What is a dermal filler and How Do They Work for Facial Rejuvenation
Discover the non-surgical way to youthful-looking skin with dermal fillers. Learn what they are, how they work, types available, and potential risks and side effects in our blog. Find out what to expect during recovery and how to maintain your results. Get ready to achieve smooth and rejuvenated skin!
Article's contents
- What is a dermal filler?
- Understanding Dermal Fillers injection
- How Do Dermal Fillers Work?
- The Science Behind Dermal Fillers
- Areas Treated by Dermal Fillers
- What is a dermal filler Types
- Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers
- Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers
- Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillers
- Choosing the Right Filler
- Risks and possible side effects of Dermal Fillers
- Recovery and Results
- Conclusion
What is a dermal filler?
As we age, our skin loses collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and sagging. This is where dermal fillers come in – they are injectable substances that add volume and fullness to the face. By stimulating collagen production and attracting water molecules to the treated area, dermal fillers can smooth out wrinkles, fill in hollow areas, and enhance facial features. The best part? Dermal fillers provide a non-surgical option for facial rejuvenation with minimal downtime and few side effects.
Understanding Dermal Fillers injection
As we age, our skin loses volume and elasticity, resulting in wrinkles and hollow areas. Dermal fillers can help address these issues by adding volume and fullness to the face. These injectable substances are made from a variety of materials, including hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, collagen, and poly-L-lactic acid. The type of filler used will depend on the area being treated and the desired results. Results typically last between 6 months to 5 years, making dermal fillers a popular non-surgical option for facial rejuvenation.
How Do Dermal Fillers Work?
By temporarily filling in wrinkles and lines, dermal fillers work wonders for facial rejuvenation. These injectable drugs, FDA-approved for men and women aged 22 and above, provide quick results with minimal downtime. Dermal fillers contain materials like hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, and polymethylmethacrylate that stimulate collagen production and attract water molecules to the injected area. With over a million people opting for this treatment every year, dermal fillers are one of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedures available today.
The Science Behind Dermal Fillers
As we age, our skin loses collagen and becomes thinner, leading to wrinkles and fine lines. Dermal fillers work by filling in areas of the face where collagen has been lost or where the skin has become thinner over time. Most dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the body that helps to hydrate and plump up the skin. Dermal fillers vary in density, so they can blend seamlessly into different parts of the body or face. The injection process stimulates the production of collagen and elastin fibers, providing long-lasting results. Dermal fillers can be used to address a variety of concerns, including sunken cheeks, thin lips, wrinkles, and fine lines.
Areas Treated by Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers can be used to treat a range of areas, including the lips, cheeks, chin, under-eye hollows, and hands. They work by adding volume to these areas, filling in wrinkles and lines for a more youthful appearance. The type of dermal filler used will depend on the area being treated and the desired results. Results from dermal fillers typically last for several months to over a year, and even up to 5 years for biostimulating fillers, making them an excellent option for those looking for a non-surgical way to rejuvenate their appearance without lengthy downtime.
What is a dermal filler Types
Dermal fillers are a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment used to rejuvenate the face and minimize the signs of aging. There are different types of dermal fillers available, and each type has its unique characteristics and uses. In this section, we will discuss the different types of dermal fillers and their benefits.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are the most popular type of dermal fillers. They are a gel-like substance that is naturally found in our skin and joints, making them safe for use in most people. Some popular brands of HA fillers include Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero. They are commonly used to treat smile lines, marionette lines, and other fine lines and wrinkles. HA fillers can also be used to enhance lips, add volume to cheeks, and improve facial contours. The results of HA filler procedures are usually visible immediately, and they can last anywhere from six to eighteen months, depending on the brand and the part of your body being treated. HA dermal fillers vary in density and its ability to stretch, some fillers are better options for treating cheeks, while others are better for lips. Consult qualifying medical professional before choosing a dermal filler, as the process of filler injection is both art and a science.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers
Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers are a synthetic material that mimics the natural calcium found in our bones. Some popular brands of CaHA fillers include Radiesse and Radiance. These fillers are used to treat moderate to severe facial creases and wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines. They can also be used to add volume to the cheeks and enhance facial contours. We also like using hyperdilute solution of CaHA filler to tighten the skin of the neck, chest, hands, and above the knees. CaHA fillers can stimulate both collagen and elastic production making it a great solution for firming and tightening of thin skin on the neck. The results of CaHA fillers can last up to a year or more.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers are a synthetic material that stimulates collagen production in the skin. Sculptra is a popular brand of PLLA filler. They are commonly used to treat deep facial wrinkles, scars, and folds. Sculptra is also used for non-surgical butt lifts and to enhance volume in other parts of the body. The results of Sculptra can last up to two years. Keep in mind, the results of this product are gradual and most patients will require multiple treatments to achieve the desired look.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillers
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fillers are a synthetic material that contains microspheres that stimulate collagen production in the skin. Bellafill is a popular brand of PMMA filler. They are used to treat deep facial wrinkles, acne scars, and to enhance facial contours. The results of Bellafill can last up to five years.
Choosing the Right Filler
When choosing a dermal filler, consider the area of the face being treated, the reputation of the manufacturer, the longevity of the filler, and your individual goals and skin type. Consulting with a medical professional can help determine which filler is best for you.
Risks and possible side effects of Dermal Fillers
Discomfort. This is usually temporary and can be managed with ice or over-the-counter pain relievers. However, if the discomfort persists, you should contact your injector or board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to ensure there are no underlying issues.
Bleeding. This is typically mild and stops on its own, but in rare cases, it may require medical attention. Patients should avoid taking blood-thinning medications before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.
Inflammation and Infections: There is a risk of infection with any injection procedure, including dermal filler procedures. Patients should choose a qualified aesthetic injector or cosmetic surgeon who uses sterile techniques and high-quality products to minimize this risk. Also avoiding touching injected area, applying makeup, exercising, going to sauna or public pool, can help to protect freshly injected skin from bacterial infection.
Lumpiness or bumps at the injection site: While rare, lumps or bumps may occur at the injection site after dermal filler procedures. This is typically due to uneven distribution of the filler or the body’s reaction to the filler. Some feeling of bumpiness is expected after dermal filler injections, and will resolve without any treatment within a few days after injection. However, if you are experiencing persistent bump, or pain please consult your injector. Your board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon can address these concerns and provide treatment options.
Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions to dermal fillers are rare but can occur. Symptoms may include swelling, itching, and difficulty breathing. Patients with a history of allergies should discuss their options with a medical professional before getting dermal filler procedures.
Numbness: Numbness or loss of sensation at the injection site may occur after dermal filler procedures. This is usually temporary and resolves on its own, but in rare cases, it may persist or become permanent. If the sensation of numbness did not resolve after a few days, this might be a sign of a serious reaction. Patients should discuss the possibility of numbness with their medical professional before getting dermal filler procedures.
Recovery and Results
After dermal filler treatment, patients can expect to see almost immediate results that can last for several months to a year. Recovery time is generally minimal, with most patients able to return to normal activities immediately. To ensure optimal results, it’s essential to follow proper aftercare instructions, such as avoiding certain medications and rigorous exercise. Follow-up appointments with the provider may also be necessary to maintain the desired level of rejuvenation. It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that individual results may vary based on factors such as age, skin type, and the type of filler used.
Conclusion
Dermal fillers are a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment that offers a safe and effective solution to aging skin. They work by adding volume, smoothing wrinkles and fine lines, and improving skin texture. Unlike invasive procedures like plastic surgery or liposuction, dermal fillers have a low risk of complications and minimal downtime. However, some common side effects like bruising, redness, and lumpiness can occur at the injection site. It’s essential to choose an experienced doctor or board-certified dermatologist who uses high-quality products and sterile techniques to minimize these risks. While severe side effects like blindness, HIV, or death of skin cells are rare, it’s essential to disclose any medical conditions or medications before the procedure to prevent adverse reactions. With proper care and maintenance, dermal fillers can provide long-lasting results that enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence. If you’re interested in learning more about dermal fillers or scheduling a consultation, contact Desert Bloom Skincare today and start your journey to skin rejuvenation.