Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. They are commonly used for cosmetic purposes, such as reducing signs of aging like fine lines and sagging skin, but can also provide non-surgical facial augmentation including lip enhancement or nose shaping.

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Types of Dermal Fillers

  • Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero)
    HA is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that retains moisture and volume. It produces natural-looking results and can be reversed using hyaluronidase.
  • Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers (Radiesse)
    CaHA mimics the mineral found in bones, is thicker than HA, and is often used for deeper wrinkles or restoring facial volume.
  • Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) (Sculptra)
    PLLA stimulates collagen production gradually over a few sessions and is typically used for larger volume loss.
  • Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) (Bellafill)
    PMMA is a semi-permanent filler containing microspheres that provide structure and support for deeper lines and scars.
  • Autologous Fat Injections
    Fat is harvested from one area of the body (e.g., abdomen or thighs) and injected into facial areas needing volume restoration.

Uses of Dermal Fillers

  • Wrinkle reduction: nasolabial folds, marionette lines, crow’s feet.
  • Facial volume restoration: cheeks, under-eye hollows, temples.
  • Lip enhancement: adds volume and definition.
  • Non-surgical rhinoplasty: contouring or smoothing bumps on the nose.
  • Jawline and chin enhancement: creating a defined jawline or correcting asymmetry.

Procedure

  1. Consultation: Discuss goals, assess areas to be treated, and determine the appropriate filler type.
  2. Injection: Filler is injected into targeted areas with a fine needle or cannula. Some fillers contain lidocaine to reduce discomfort.
  3. Post-Treatment Care: Results are often visible immediately. Swelling or bruising may occur, and full results are usually seen after a few days. Depending on the type, results last 6 months to 2 years.

Risks and Side Effects

  • Swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site.
  • Rare complications: infection, allergic reactions, or lumps.
  • Very rare: filler migration or vascular occlusion, which can block blood vessels and cause tissue damage.

Dermal fillers are minimally invasive and can provide significant aesthetic improvements with minimal downtime. It is essential to choose a licensed and experienced professional for safety and optimal results.