Fillers / Injectables
Dermal fillers are a skin rejuvenation method that uses naturally-derived or synthetic material to improve the look and texture of the skin by providing a more youthful appearance. Dermal fillers work by injecting the material into the skin which plumps areas of the face and body that have lost volume. As we age, the subcutaneous fat becomes thinner which allows the muscles to work closer to the surface of the skin. The lack of volume and gravity causes the skin to sag and to develop fine lines, wrinkles and folds. This results in an aged appearance because the skin does not have the elasticity, collagen and hyaluronic acid it once had to keep the skin taut. Dermal fillers can smooth the wrinkles and folds and provide more volume. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive. Additionally, dermal fillers have little to no side effects and require minimal downtime.
How Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Work
There are several different types of dermal fillers and each can be used to correct a variety of skin concerns. Fillers have a different consistency and injection depth and each one works better in certain areas. Juvederm and Restylane are both made up of a substance known as Hyaluronic Acid which is a hydrating substance that naturally occurs in the skin. These fillers are known as Hyaluronic Acid fillers (HLA) and work by replenishing the hyaluronic acid which is lost with aging and sun exposure. Once injected, HLA attracts moisture from within the body to add volume while smoothing out lines and wrinkles just underneath the skin’s surface. Over the first few months after the injections, HLA works to stimulate the production of the body’s natural collagen so the skin becomes more resilient and elastic. Both fillers are considered temporary and will need further treatments to maintain the results. While Restylane can last up to 9 months, Juvederm can last up to a year.
- Juvederm works well for smile lines, marionette lines or the creases at the sides of the mouth and vertical lip lines. It can also be used on the forehead, around the nose and to fill-in depressed scars and/or acne scars.
- Restylane works well to fill-in wrinkled areas around the nose and mouth. It can also be used to plump up thin lips and fill-in sunken or dark regions below the eyes. Patients with recessed scars may also find resolution with this filler.
How Does Radiesse Work?
Radiesse is made up of calcium-based microspheres which are suspended in a water-based gel. This type of dermal filler can add volume and stimulate the body to produce collagen. Eventually, the body will absorb the gel and leave the collagen behind for longer lasting results. This type of filler is injected deeper into the tissue for a better lift. It can also encourage the body to produce collagen in the treated region for a year or longer. With extended use, this type of filler can promote new tissue growth. Radiesse is temporary filler but, having repeat injections before the filler has completely dispersed, may help to maintain the longevity of the product.
- Radiesse works great for anyone with moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. It can improve the appearance of scars and dimples as well as plump the lips and chin.
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