Fillers are products used to replace the volume we lose in our faces as we age. If done carefully and with a good aesthetic sense, you will look rejuvenated and natural.
Certainly, if too much filler is placed, or it is placed into the wrong location, it can look unnatural. For best results, we recommend seeking out a specialist who has expertise in using fillers in the face.
While the results can be subtle, there are real results. If you are on a tight budget, it’s best to focus on one area in particular, rather than putting a small amount of filler in several areas.
Most filler products today are hyaluronic acid products (Juvederm®, Voluma®, Restylane®, Belotero®). These can be reversed, usually within several days, by injecting a product called hyaluronidase into the filled areas if necessary.
Much of the bruising and swelling that can occur with filler injections, particularly around the eyes or mouth, can be reduced by using cool compresses, arnica montana, and elevating the head of the bed.
Most of the time, bruising and/or swelling can be concealed with make-up and is not very noticeable. As a safeguard against the occasions when it is more noticeable, we recommend that you don’t have your filler treatments performed within a week to 10 days of a major event such as a wedding.
Many filler products are packaged with numbing solution mixed into them. Topical numbing ointments provide additional relief. Additionally, micro-cannulas which are blunt tipped - not sharp, like needles, typically have minimal discomfort. Facial Fillers Overview
While it’s true that many fillers need to be repeated, the frequency of maintenance isn’t as long as most people think. It depends on such factors as the filler being used, where it is placed, and the activity level of the person receiving the filler. Consequently, fillers may only need to be repeated every 6-8 months or as infrequently as once every 2 years depending on the above factors.
While fillers add volume and can give the appearance of “looking lifted,” they cannot ever replace the results of surgery, which lifts and tightens the deeper tissues while removing excess and sagging skin. Often, a combination of surgery plus volume replacement with filler will provide optimal rejuvenation results.
What’s most important regarding fillers is not the type of filler used. Rather, it is the skill, talent, aesthetic sense, and expertise of the practitioner administering the filler. The process is similar to commissioning a beautiful piece of art. The type of paint or clay being used is secondary. What’s paramount is the skill and vision of the artist.
There are many physicians, nurses, and dentists that will offer fillers to their patients as a source of extra income. Often, they have little training, sometimes just having taken a weekend course. It’s best to seek a specialist who has expertise in facial aesthetics and years of training when it comes to performing these procedures.
Not all fillers are the same, nor can they be placed in any location. Certain fillers should be avoided around the eyes and lips. Juvederm®, for example, attracts water, and therefore is not ideal to use close to the eyes where the skin is thin.
If you are a new or current patient and would like to schedule a consultation, please fill out our secure online request here. We'll contact you to schedule your consult. You can also call our office during normal business hours (8:30-5:00pm). We will be able to answer your questions and schedule appointments for you.
NOTICE: This is only a guide and is not a guarantee of results. This article is for your entertainment only and is not being given as medical advice. Always consult your personal physician on any medical matters.
