Dermal Fillers: What You Need to Know

Dermal fillers are becoming increasingly popular as more people become aware of their numerous benefits.

According to the Aesthetic Society 2020-2021 statistics report, dermal fillers were among plastic surgeons’ top non-surgical procedures.

Over 1.85 million people had dermal filler treatments done.

This number will continue rising as people benefit from the anti-aging effects dermal fillers can give.

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What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable substances commonly used to make wrinkles, fine lines, and other aging signs less visible.

They add volume and hydration to the skin, making your lips look fuller and improving the overall contour of your face.

In addition, you can use dermal fillers to lessen the appearance of scars or fill out hollow or sunken areas of the face, such as the cheeks or temples.

The most common dermal fillers are composed of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic is a naturally occurring substance found in the human skin.

Types of Dermal Fillers

Many different dermal fillers are available, each with unique benefits. These include:-

• Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most commonly used type of dermal filler. They are composed of a naturally-occurring substance in the body that helps to maintain skin elasticity and volume. Some of the most popular brands are Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero.
• Collagen Fillers: Most individuals use collagen fillers to reduce the fine lines and wrinkles that come with age. They are made of a protein in the body and are injected into the skin to restore a youthful appearance.
• Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers: Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers are a newer type of dermal filler. They are composed of a mineral found in the bones and teeth and work to help boost collagen production and give the skin a firmer and more hydrated appearance.
• Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers: Poly-L-Lactic acid fillers are the most long-lasting type of dermal filler. They are made up of synthetic material and are often used to fill in deep wrinkles. They can last up to two years.
• Autologous Fat Fillers: Fills deep wrinkles and skin depressions and can last up to five years. They are composed of fat taken from an individual’s body.

What Happens Before, During, and After the Procedure

Here is a quick rundown of what happens before, during, and after a dermal filler procedure:

Before the Procedure:

• You will have a consultation with a healthcare provider, such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon, to discuss your desired results and any medical conditions you may have.
• To reduce the risk of bleeding or bruising, your provider may instruct you to quit taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the procedure.
• Your provider may cleanse your skin and apply a local anesthetic to the treatment area to reduce discomfort and pain during the injection.

During the Procedure:

• The provider will inject the dermal filler into the treatment area using a fine needle or cannula.
• Depending on the treated area and the type of filler used, the procedure may take 30 minutes to an hour.

After the Procedure:

• You might have some swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site, which should resolve within a few days.
• You should avoid strenuous activity and extreme heat or cold exposure for a few days after the procedure.
• Your provider may advise you to avoid massaging or rubbing the treatment area for a period to allow the filler to settle correctly.
• Your provider will discuss post-treatment care instructions and schedule follow-up appointments as needed.

To get the best outcomes from your dermal filler procedure, adhere to your healthcare provider’s instructions.

If you have any concerns or questions, discuss them with your provider.

Benefits of Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers offer a safe, quick and effective way to restore volume and shape to the face.

They treat many areas of the face, providing immediate and long-term results that improve the individual’s overall appearance.

The following are some benefits of dermal fillers:

• Non-surgical: They are a non-surgical option for improving the appearance of the skin.
• Quick treatment: The procedures usually take 30 minutes to an hour.
• Natural-looking results: they can produce natural-looking results that can help to restore a youthful appearance to the face.
• Customizable: The amount and type of filler used can be customized to achieve the desired results.
• Immediate results: The effects are typically quick, with full results visible within a few days.
• Long-lasting: Dermal filler results are long-lasting depending on the type of filler utilized and the individual’s skin; they can last several months to a year.
• Minimal downtime: There is usually minimal downtime following a dermal filler procedure, with most people able to return to their normal activities immediately after treatment.
• Safe: have been extensively tested and are safe when administered by a qualified healthcare provider.
• Versatile: They can treat a variety of concerns, including wrinkles, hollow cheeks, and thin lips.
• Cost-effective: They are a cost-effective option for improving the appearance of the skin compared to other treatments such as surgery.

Risks and Complications of Dermal Fillers

When administered by a qualified and knowledgeable healthcare provider, dermal fillers are safe.

However, as with any medical procedure, fillers have risks and complications.

Some common risks and complications of dermal fillers include:

• Bruising: can cause bruising at the injection site, which may take a few days to resolve.
• Swelling: Swelling is another common side effect. It usually subsides within a few days.
• Infection: There is a risk of infection with any injection, although this is rare. Your providers can minimize the risk by using sterile techniques and adequately caring for the injection site.
• Allergic reactions: A few individuals may be allergic to the dermal fillers’ ingredients. Allergic reactions are rare, but your provider can treat them using medications if they occur.
• Nodules or bumps: In some cases, they can cause bumps or nodules to form under the skin. These can usually be treated with medications or by dissolving the filler.
• Asymmetry: Dermal fillers may produce uneven results, causing asymmetry in the treated area.
• Overcorrection or under-correction: Dermal fillers may produce too subtle or too dramatic results. Your provider can correct them with additional treatments or by dissolving the filler.
• Reactivation of herpes simplex: In rare cases, fillers may reactivate herpes simplex infections, causing outbreaks of cold sores.

Make sure to discuss all potential risks and complications with a healthcare provider before undergoing any procedure with dermal fillers.

How Long Does It Take To Recover?

The recovery time after getting dermal fillers varies depending on the following:

• Type of filler used
• Treatment area
• Individual needs and goals

Most people can return to normal activities immediately after the procedure.

However, there may be some mild swelling, redness, and bruising at the injection site.

To minimize swelling and bruising, your healthcare provider may recommend avoiding strenuous activities for about 24 hours after your procedure. It includes doing exercise.

It is also necessary to avoid touching, rubbing, or massaging the treated area. Ensure to keep it clean and dry.

If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about recovery, contact your healthcare provider for further instructions.

How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?

The duration of dermal fillers varies depending on the type of filler used and your treatment area.

Some dermal fillers provide more temporary results, while others offer longer-lasting results.

Here is a general overview of the duration of some common types of dermal fillers:

• Hyaluronic acid fillers (such as Juvederm, Belotero, and Restylane): last six months to 1 year.
• Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers (such as Radiesse) typically last 1 to 2 years.
• Poly-L-lactic acid fillers (such as Sculptra) commonly last about two years.
• Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fillers (such as Bellafill): These fillers are designed to provide longer-lasting results and may last for several years.

Note that: the duration can vary from one individual to another and may depend on several factors, such as the individual’s age, skin type, and lifestyle.

To maintain desired results, we recommend that you have follow-up treatments.

Discuss the expected duration of dermal fillers with a healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.

They will be able to provide more specific information about how long your filler should last.

Dermal Fillers vs. Botox Which One is Better?

Dermal fillers and Botox injections are both popular treatments. You can use any of them to improve how your skin appears.

They do, however, work differently and address different concerns.

Dermal fillers are injectables that smooth out wrinkles and folds in the skin while adding volume.

In addition, they also plump up thin lips, enhance shallow contours, soften facial creases, and improve the appearance of recessed scars.

Hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) make dermal fillers.

Botox, on the other hand, is a type of neurotoxin. It works by paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles for some time.

Providers use botulinum toxin type A to treat wrinkles around the eyes, on the forehead, and between the brows.

About which option is better, there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer.

The treatment you choose will depend on your concerns and goals.

Once you discuss with a healthcare provider concerning your needs and goals, they will be able to recommend the most appropriate treatment for you.