DERMAL FILLER
What is Dermal Filler?
Dermal fillers are injectable treatments specifically designed to restore lost facial volume, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and enhance natural facial contours, giving the face a more youthful, refreshed, and rejuvenated appearance. Unlike Botox, which works by temporarily relaxing the muscles responsible for causing wrinkles, dermal fillers add volume beneath the skin’s surface to effectively fill out wrinkles, folds, and hollow areas. These dermal fillers are primarily made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in the skin that plays a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration and plumpness, contributing to a healthy and vibrant complexion.
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Cheeks - As we age, the fat pads in our cheeks begin to thin, leading to a sunken or hollow appearance. This loss of volume can make the face look older and more tired. Dermal fillers are used to restore fullness to the cheeks, providing a lifted, more youthful appearance. Cheek fillers can also help enhance cheekbone definition, giving the face a more contoured and balanced look.
Lips - Lip fillers have become one of the most popular cosmetic treatments for those seeking to enhance the size, shape, or symmetry of their lips. Whether you want fuller lips, more definition, or just to restore volume lost over time, dermal fillers can create the perfect pout. Hyaluronic acid fillers in particular are commonly used to achieve natural-looking, plump lips without the “overdone” look.
Marionette Lines - Marionette lines are the vertical lines that extend from the corners of the mouth down to the chin, often contributing to a downturned, unhappy appearance. Dermal fillers are used to smooth these lines and restore balance to the lower part of the face, resulting in a more youthful and pleasant expression.
Chin and Jawline - Fillers can be used to enhance the chin and jawline, providing more definition and symmetry. A well-defined jawline and chin can enhance the overall balance of the face and improve its profile. Chin fillers are especially popular for those who have a naturally weak or receding chin, while jawline fillers can create a more sculpted, contoured appearance.
Nasolabial Folds - Fine lines around the mouth, often referred to as smoker’s lines, can appear from repetitive muscle movement or natural aging. Dermal fillers can smooth these lines and restore the youthful texture of the skin around the lips.
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1. Immediate Results - One of the most appealing aspects of dermal fillers is that they provide immediate results. As soon as the filler is injected, you will see a noticeable improvement in volume and reduction of wrinkles. Unlike some treatments that take weeks to show results, dermal fillers give you an instant boost in appearance.
2. Non-Surgical and Minimally Invasive - Dermal fillers offer a non-surgical alternative to facelifts and other invasive procedures. The treatment is minimally invasive, requiring only a series of small injections. There is no need for incisions, stitches, or lengthy recovery periods, making it a convenient option for those seeking facial rejuvenation without the risks and downtime associated with surgery.
3. Natural-Looking Enhancements - When administered by a skilled professional, dermal fillers provide natural-looking results that enhance your facial features without making you look overdone. The goal of filler treatment is not to change your appearance but to restore a youthful balance and fullness to your face. You’ll still look like yourself, just refreshed and rejuvenated.
4. Customizable Treatment - Dermal fillers can be tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you want to target one particular area, such as the lips, or address multiple concerns, such as volume loss in the cheeks and nasolabial folds, the treatment can be customized to achieve your desired outcome. Your practitioner will work with you to develop a treatment plan that enhances your natural beauty.
5. Long-Lasting Results - While dermal fillers are not permanent, the results are long-lasting, typically lasting anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the type of filler used and the area treated. Hyaluronic acid fillers, for example, generally last around 6-18 months, while other fillers like Sculptra and Radiesse can stimulate collagen production, leading to longer-lasting results. The longevity of the results allows you to enjoy a more youthful appearance for an extended period without frequent touch-ups.
6. Subtle and Gradual Changes - For those who prefer subtle, gradual improvements, dermal fillers can be administered in stages. This allows for a more conservative approach, with results becoming more apparent over time. This method is ideal for those who want to avoid drastic changes and prefer a more natural progression of facial enhancement.
7. Little to No Downtime - With dermal fillers, you can return to your daily activities immediately after treatment. There may be some mild swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection sites, but these side effects typically subside within a few days. Compared to surgical options, which require extensive recovery periods, dermal fillers offer a convenient way to achieve facial rejuvenation with little to no downtime.
8. Reversible Option - In the case of hyaluronic acid fillers, there is the added benefit of reversibility. If you are not satisfied with the results, the filler can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This gives patients peace of mind, knowing that they can adjust or reverse the treatment if necessary.
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What are dermal fillers and how do they work?
Dermal fillers are injectable gels made from hyaluronic acid or similar substances that restore volume, smooth out lines, and enhance facial contours. They work by adding structure beneath the skin, helping to lift and soften areas affected by aging or volume loss.
How long do fillers last in the cheeks or lips?
Fillers in the cheeks typically last 12–18 months, while lip fillers last 6–12 months due to higher mobility in that area. Longevity depends on the product used, your metabolism, and lifestyle factors.
Are fillers better than Botox for wrinkles?
It depends on the type of wrinkle. Botox relaxes dynamic wrinkles (caused by muscle movement, like frown lines), while fillers are better for static wrinkles (visible at rest) or areas that need volume. Many clients benefit from a combination of both.
Is it normal to bruise after dermal fillers?
Yes. Bruising and swelling are common and temporary side effects. They usually subside within a few days to a week. Avoiding blood-thinning medications and alcohol before treatment can help reduce the risk.
Can you dissolve filler if you don’t like it?
Yes. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be safely dissolved using hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down the product within minutes to hours. This offers peace of mind for clients wanting a reversible option.
Is it safe to get dermal fillers while breastfeeding?
There is limited research on filler safety during breastfeeding. Most professionals recommend waiting until after nursing to minimize any potential (though unproven) risks to your baby.
What is the best filler for under eyes or nasolabial folds?
For under eyes (tear troughs), a soft, smooth filler like Revanesse® Ultra is commonly used.
For nasolabial folds, slightly thicker fillers like Revanesse® Contour work well for softening deep lines without heaviness.
How often should I get filler top-ups?
Top-ups are typically done every 6–18 months, depending on the area treated and your goals. Some clients choose maintenance touch-ups before the filler fully wears off to keep results seamless.
Will my face look worse if I stop fillers?
No — your face won’t look worse than before. As the filler naturally breaks down, your face will gradually return to its original appearance. Some clients may notice the contrast if they’ve had filler for years, but stopping won’t cause sagging or damage.
