Dermal Fillers
How Can Dermal Filler Enhance my Appearance?
While dermal fillers are casually known as “wrinkle fillers,” they can do much more than just smooth out wrinkles, although they are excellent at this too! Here are a few of the common issues dermal fillers can help address:
- Smooth out lines around the nose and mouth
- Enhance and restore volume to sunken eyes, cheeks, or temples
- Diminish vertical lip lines
- Plump and enhance the lips
- Smooth out a chin crease
- Improve symmetry among facial features
What Are Fillers Made With?
There are a variety of FDA-approved filler products that plastic surgeons use. In general, fillers are categorized by the substance they are made from.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that is found in your skin. It helps keep skin plump and hydrated. HA fillers are typically soft and gel-like. The results are temporary, lasting 6 to 12 months before the body gradually and naturally absorbs the particles. Most HA fillers are infused with lidocaine to help minimize discomfort during and after treatment. FDA-approved HA fillers include:
- Revanesse Versa
- Juvéderm
- Restylane
- Belotero
Calcium Hydroxyapatite (CaHA)
Calcium hydroxyapatite is also a naturally occurring substance found primarily in our bones. The calcium particles are white microscopic particles suspended in a smooth gel when used as a filler. The consistency of a CaHA filler is typically thicker than a hyaluronic acid filler and typically lasts longer, about 12 months for most patients. Calcium hydroxyapatite also helps stimulate natural collagen production and is typically used for deeper lines and wrinkles. This white gel is an excellent choice to reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. FDA-approved CaHA fillers include:
Radiesse®
Poly-L-lactic Acid
Poly-L-lactic acid is a biocompatible (meaning it is safe to use in the body), biodegradable synthetic substance. It has been used for many years in medical devices, such as dissolvable stitches. Poly-L-lactic acid products are technically classified as “collagen stimulators” as their main mechanism to smooth fine lines is by helping your skin rebuild natural collagen—the filler gel itself dissipates a few days after treatment. Poly-L-lactic acid is typically used to restore volume throughout the face, and results can last more than two years. FDA-approved Poly-L-lactic acid fillers include:
Sculptra®
Choosing a Provider for Filler Treatments
When selecting a plastic surgeon for injectable treatments, give your decision the same level of care and scrutiny that you would for a surgical procedure. Non-surgical filler treatment is still a medical procedure that requires substantial training, knowledge, and skill to ensure safe treatment and natural-looking results. Choose a plastic surgeon with a proven cosmetic surgery background, training, and substantial experience performing filler injections.
Which Filler Do I Need?
With so many dermal filler products on the market, it can be difficult to know which option is best for you without an experienced cosmetic surgeon’s guidance. Each product is uniquely formulated to have a certain texture, density, and injection depth, which means certain fillers work better for certain areas of concern. Dr. Ahmadi will analyze your face during your consultation to recommend the most suitable fillers.