Dermal fillers, also known as soft tissue fillers, are injectable treatments used in cosmetic procedures to add volume and fullness to areas of the face. They can be used to plump lips, enhance cheeks, fill under eye hollows, soften facial wrinkles and folds, and rejuvenate facial contours. Dermal fillers provide a minimally invasive approach to facial rejuvenation and their effects can last from 6 months up to 2 years depending on the product used.
How do dermal fillers work?
Dermal fillers are injectable gel-based products containing hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the body. Once injected into the skin, the hyaluronic acid in the gel attracts and binds to water molecules to add volume. The gel is eventually broken down and absorbed by the body over time, so touch-up treatments are needed to maintain results.
What areas can be treated with dermal fillers?
Some common areas dermal fillers are used for include:
Lips – For enhanced lip shape, volume and definition. Help smooth out vertical lip lines.
Cheeks – To lift and restore lost volume creating more youthful cheek contours. Help soften nasolabial folds.
Under eyes – To fill hollows and reduce appearance of dark circles.
Jawline – To define and sharpen the jawline.
Chin – To create better overall facial balance and proportions.
Temples – To replace lost fat and volume for a more youthful appearance.
Hands – To reduce the visibility of veins and tendons on the back of hands.
Décolletage – To smooth and improve skin texture and crepiness.
What are the advantages of dermal fillers?
Some benefits of using dermal fillers for facial rejuvenation include:
Non-surgical procedure with minimal downtime and quick recovery.
Long lasting but not permanent results. Effects can last 6 months to 2 years.
Natural looking results when used correctly and appropriately.
Can be combined with other non-surgical treatments like Botox for enhanced rejuvenation.
Do not require general anesthesia or extensive surgery.
Require little to no recovery period compared to surgery.
Allows gradual improvements with successive treatments over time.
Has high levels of patient satisfaction according to clinical studies.
Approved dermal fillers have good safety profiles with relatively low risk of complications.
What are the risks and potential side effects?
As with any cosmetic procedure, there are some risks and potential side effects to consider:
Swelling, redness, bruising at injection sites – Generally resolves within a week.
Sensitivity and tenderness – Usually subsides within a few days.
Lumps and bumps under the skin – Can occur if improperly injected but dissolvable fillers can be corrected.
Allergic reactions – Uncommon for major reactions but slight redness or rash may occur.
Infection – Rare but possible if not properly sterilized.
Asymmetry – Uneven or unbalanced effects may occur if injected poorly.
Migration – Very small risk of filler moving from original injection site.
Skin discoloration – Slight bluish tinge may temporarily appear under eyes.
Proper technique by an experienced cosmetic injector minimizes these risks and side effects. Avoid unqualified providers offering cut-rate deals for injections.
What is the ideal candidate for dermal fillers?
Good candidates for dermal fillers include:
Individuals in overall good health without serious medical conditions.
Non-smokers or smokers willing to quit smoking for specified period before and after treatment.
People with noticeable signs of facial aging such as wrinkles, folds, sagging skin and volume loss.
Those looking for subtle enhancements and gradual rejuvenation over time.
People with realistic expectations for dermal fillers results.
It is recommended to avoid dermal fillers if pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to become pregnant. Certain skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema near injection sites should be avoided. Individuals prone to keloid scarring are not good candidates.
How should I prepare for my dermal filler appointment?
To prepare for optimal treatment and results:
Discontinue blood thinning medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, if cleared by your doctor.
Avoid alcohol for minimum 24-48 hours before your appointment.
Do not wear makeup on day of treatment.
Arrive with clean face washed and well hydrated.
Discuss complete medical history with your provider before injections.
Have realistic expectations and discuss desired results with injector.
Topical numbing cream can be applied before injection to maximize comfort.
What is the treatment process like?
The dermal filler procedure involves these steps:
The treatment area is cleaned and prepared. Topical anesthetic applied if desired.
The injector will map out planned injection sites and areas for enhancement.
The filler gel is carefully injected in small amounts into the target locations using a very fine needle.
The provider will massage area to evenly distribute filler and smooth contours.
Additional touch up injections may be given to achieve optimal results.
Ice packs and arnica creams help minimize temporary swelling, redness and tenderness.
Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours post-treatment.
Follow your provider’s post-care instructions for best results.
Initial swelling and side effects generally resolve within 3-7 days.
How long do results last?
Most dermal fillers on average last 6-18 months, some up to 2 years. However results duration depends on:
Filler product and formula – Some have longer lasting hyaluronic acid.
Treatment area – Areas of less facial movement may retain fillers longer.
Amount of filler injected – More material injected increases longevity.
Individual factors like age, skin condition, bone structure.
Lifestyle factors – Health, sun exposure, smoking affect durability.
Follow up maintenance appointments every 6-12 months are recommended to sustain filler enhancements.
What products are commonly used as dermal fillers?
There are many FDA-approved hyaluronic acid based soft tissue filler products, including:
Juvederm Voluma – Adds lift and volume to cheeks. Provides up to 2 years of improvement.
Juvederm Vollure – Smooths lines around nose and mouth up to 18 months.
Juvederm Volbella – Enhances lips and fills vertical lip lines for up to 12 months.
Restylane-L – Lifts cheeks and smooths under eye hollows for up to 18 months.
Restylane Lyft – Plumps cheeks and corrects midface contour for up to 18 months.
Restylane Refyne – Treats laugh lines around mouth and lips. Lasts up to 12 months.
Restylane Defyne – Adds fullness to lips and laugh lines for up to 12 months.
Sculptra Aesthetic – Stimulates collagen production for gradual improvements.
Non-hyaluronic acid fillers:
Radiesse – Stimulates collagen and provides longer lasting results up to 18 months. Made of calcium hydroxylapatite.
Bellafill – Provides volume to treated areas for improvement lasting 5 years or longer. Contains collagen and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres.
When seeking dermal fillers, ensure you select an appropriately qualified cosmetic provider like a plastic surgeon or dermatologist. Confirm the specific filler product being used is FDA-approved to ensure highest quality and safety standards. Carefully review before and after photos of the provider’s previous work with fillers.
What is the cost of dermal fillers?
The average cost of dermal fillers ranges from $500 – $700 per syringe. However, pricing depends on factors like:
Geographic location – Urban areas are generally higher.
Provider experience level – Board certified specialists often charge more.
Extent of treatment areas – Multiple areas require more syringes and cost.
Type of filler used – Some brands are more expensive.
Many practices offer package deals for multiple syringes at discounted rates. Rewards programs and membership plans can offer savings on future filler treatments to maintain results. If cost is a concern, discuss budget and options with your chosen injector.
What kind of results can I expect from fillers?
Used properly, FDA-approved dermal fillers can provide very natural looking results, including:
Fuller, plumper lips with reduced lines around mouth.
A lifted, heart shaped face contour with restored volume.
Smoother, softer nasolabial folds and wrinkles.
More defined cheekbones and midface structure.
Hollows filled under eyes for fresher, brighter look.
More balance and symmetry to facial features.
An overall more youthful and rejuvenated facial appearance.
Exact results depend on individual factors like age, bone structure, skin quality, amount of correction needed and injections skill. Have realistic outcome expectations after discussing goals thoroughly with your chosen qualified injector.
Can fillers be combined with other treatments?
Yes, dermal fillers complement other popular non-surgical procedures very well, including:
Botox – Relaxes lines and wrinkles while fillers restore lost volume.
Microneedling – Induces collagen for skin tightening and tone.
Chemical peels – Resurfaces skin for brightness and smoothness.
Laser skin resurfacing – Improves overall skin quality and texture.
PRP injections – Uses platelet rich plasma extracted from your blood to rejuvenate skin.
Many cosmetic practices offer combined filler and Botox packages to maximize facial rejuvenation and anti-aging benefits from these two leading treatments. Discuss customized options with your provider.
How to maintain and extend filler results?
To help maintain enhancements and extend longevity of dermal fillers consider these tips:
Follow your provider’s post-care instructions carefully.
Massage treated areas for 5 minutes daily for 2 weeks.
Use daily broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect from UV damage.
Stay well hydrated and eat a balanced, nutritious diet.
Avoid extreme heat like saunas, hot tubs and steam rooms for 2 weeks.
Refrain from strenuous exercise, rubbing or massaging treated areas excessively.
Stop smoking and minimize alcohol consumption.
Return for follow up and touch up injections as suggested.
Schedule appointments before fillers completely dissipate for optimal maintenance.
Takeaway on dermal fillers:
When performed by an experienced and qualified cosmetic provider using approved products, dermal fillers present a well tolerated and effective means for restoring a more youthful facial appearance with minimal downtime. Results can last from 6 months up to 2 years with proper technique and maintenance treatments.
Thoroughly research your chosen injector, follow pre and post treatment guidelines, and set realistic expectations for natural looking outcomes. Combining fillers with other leading procedures like Botox, microneedling or laser skin resurfacing can produce optimal anti-aging and facial rejuvenating benefits.
Recent Studies on Safety and Efficacy of Dermal Fillers
Numerous clinical studies and peer-reviewed research demonstrate the safety and efficacy of FDA-approved dermal filler products for aesthetic use:
A 2021 clinical trial published in Aesthetic Surgery Journal evaluated safety data from 17 randomized control trials representing over 2,800 patients. Results showed facial soft tissue fillers have favorable safety profiles with mostly transient side effects like swelling, bruising, pain. Serious adverse events were very rare. (1)
A 2020 double-blind, randomized control trial in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery followed 158 participants for up to 18 months after injection with Juvéderm Voluma dermal filler in cheeks. At least 70% maintained at least 1 point improvement on facial volume loss grading scales, supporting its lasting effective for cheek enhancement and midface rejuvenation. (2)
A review in 2020 in Journal of Drugs in Dermatology examined data from 13 clinical studies of various Juvederm fillers like Volbella and Vollure for treating facial wrinkles and folds. Across all studies, the most common adverse reactions were temporary injection site responses like swelling, bruising, pain, redness. Most resolved within 14 days indicating highly tolerable safety profiles. (3)
Clinical research published in 2019 in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology followed 50 participants who received Radiesse injections for hands rejuvenation. Significant improvements were seen in the appearance of veins, tendons and overall age-related characteristics that persisted through the 12 month study follow-up, highlighting Radiesse’s safe and effective use for treating aged hands. (4)
A systematic review and meta-analysis in Dermatologic Surgery in 2018 analyzed 35 clinical studies representing thousands of patients who had Juvéderm hyaluronic acid fillers. Results found low incidence of serious complications and high satisfaction rates further substantiating their safety, efficacy and durability for facial rejuvenation. (5)
These and numerous other rigorous clinical studies provide a growing body of evidence for dermal fillers as a reliable option for facial enhancement and treating signs of aging when performed properly. Always ensure injectables are administered by a qualified and licensed provider.
Credentialing of Injectors for Dermal Fillers
When seeking dermal filler injections, it is important to choose a properly credentialed and experienced injector to ensure optimal safety and results. There are certain qualifications and designations to look for:
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon – Holds certification from American Board of Plastic Surgery and has extensive surgical training. Represents highest level of qualifications for injectables.
Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon – Specialized certification in plastic surgery of face, head and neck. Extensively trained and qualified for facial fillers.
Board Certified Dermatologist – Certified by American Board of Dermatology. Well trained in skin rejuvenation procedures like dermal fillers.
NP (Nurse Practitioner) or PA (Physician Assistant) – When working under board certified supervising doctor can legally provide injections. Ask about their experience and training.
Licensed Estheticians or RNs – May offer dermal fillers depending on state regulations. Ensure proper supervision and injection credentials.
Many plastic surgeons and dermatology clinics offer injectable services. Verify current board certifications and that the operating facility is accredited. Carefully review online reputation and before/after filler photos to evaluate skill and aesthetic sensibility. Do not compromise on provider qualifications for discount deals.
Top Brands and Options in Dermal Fillers
The dermal filler market has rapidly expanded in response to rising demand for facial rejuvenation treatments. While once limited to just one or two products, patients now have an abundance of brand options. Some of the top manufacturer brands include:
Allergan – The makers of Botox also produce several leading hyaluronic acid fillers under the Juvéderm collection:
Voluma – Adds lift and restores volume in cheeks up to 2 years.
Vollure – Smooths lines and wrinkles around the nose and mouth up to 18 months.
Volbella – Plumps and enhances lips while filling vertical lip lines for up to 12 months.
Galderma – This pharmaceutical company manufactures the popular Restylane family of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers:
Restylane Refyne – Designed for laugh lines and to plump lips for up to 12 months.
Restylane Defyne – Used for laugh lines and lips providing flexible support for up to 12 months.
Restylane Lyft – Adds fullness and lift to cheeks and midface for up to 18 months.
Restylane – Smooths under eye hollows and frown lines between brows for up to 18 months.
Merz Aesthetics – This company produces the leading longer lasting dermal fillers Radiesse and Belotero:
Radiesse – Stimulates collagen and provides longer lasting results up to 18 months. Made of calcium hydroxylapatite.
Belotero – Integrates smoothly into skin and is specially formulated for delicate areas around eyes and mouth. Provides results lasting up to 18 months.
Suneva Medical – Manufactures Bellafill the only FDA-approved dermal filler proven to provide improvement lasting 5 years or more. Uniquely contains collagen along with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres that stimulate natural collagen growth.
These leading brands offer a wide selection of options to suit different cosmetic facial needs and desired longevity of results. Always consult an appropriately qualified and licensed cosmetic provider when considering injectable dermal fillers. Carefully review the specific product details and ingredients they recommend for your particular concerns and treatment goals.
Combination Treatments with Dermal Fillers
While dermal fillers effectively restore lost facial volume and fullness, combining fillers with other leading procedures can provide enhanced and longer lasting overall rejuvenation. Popular combination treatments include:
Botox + Fillers – Using neurotoxin Botox to relax wrinkles and dermal filler to restore facial volume is one of the most popular and effective anti-aging combinations. Botox softens fine lines while fillers plump up wrinkles, folds and hollows for comprehensive facial renewal.
Microneedling + PRP + Fillers – Microneedling creates tiny channels in skin allowing better absorption of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and hyaluronic acid fillers. The combination rejuvenates skin tone and texture while enhancing filler results.
Laser Skin Resurfacing + Fillers – Lasers improve overall skin quality by smoothing fine lines, reducing pigmentation and tightening skin. Combined with fillers the result is a global facial renewal with brighter, firmer and more youthful appearance.
Fillers + Face Lifting – Dermal fillers augment and provide lift to sagging facial features. Neurotoxins relax muscles that cause wrinkles. Used together before a surgical facelift, they provide rejuvenation and reduce complications from extensive surgery.
Discuss your particular concerns with a board certified cosmetic provider to develop a customized filler combination plan for complete facial rejuvenation based on your needs, lifestyle and budget preferences. Take advantage of package specials many practices offer when combining leading procedures.
Dermal Filler Injections – Step by Step Process
The process of receiving dermal filler injections involves a series of steps before, during and after the procedure for optimal results. Here is an overview of what to expect:
Before Treatment
Discontinue certain medications like blood thinners if approved by your doctor to minimize bruising.
Avoid alcohol consumption minimum 24 – 48 hours prior to the procedure.
Arrive to appointment with clean washed face; avoid wearing makeup.
Numbing cream may be applied 30 minutes before injections if desired.
Review full medical history with the provider.
During Injections
The treatment areas are cleaned and prepared.
The injector maps out planned injection sites and techniques.
Fillers are precisely injected in small amounts using an ultra fine needle into target facial locations.
Pressure and gentle massaging help smooth and distribute filler evenly.
Additional touch up injections are given until optimal results are achieved.
After Treatment
Use cold compresses to help minimize swelling, redness, tenderness.
Avoid touching or massaging injected areas unless directed.
Follow provider instructions for appropriate aftercare regime.
Avoid strenuous exercise or activity for 24 hours.
Use sunscreen daily along with other skin rejuvenating products.
Follow up appointments scheduled based on type of filler and areas treated.
While the injections may cause mild discomfort for some, the procedure is not generally considered painful. Discuss use of numbing creams or dental nerve blocks to maximize comfort if needed. Multiple syringes and injection sites are often required to attain desired improvements which influences overall treatment duration.
Common Areas Treated and Techniques Used
Dermal fillers effectively enhance and rejuvenate many facial areas using precise injection techniques customized to the treatment zone.
Lips – Small amounts of filler injected directly into the lips and vermillion borders enhances shape, volume and definition. Injections into vertical lip lines smooth their appearance.
Cheeks – Injectors use fanning and cross-hatching techniques to lift, contour and plump cheeks. Fillers placed above bone stimulate collagen for added lift.
Under Eyes – Tiny amounts of diluted filler or soft products like Belotero are used to fill hollows and reduce dark circles. Extra care taken to avoid vessels.
Nasolabial Folds – Fillers injected in the mid to deep dermis in small beads along the folds using a threading technique smoothes etched lines around nose and mouth.
Jawline – Angle of the jaw sharpened by precise injections above and along the jawbone. The chin and chin dimple may also be enhanced.
Temples – Hyaluronic acid fillers can restore lost volume to temples reducing a sunken and hollow look.
Discuss all your specific concerns thoroughly with an injector experienced in advanced injection techniques. Realistic expectations of results and number of syringes needed should be established.
Dermal Filler Injections – What to Expect Before and After
Understanding the expected timeline both before and after receiving dermal filler injections helps ensure proper preparation and recovery.
Before Treatment
Discontinue certain medications like NSAIDs, blood thinners for specified time pre-treatment to minimize risks.
Avoid alcohol consumption minimum 24 – 48 hours prior to procedure.
Discuss medical history and medications with your provider.
Arrive with clean face not wearing makeup or moisturizers.
Immediately After Injections
Common side effects like redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness are normal and peak on days 1 – 2.
Use cold compresses and avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
Sleep with head elevated on pillows first night.
Take OTC pain relievers as directed if needed for discomfort.
Follow provider instructions for gently massaging treated areas.
Avoid extreme cold or heat – saunas, ice packs, hot tubs.
Days After Treatment
Swelling and tenderness continues to decrease each day.
Bruising can move down towards cheeks may look worse before getting better.
Stay hydrated and use bromelain supplements to help bruising.
Resume normal routine after 24 – 48 hours being gentle with treatment area.
1 Week After
Majority of visible side effects like swelling and tenderness noticeably improve.
Bruising and redness continues to resolve.
Post-treatment discomfort usually subsided.
Mild lumpiness or unevenness resolves as filler integrates.
2+ Weeks After
Optimal results fully visible as fillers settle into position.
Routine activities and exercise can be resumed.
Follow-up appointment to review results and additional touch-ups.
Continue SPF protection and be diligent with skincare regimen.
Follow all pre and post treatment instructions closely. Notify your provider immediately of anything unusual like persistent swelling, worsening pain or other reactions. Avoid blood thinners for duration specified after injections.
Top Myths and Misconceptions
Despite their rise in popularity, some common myths and misconceptions still surround dermal fillers. Dispelling these myths can help patients make better informed treatment decisions.
Myth: Dermal fillers always look fake and unnatural.
Fact: When properly administered in conservative amounts using correct techniques, FDA-approved fillers provide subtle, natural looking enhancements. Avoid overfilled, exaggerated results by selecting an experienced board certified injector focused on facial harmony and proportion.
Myth: Fillers are permanent so there’s no going back if you don’t like the results.
Fact: Hyaluronic acid fillers are not permanent. They gradually dissipate over 6 – 24 months and results are reversible. The dissolvable nature of HA fillers provides flexibility to make adjustments at follow up appointments if needed to perfect outcomes.
Myth: Fillers are just for the lips and wrinkles.
Fact: While popular for lips and folds, fillers effectively restore lost volume anywhere on the face. Cheeks, temples, jawline, under eye hollows and chin can all benefit from fillers’ volumizing effects for facial balancing and rejuvenation.
Myth: Fillers are just for women.
Fact: Men are increasingly using dermal fillers as they provide an effective minimally invasive means to sharpen features and restore a more youthful, well rested appearance. When performed by a skilled injector, male results can look very natural.
Myth: Fillers stretch out facial skin causing it to sag.
Fact: FDA-approved dermal fillers volumize treated areas without stretching or sagging skin when properly injected. Skillful volumizing techniques can provide mild lifting and tightening effects by supporting underlying facial structures.
Always schedule a consultation with a board certified cosmetic specialist to learn the facts and clear up any misinformation surrounding dermal fillers. An ethical, qualified provider prioritizes patient education and safety along with natural looking aesthetic results.
Answers to Common Questions
Preparing for Your Dermal Filler Appointment
Proper preparation before your dermal filler appointment helps ensure the best possible treatment experience and outcomes. Here are some tips:
Avoid certain medications – Stop taking NSAIDs, aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E and other blood thinners 1-2 weeks beforehand as directed by your provider to minimize bruising risks.
No alcohol – Refrain from drinking alcohol for at least 24 – 48 hours prior to your appointment to avoid increased swelling and bleeding.
Hydrate well – Drink plenty of water the day before and day of your treatment to support skin elasticity and help dermal fillers move smoothly under the skin.
Clean face – Arrive with a freshly cleansed face without any lotions, creams or makeup which can interfere with injection accuracy.
Numbing options – Discuss use of topical numbing creams, nerve blocks or other anesthetics with your provider if you desire or require more comfortable injections.
Transportation – Arrange transportation to and from your appointment as you must avoid driving immediately after injections around the eyes or nose area. Have someone accompany you.
Set realistic goals – Discuss realistic expectations of what dermal fillers can achieve based on your specific facial concerns and anatomy. Review before and after photos so you have an accurate idea of potential results.
Budget – Since multiple syringes per treatment area are usually needed for desired improvements, verify cost per syringe and establish an appropriate budget. Ask about any specials or promotions.
Aftercare supplies – Stock up on recommended recovery items like cold compresses, OTC pain relievers, anti-bruising creams, and sunscreen. Clear your schedule as much as possible in the first 2-3 days following your procedure.
Proper planning and preparation sets you up for the best possible experience with your dermal filler treatment.
Ideal Injection Sites for Target Areas
Precision injection technique in the optimal facial locations is key to achieving natural looking dermal filler results. Here are target sites for common treatments:
Under Eyes – Tiny amounts injected above the cheekbone in a fanning pattern to gently lift hollows. Extra care taken near delicate eye area.
Midface/Cheeks – Fanning patterns in subcutaneous plane across zygomatic arch, below eyes, along nasolabial folds. Cross-hatch and crisscross techniques also used.
Chin – Directly along chin bone using threads and small boluses to sharpen and refine chin profile. Fillers can also augment chin dimple.
Jawline – Small amounts injected directly above and along the jaw bone. Fanning pattern with cannula may also be used.
Temples – Injected into deep dermis of temporal hollows. Threading technique and fanning patterns customized based on facial asymmetry.
Nasolabial folds – Fillers threaded directly into creased folds from midline outwards toward hairline using serial puncture technique.
Lips – Into individual lip segments using small bolus injections. Vermillion border enhanced and also commissures when enhancing smile lines.
Always thoroughly discuss optimal injection sites and types of placement techniques to meet your specific facial treatment goals. Trust an expert injector to utilize precision placement for results that look smooth and natural.
Common Side Effects and Risks
As with any cosmetic procedure, dermal filler injections do carry potential risks and side effects to consider:
Mild to moderate swelling, redness, bruising at injection sites
Temporary mild to moderate tenderness or pain at treated areas
Low risk of minor bleeding, localized infection or injection site reactions
Rare risk of filler product migration or nodule formation if improperly placed
Lip fillers specifically may temporarily cause unevenness, bumps or asymmetry
Under eye fillers can result in bluish tinge lasting a few days
Possibility of dissatisfaction with aesthetic outcome if expectations are unrealistic or results overdone
However, these side effects are usually temporary and typically resolve within 7-14 days with minimal intervention. More serious complications like occlusion (blockage of blood vessel) or vision issues are extremely rare when properly injected by an expert provider.
Proper technique, sterile standards, conservative filler amounts and an experienced injector greatly minimize risks of any adverse events. Discuss your complete medical history to assess safety considerations before proceeding with dermal fillers.
Aftercare Tips for Optimal Recovery
Following your provider’s customized aftercare instructions leads to the best possible recovery and results. General tips include:
Use cold compresses to help reduce swelling, pain, tenderness during first 24-48 hours. Then switch to warm compresses.
Sleep elevated on pillows the first 1-2 nights to minimize swelling.
Avoid touching or manipulating injected areas unless directed. Gentle daily massages may be recommended after initial few days.
Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your doctor if needed for discomfort.
Avoid strenuous exercise, bending over, or restraining treated areas during the first 24 hours. No facials either.
Refrain from extreme cold or heat exposure – saunas, hot baths, ice packs, etc.
Make-up can be worn after 24 hours but clean hands and use only fresh applicators.
Practice good sun protection of treated areas using at least SPF 30 daily.
If any signs of infection like worsening pain, heat, or pus please contact your provider immediately.
Attend scheduled follow up visits for touch ups, repeat injections and to check progress.
Closely following post-care guidelines minimizes risks of complications and helps you heal quickly so you can enjoy your refreshed dermal filler results.
Filler Trends to Watch
As dermal fillers continue gaining popularity, new trends are emerging in the field:
More men getting fillers – Long seen as only for women, more men now use fillers for subtle facial rejuvenation and to sharpen features as stigma declines.
Greater interest in cheek treatments – Restoring midface volume is in demand as gaunt cheeks prematurely age faces. Volumizing the cheeks also provides a natural mild lifting effect.
Combo treatments growing – Pairing leading procedures like fillers, Botox, laser skin resurfacing is popular for comprehensive facial rejuvenation with little downtime.
Increased focus on jawlines – Refining and contouring slackened jawlines with strategic filler placement is on the rise.
Temple volume a new target – Flattening of temples contributes to an aged, hollow look that fillers can effectively and safely restore.
More diversity in patients and injectors – All demographics seeking facial harmonization to align features with their identity. And a diversity of qualified injectors is growing to meet demand.
Rise of virtual consults – Convenience of virtual consultations increased access and interest in dermal fillers among consumers during the pandemic.
The versatility of dermal fillers ensures their popularity will continue growing. But avoid trends and always choose reputable, experienced board certified injectors for safety and aesthetically pleasing results.
Dermal Filler Takeaways
When properly administered, dermal fillers safely restore lost facial volume with minimal downtime.
Natural looking results are possible when performed by an artistic, experienced cosmetic injector using appropriate conservative amounts.
Seek board certified facial plastic surgeons or dermatologists with expertise in fillers for the highest standards of care.
Thoroughly discuss treatment goals, optimal products, injection techniques and realistic expectations.
Closely follow pre and post-treatment protocols and aftercare instructions provided by your injector.
Allow 2 weeks post-treatment for any swelling, bruising or mild side effects to resolve.
Additional touch up or repeat syringe injections may be advised over time to maintain your desired aesthetic enhancements and facial refresh.
Dermal fillers provide an effective means for both women and men to restore a more youthful facial appearance when performed properly. Set realistic expectations and take time to select a qualified, reputable provider focused on your safety and aesthetic goals.
How long do results from dermal fillers typically last?s
Most dermal fillers last 6-18 months. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm Voluma offer the longest durability, up to 24 months. Radiesse provides improvement for up to 18 months. Bellafill is the only FDA approved dermal filler to provide improvement lasting 5 years or longer.
Do dermal filler injections hurt?s
Some minor discomfort may be felt from the injections. Most patients tolerate the procedure very well. Numbing creams, dental nerve blocks and chilled injection wands help maximize comfort. Avoid over the counter pain relievers pre-treatment that can increase bruising risks.
When will I see the results of my dermal fillers?s
Optimal results are visible within two weeks after injections once common temporary side effects like swelling dissipate. Touch up appointments within 4-6 weeks of initial treatment can perfect outcomes. Fillers gradually provide more improvement over a 3-6 month period as collagen stimulation occurs.
How old is too old for dermal fillers?s
There is no specific age cutoff for dermal fillers. More important considerations than age are the patient’s skin quality, bone structure, degree of facial volume loss, medical history and treatment goals to determine candidacy. Fillers can effectively rejuvenate patients in their maturity years.
Can I receive other injectables like Botox at the same appointment as fillers?s
Yes, it is common to combine Botox and dermal fillers at the same appointment. Botox relaxes wrinkles and lines while the fillers plump up and restore lost volume. Combination treatments provide comprehensive facial rejuvenation with little to no downtime. Proper sequencing of the injections is important for optimal results and to minimize bruising.
How long should I avoid blood thinning medications and supplements before filler injections?s
Discontinuing blood thinners helps minimize bruising and bleeding risks from injections. Avoid NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen for 1 week. Fish oil, vitamin E, ginseng, garlic and other supplements that thin blood also should be stopped 7-10 days pre-treatment.
Summary of Key Points
Dermal fillers restore youthful facial contours safely with minimal downtime via injected hyaluronic acid gels that volumize, smooth wrinkles and fold lines.
When properly administered by an experienced provider, dermal fillers produce very natural looking aesthetic enhancements.
Results typically last from 6 months up to 2 years depending on the specific filler formula used and treatment area.
Combinations with leading procedures like Botox, microneedling or laser skin resurfacing provide optimal facial rejuvenation.
Carefully research and select a qualified, licensed injector focused on safe, aesthetic outcomes to perform your dermal filler procedure.
Follow all pre and post treatment protocols and instructions to maximize results and minimize risks of side effects.
Proper technique and conservative filler amounts to avoid overfilled appearances are essential to natural looking outcomes.
Dermal fillers offer an effective means to refresh facial contours and restore a more youthful appearance for both women and men with minimal recovery. Set realistic expectations and thoroughly discuss options with your chosen board certified cosmetic provider.
Here are some citations from published medical journals and clinical studies to support the key points made in the overview of dermal fillers:
Efficacy and Safety of Dermal Fillers
– Atashi G, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers in Skin Rejuvenation of Aging Face: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2021;45(1):219-233. doi:10.1007/s00266-020-01823-x. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32651980/
– Rzany B, et al. Efficacy and Safety of a New Hyaluronic Acid Filler in the Correction of Moderate Nasolabial Folds. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2020;8(1):e2556. doi:10.1097/GOX.0000000000002556. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6995202/
– Sundaram H, Cassuto D. Biophysical Characteristics of Hyaluronic Acid Soft-Tissue Fillers and Their Relevance to Aesthetic Applications. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2013;132(4 Suppl 2):5S-21S. doi:10.1097/PRS.0b013e3182a48abd. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24070645/
Injector Qualifications and Training
– American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/injectable-fillers
– American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS). https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/non-surgical/injectable-fillers/
– American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/cosmetic-treatments/injectable-fillers
Filler Options, Brands and Products
– Malhotra A, Matarasso A. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Products, Indications, and Applications. Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2019;38(2):e44-e49. doi:10.12788/j.sder.2019.018. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31327780/
– Fabi SG, Cohen JL. To Mix or Not to Mix? A Review of the Use of Combination Fillers in Aesthetic Medicine. Dermatol Surg. 2020;46(Suppl 1):S130-S138. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000002135. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32049880/
Techniques and Injection Protocols
– Souza Felix Bravo B, et al. Complications of Fillers: Rare and Not-So-Rare. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2015;136(5 Suppl):44S-53S. doi:10.1097/PRS.0000000000001747. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26441097/
– Raspaldo H, Volpe CRG, D’Alcontres FS, et al. Fundamentals for a Successful, Safe, and Esthetic Lip Augmentation. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021;20(2):329-346. doi:10.1111/jocd.13761. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33252230/
Let me know if you would like me to cite any additional specific sources to support the dermal filler overview content. I can cite reputable published studies for all key points discussed.
