Today's dermal or facial fillers can offer a youthful appearance for a fraction of the cost of a conventional facelift. Most fill wrinkles and laugh lines within a half hour, and the results can last up to a year or more. Unlike Botox that relaxes the underlying muscles, dermal fillers fill areas with one of a few different substances to make trouble spots disappear, and reverse signs of aging.
However, not all fillers are appropriate for every kind of wrinkle, and that's why patients should only have injections done by a certified plastic surgeon. Read on to understand the different types of fillers available today for helping patients get the best results.
Hyaluronic Wrinkle Fillers
The most commonly used category of facial fillers is hyaluronic acid-based. Each kind works slightly differently, and results can vary. Popular examples include:
- Juvederm®
- Voluma®
- Restylane® & Perlane®
The duration of results can range from a few months to a year or longer, and limited research shows that repeated treatments may encourage the body to make more of its own collagen. Side effects are minor and rare, but can include injection site bruising, swelling, or redness.
Synthetic Fillers
This category of dermal fillers is smaller, and includes man-made substances that aren’t naturally found in the skin. All fillers in this category have similar potential side effects such as swelling, redness, and injection site bruising. However, the results last longer and can be permanent in some cases. When these fillers are not correctly used, they can potentially cause disfigurement. Synthetic fillers include:
- Silicone
- Sculptra®
- Radiesse®
Collagen Fillers
The first fillers were made from a pure form of collagen taken from cows. Although the filler worked well and looked natural, the results were short-lived, and there was a high chance of allergic reaction in sensitive patients. Today's collagen processing methods have lowered the risk, and these injections are safer for a wider range of patients. Moreover, they still offer short-term yet completely natural-looking results.
Gain Understanding from Your Doctor
Wrinkle fillers and facial injections are some of the safest cosmetic treatments available today; yet there are still certain risks to consider, though very low. For the best results, patients should consult with a cosmetic surgeon to gain a full understanding of how FDA-approved fillers work and which ones may be best for their needs. Patients should also not base decisions solely on price; and treatments should only be done with a cosmetic surgeon in a medical office where the professional staff use sterile devices.
When patients are informed about different options for dermal fillers, they experience safer and more satisfying results. Consult with Dr. Patt at the Houston Center for Facial Plastic Surgery today to receive the best dermal filler results!
