Dermal Filler: The Basics

 
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WHAT ARE DERMAL FILLERS?

Dermal fillers used in the aesthetic industry are made of the following: Hyaluronic Acid (HA), Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) or Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). Of these, the most commonly used filler is Hyaluronic Acid. Since HA fillers are by far the most common, we will be focusing on them in this blog.

Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring substance found in our body. It has the ability to hold nearly 1,000 times it’s weight in water, which helps keep the skin plump and hydrated. Roughly 50% of the HA in our body is found in the skin. Unfortunately as we age, the ability for our bodies to make HA decreases.

HA fillers are gel-like substances which can be injected into the face to restore volume and reduce wrinkles. They can be dissolved (or reversed) using a product called hylauronidase.

 

NATURAL RESULTS

The #1 concern from patients is that they don’t want to look “funny” after having dermal fillers. We have all seen people in the community or on television with “chipmunk cheeks”, “pillow faces”, “Maleficent cheekbones” and “duck lips”. Too much of a good thing can sometimes be bad and unfortunately there is an epidemic of overfilled faces. It is important to research your injector and listen to their advice regarding treatment. When filler is performed properly, you should look refreshed and not overdone.

Which filler is the best?

Treatments are highly customizable. Therefore, there isn’t the “perfect” filler for every face. After taking a thorough medical history and discussing your goals, you and your aesthetic provider can decide on which one would be best.

What type of filler do i offer?

Currently, we offer a range of filler options at SkinSpirit from both the Allergan and Galderma portfolios. These fillers include Juvederm Voluma, Juvederm Volbella, Juvederm Vollure, Juvederm Ultra, Juvederm Ultra Plus, Restylane-L, Restylane Lyft, Restylane Refyne, Restylane Defyne, and Sculptra.

What areas can you use filler?

Dermal filler has been used by injectors all over the face and body. Seriously, ALL OVER THE BODY! However, the most common areas injected are temples, cheeks, tear troughs, jawline, chin, lips, nasolabial folds and marionette lines.

how much filler will i need?

One syringe (1 cc) of filler is approximately 1/5 of a teaspoon. If you bake or cook at all, you know how small this amount is. Starting in our mid 30’s, we lose about 1 cc of volume in the facial area per year! Depending on the amount of enhancement or correction that you want or need, you can use anywhere between 1-6 syringes of filler.

what to expect after filler treatment

Swelling, bruising, temporary redness and numbness, and palpable lumps or hard areas at the injection sites are all normal after dermal filler. Swelling and bruising varies patient-to-patient. Prior to treatment, it is advisable to avoid NSAIDs and alcohol in order to minimize bruising. If you bruise easily, start taking Arnica or Bromelain supplements about 3 days before your appointment. Please contact your injector for a list of do’s and don’ts as recommendations can vary. It is important to note that if you are experiencing any symptoms after dermal filler which you are not entirely sure of, contact your provider!

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