A filler treatment is a cosmetic dermatological procedure used to minimize the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles and eliminates signs of aging. There are several types of dermal fillers. Healthcare providers usually inject dermal fillers around your eyes, mouth, and nose. It is an excellent treatment option for those who want a youthful look but are unwilling to undergo invasive treatments such as a traditional facelift. It works by filling up areas of the face prone to sagging to bring back its natural volume and fullness. Although it does not get permanent results, it offers a more straightforward, safer, and cheaper way to look younger.
How the Procedure Works
A dermal filler raises or puffs up particular areas of the face. It is most commonly used in regions that succumb to sagging skin, creating a hollow look. The specific manner in which the procedure works depends on the type of fillers being used. Existing options include:
Hyaluronic acid – The most commonly used type of dermal filler, a hyaluronic acid filler works by drawing fluid to the specified part of the face that needs a lift. This substance is used in popular filler brands such as Juvederm, Captique, and Restylane; the effects of these fillers typically last around nine months to 1 year.
Fat graft – A fat graft, also known as autologous fat, refers to fat cells taken from another part of the patient’s body and injected into the recipient site. Since the injected filler is made of actual human fat, the effects of this type of treatment can last for years.
Polymer – Filler brands like Sculptra use an artificial and biodegradable polymer substance. It is another durable option, with effects lasting up to two years.
Calcium hydroxylapatite – This is the primary substance used in another famous filler brand Radiesse, which can keep wrinkles and skin aging at bay for up to 12 months.
Bovine collagen – Fillers like Zyderm and Zyplast use bovine collagen. However, due to this substance’s nature, the patient must undergo an allergy test at least four weeks before the treatment to ensure that they will not have any adverse reactions to the injectable filler.
Microscopic plastic beads – Because bovine collagen treatment does not offer permanent results, it is often mixed with tiny dots that are made of polymethyl methacrylate or PMMA that stay under the skin for good even when the collagen melts away; they, therefore, effectively extend the effects of the treatment to at least five years.
A dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon can carry out a filler treatment. Regardless of which material is used as the filling agent, a more significant part of the process is generally the same. The patient first receives local anesthesia to numb the facial area. Once the anesthesia has settled in, the surgeon or dermatologist injects the filler into the predetermined location, just under the skin. For fat grafts, however, the fat used as the filling agent is first harvested from another body part.
Each procedure will take approximately 15 minutes. However, succeeding sessions may be necessary depending on the severity of the condition and the size of the treatment area. If so, each session is spaced at least two weeks apart.
Benefits and Expected Results
A dermal filler treatment is most beneficial for patients who have the following signs of skin aging:
- Wrinkles
- Fine lines
- Pitted scars
- Furrowed skin
On the other hand, filler treatment is unsafe for those taking blood-thinning medication, including aspirin, vitamin E, or any NSAID. It is also not recommendable for those with herpes simplex or herpes zoster.
The fillers are expected to smooth out surface flaws on facial skin temporarily. The time the results are expected to last may differ depending on the specific product used. Many people see the results of dermal fillers right away. Because it is a non-surgical treatment, recovery time is minimal.
Since the fillers are only injected into the skin, the treatment does not require a long recovery and downtime. The procedure usually takes less than an hour, and you can have them right in your healthcare provider’s office. Patients can safely return to their routine after the procedure if they avoid strenuous activities and excessive sun exposure. Meanwhile, typical post-procedure symptoms are expected to disappear after a few days.
Depending on the type of dermal filler, results may last for months or even years. Some dermal fillers work for more than two years. They are also typically less expensive than elective surgical procedures.
Possible Risks and Complications
Filler treatment sessions may cause some symptoms right after each procedure. The following symptoms are typical and temporary, typically lasting up to 3 days after the procedure:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain
- Itching
If symptoms do not go away after three days or worsen, it is best to return to the dermatologist or surgeon who performed the procedure. Prolonged symptoms may be signs of possible complications linked to dermal fillers, which include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Bruising
- Allergic reactions, the most common of which include rashes, hives, and swelling
- Flu-like symptoms
- Granulomas or nodules, which are lumps that develop under the skin in the treatment area
Some severe and potentially life-threatening complications have been reported, but these are rare.
- Anaphylactic shock
- Sepsis
- Necrosis, or the breaking down of the skin
- A blood clot causes blindness in the retinal artery
- Abscess
Where to have Dermal Fillers?
Due to many dermatological clinics and doctors offering dermal fillers, patients are advised to take extra care in choosing a doctor. There is a risk that the fillers used are not included in those approved by the U.S. FDA, and this exposes the patient to the possibility of uncontrolled adverse reactions. Consult with your Doctor about the risks and benefits of dermal filler treatment and the type of dermal fillers that best suit you. It is always wise and safe to have it with trusted experts. Check out Ascent Aesthetics for more information. Hurry and Book your appointments now!
