Overview
An injectable dermal filler is a nonsurgical procedure that adds volume beneath the skin to generate a smoother, younger appearance. When combined with other anti-aging treatments, such as BOTOX, we provide patients some of the benefits of a surgical face lift without the invasive nature and recovery time. Visit our Scottsdale, AZ office for a complete consultation in ridding yourself of sagging skin, wrinkles and fine lines.
Injectable Fillers Reviews
Types of Dermal Fillers
The market for injectable fillers has exploded over the last decade; offering numerous options and brands for patients to consider.
Fat Transfer
A fat transfer is a process that takes fat from one body part and directly transfers it to an area of the face with lost volume. This type of filler offers excellent results, and is a longer lasting option as the body incorporates the fat cells into the new area.
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that is made up of amino-acids. It can be derived from the human body or animals (known as bovine collagen). Collagen feels very natural when injected. It is commonly used in the lips for lip augmentation.
Calcium Hydroxyapatite
Calcium hydroxyapatite is a substance found naturally in human bones. It is a mineral-like compound and one of the heavier derma fillers. This particular filler treatment is generally used for deep crevices and creases.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that exists in the human body. It can be found in connective and skin tissue and cartilage. It is extracted, reformulated and then offered as a derma filler. It is a popular choice because of its compatibility.
Polylactic Acid
Polylactic acid is a synthetic substance created and used as a filler. This particular substance works differently than the other fillers because, once injected, it stimulates collagen production. Therefore, results will not be immediate but will appear gradually over time.
PMMA
The primary semi-permanent filler on the market today is polymethylmethacrylate fillers (PMMA). This filler contains a low concentration of microspheres suspended in a larger amount of purified collagen gel. PMMA is more solid and heavier than most other fillers. It is used for deep wrinkles, deep contours and crevices, and is sometimes used as a permanent implant during reconstructive surgery.
During/After the Procedure
Prior to treatment, the practitioner will assess various aspects of the face and make marks directly on the skin to note where the injection sites will be. The face will be cleansed and a local anesthetic will be applied to help numb the top layer of skin. Using a syringe with a fine needle, the filler will be injected into the marked areas until the desired fullness has been achieved. Most patients are pleased with their results. While this will vary by filler product, most will produce results lasting from 3 months to a full year.
Injectable Filler FAQs
Are Fillers Safe?
All injectable fillers on the market today are FDA-approved and are safe to use. It is important to discuss the differences between each filler treatment to decide which is the best choice for your specific situation.
Long-Lasting Results?
The results of each injectable filler treatment will vary. On average, most will last between 3 months and a full year. Restylane, Juvederm and Perlane are among some of the most common fillers and usually last 6 months or longer. Fat injections will last the shortest amount of time because a portion will reabsorb into the body within several months.
Fillers vs. BOTOX?
Injectable fillers help to decrease wrinkles by adding volume to smooth the skin’s surface. BOTOX, Dysport and Xeomin offer a result that looks and acts similar, but with a different approach. These treatments use a neurotoxic agent injected into the skin to temporarily freeze overactive muscles causing wrinkles. When the muscles relax, the visible wrinkles on the outer layer of the skin relax and soften, resulting in a smoother, younger appearance.
