Dermal Fillers
As we age, creases, lines, and wrinkles form on our faces because of diminished collagen production, loss of subcutaneous fat under the skin, genetics, and environmental factors. Dermal fillers are injectable substances—usually either hyaluronic acid or collagen-based. Fillers can be used to plump lips, improve the appearance of scars, enhance facial contours, and smooth the appearance of lines and wrinkles. They can be used on their own for early signs of aging and shallow lines or in conjunction with surgical procedures to enhance results.
The types of substances contained in the dermal fillers can determine where on the face they are used and how long the results you receive will last. These fillers are temporary, but the effects can last anywhere from six months to almost two years before needing follow-up treatments. Your doctor can help you decide which treatments are right for you.
When you have made the choice to use a dermal fillers to soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, a doctor or a specially-trained nurse will evaluate what it is you wish to accomplish and the contours and structure of your facial features. They may mark your skin to map out your treatment. The injection site is cleansed and in some cases a numbing agent may be applied, although with most injections the pain is well-tolerated. After the injection, the doctor or nurse will massage the site to ensure proper distribution of the filler under the skin. Depending on how many injections you receive, the visits will typically last approximately fifteen minutes to an hour.
After the injections you may experience some tenderness at the injection site, mild swelling, some light bruising, redness, or the appearance of being over-filled. These usually subside within a few days and don’t require medication. Ice may be applied to help reduce swelling. There are some additional side effects that you should know about, though they are fairly uncommon. These can include infection, skin rash, itching, acne-like eruptions, bruising, bleeding, and lumps. All of these possible side effects will be discussed prior to any injections during your consultation.
One other type of dermal filler is fat injections. This is a procedure that involves removing the fat from a donor area of the patient’s own body and then injected into the areas you want filled for a smoother look. The removal is done through liposuction so it is a more complicated procedure than a prepared dermal injection. The fat cells are grafted and must survive in order to be viable. The results are often unpredictable and it is considered a minor surgical procedure.
The cost varies depending on the type of filler chosen and how many injections you will need in one sitting, but it generally ranges anywhere from $500.00 to $1,000.00, and additionally the cost of the office visit. Fat injections tend to run quite higher to do the complex nature of the procedure.
Dermal fillers are a fantastic and affordable way to soften lines and wrinkles and reduce the signs of aging. Be sure to choose a trusted doctor and ask any questions you may have about the procedure you wish to have done.
