Dermal Filler
The Benefits
Dermal fillers are primarily used to plump thin lips, enhance contours, soften facial creases and wrinkles, improve the appearance of recessed scars, restore loss of volume, and reconstruct contour deformities in the face.
Most Common Uses
- Nasolabial Folds
- Cheeks
- Under Eyes
- Jawline
- Lips
- Marionette Lines
- Temples
- Hands
- Neck
What to Expect Before, During and After Treatment
In order to reduce the risk of bruising, I suggest a two-week abstinence from alcohol, aspirin products (unless Dr. prescribed), and Omega-3 supplements (such as fish oil). I recommend no dental work for two weeks before treatment and no vaccinations for 2-4 weeks before and after treatment. During your appointment, a topical numbing medication will be applied to the injection areas to ease discomfort. Once you are numb, I will inject the dermal filler using a small needle. Most dermal fillers contain lidocaine, which further numbs the area for your comfort. The side effects of filler treatment are minimal, but there is always a possibility of bruising, swelling and tenderness at the injection site. This is a temporary and completely normal side effect, and it will resolve after treatment. The application of ice packs will help to ease the discomfort and swelling immediately following your treatment. Filler can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years; however, the longevity of facial filler depends on several factors including the type of filler used, the area injected, current medications, patient metabolism, and lifestyle habits.
Aftercare
- No exercise or vigorous activity for 2-3 days after treatment, or whenever the swelling fully subsides
- No massaging the treatment area for 3 days after treatment
- Avoid airplane travel for 2 weeks after your treatment
- Sleep propped up on several pillows for 2-3 nights
Is It for You?
We start losing facial collagen/volume in our mid-twenties, so we often see patients beginning to slowly replace their lost volume with filler around this time. There is no “correct” time to start getting filler, however the younger you start, the more natural and subtle the results can be.
The Science
Dermal fillers use hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in the body, to help diminish facial lines and restore volume loss and fullness in the face. As we age, our face naturally loses volume which can be exacerbated by sun exposure, genetics, weight loss and lifestyle habits.