What are Injectable Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected under the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines, soften wrinkles, or enhance facial contours. Each year, millions of men and women opt for this popular facial rejuvenation treatment as a cost-effective way to look younger without surgery or a long recovery period.
How Can Dermal Fillers Improve My Appearance?
Although the term “dermal fillers” is often associated with smoothing out wrinkles, these fillers can do much more. Some common issues that dermal fillers can address include:
- Smoothing lines around the nose and mouth (marionette lines, smile lines, and parentheses)
- Adding volume and fullness to sunken cheeks or temples
- Reducing vertical lip lines
- Plumping and enhancing the lips
- Contouring the jawline
- Improving facial symmetry
Which Dermal Filler Do I Need?
With the numerous dermal filler products available on the market, it can be challenging to determine which option is best for you without the guidance of an experienced cosmetic surgeon. Each product is uniquely formulated to have a specific texture, density, and injection depth, which means that certain fillers work better for certain areas of concern. Your provider will determine the best product for you, but the following diagram can show where cosmetic surgeons generally apply certain products:
How Long Do Results Last?
The duration of the effects of dermal fillers depends on the product used, the treatment area, and the patient. Generally, the denser the product and the deeper it is injected, the longer it will last, but this is not always a hard and fast rule. To maintain your results, your cosmetic surgeon will adjust the amount and techniques as needed to achieve the best outcomes.
Hyaluronic acid fillers are typically the most temporary option and are often recommended for first-time filler patients. These usually last between 6 to 18 months. Injections in the lips may wear out a bit faster than those in the nasolabial folds. Some HA fillers, like VOLUMA, are formulated to last longer but are usually limited to specific areas such as the cheeks.
Synthetic fillers tend to last longer as they are not absorbed by the body. They can be a great option for the right patient, but you should be prepared for results that will stay for several years and choose an experienced, qualified provider whose aesthetic style you appreciate.
Fat injections are intended to be permanent; however, a portion of the injected fat is expected not to survive. Initially, your aesthetic surgeon may overfill the treatment area, resulting in a fuller appearance that will gradually become more natural over time.