet become more apparent. Over time, the facial skin also stretches a bit, which adds to this loss of facial volume. Other factors that affect the facial skin include sun exposure, heredity, and lifestyle. For example, smoking as well as sunbathing can affect the ultimate appearance of your skin.
In these cases, patients seek a minimally invasive treatment. One such solution is dermal fillers, which are injectable skin-plumping chemicals, placed underneath the skin at the desired target treatment areas.
What are these fillers made of?
There is a variety of FDA-approved filler products. Generally, fillers treat different areas. Examples of some of these substances include the following.
- Hyaluronic Acid. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance. It helps keep skin plump and hydrated. HA fillers are typically soft and gel-like. The results are temporary, lasting 6 to 12 months or longer before the body gradually and naturally absorbs the particles. Most HA fillers contain lidocaine to minimize discomfort during and after treatment.
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite. Calcium hydroxylapatite is also a naturally occurring substance, found primarily in our bones. When used in a filler, the calcium particles are nearly microscopic and suspended in a smooth gel. The consistency of a CaHA filler is typically thicker than that of a hyaluronic acid filler. This filler typically lasts longer as well, about 12 months for most patients. Calcium hydroxylapatite stimulates natural collagen production and addresses deeper lines and wrinkles.
- Autologous fat injections. Autologous fat injections, also known as facial fat grafting, are the only injectable filler treatment that requires surgery. Your own fat is taken from another area in your body, typically using liposuction. The fat is then purified and injected into the face. This restores volume to the cheeks, temples, lower eyelids, and other areas. Fat injections require specialized training to perform safely and achieve great results. As a result, an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon should perform this injection.
There are several other materials that injectable dermal fillers can be made from. Speak to your doctor about which type of filler would be right for you.
How can these fillers improve my skin’s appearance?
Dermal fillers can improve your skin’s appearance in a variety of ways. Your plastic surgeon will be able to tell you which filler can achieve your specific aesthetic goals. A few of the common issues they address are as follows.
- Diminish vertical lip lines
- Plump & enhance the lips
- Improve symmetry among facial features
- Smooth out lines around nose and mouth (a.k.a. marionette lines, smile lines, and parentheses)
- Enhance & restore volume to sunken cheeks or temples
- Smooth out a chin crease
What can I expect from the treatment?
Injectable dermal fillers are non-surgical and typically completed during an office visit. Your initial treatment will begin with a consultation, during which you will meet with your cosmetic surgeon to discuss your concerns and goals.
Pre-treatment consultation
During your consultation, your cosmetic surgeon will evaluate your area of concern and review your medical history. While the risks associated with dermal fillers are minimal, you need to fully disclose your medical history prior to treatment, as certain allergies, skin and neurological conditions, or medications can jeopardize your safety or results. For instance, you need to tell your cosmetic surgeon if you have been taking NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen) or blood thinners, as these increase the likelihood of bruising.
Your filler treatment
Just before the actual treatment, the area will be cleaned, and you may be given a topical anesthetic to numb the area prior to injection. Many filler products also contain lidocaine, a mild anesthetic, which is intended to help minimize discomfort during and after your treatment. Your provider will then inject a precise amount of filler strategically beneath the skin.
Depending on the product and the areas treated, you should be able to notice results immediately after receiving filler injections. Some patients experience mild bruising and swelling, but these are temporary and should subside over the days following treatment. You will be able to go back to your normal activities right after treatment, but your cosmetic surgeon may ask you to take the day off from exercise or other strenuous activity.
Find a qualified plastic surgeon near you
Dr. Anthony Berlet administered injectable dermal fillers for hundreds of patients over the course of his 20 years of experience. As a top plastic surgeon in the northern New Jersey and New York City areas, he can answer all of your questions. Along with his team of experienced and caring staff, you will work together to understand your ultimate aesthetic goals. With the best outcomes possible at top of mind, Dr. Berlet can help you! To learn more about dermal fillers, our medical team, and your treatment options, contact us today!