Young, healthy-looking skin contains an abundance of a naturally hydrating substance called hyaluronic acid. As you age, sunlight and other factors can reduce the amount of hyaluronic acid in your skin. The lack of hyaluronic acid causes your skin to lose structure and volume, creating unwanted facial wrinkles and folds. Injectable hyaluronic acid fillers are smooth gels that are injected to instantly reduce the appearance of wrinkles and hollowed areas.
How Do Injectable Dermal Fillers Work?
Injectable dermal fillers work by imitating the hyaluronic acid that gives younger skin its fullness and buoyancy. These also boost the supply of this sugar molecule in the skin. When injected into facial skin, dermal fillers can reduce the appearance of skin laxity, sagging, and wrinkles while also adding more youthful volume to the face. These FDA-approved substances are safe for the body and dissolve on their own over time. In consultation with you, a dermatologist will determine where dermal fillers can be best applied.
Conditions Treated by Injectable Dermal Fillers
Injectable wrinkle fillers and relaxers are commonly used by dermatologists to address the cosmetic imperfections caused by wrinkles aging and sagging. An injectable filler is injected directly into the wrinkle to fill it and create a smoother appearance. Fillers are ideal for expression lines around the brows or mouth where constant muscular tension creates wrinkles.
What Equipment Is Used?
JUVÉDERM® XC
JUVÉDERM VOLUMA® XC
Restylane®
Restylane-L®
Restylane® Silk
What Will The Procedure Feel Like?
Small injections are made in the areas of concern. The injectable fillers contain a numbing agent which makes the treatments more tolerable. Ice is applied to each site prior to injection to minimize discomfort.
Do I Have To Do Anything To Prepare In Advance?
You should avoid aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen 10-14 days prior to treatment to minimize the risk of bruising. Other supplements that should be avoided include gingko, garlic, fish oil and vitamin E (found in almonds and almond milk). Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of bruising and should be avoided two days prior to treatment. If you have a history of cold sores, be sure to notify your doctor prior to your appointment and he or she will prescribe a medication to take the night before that will reduce the likelihood of a breakout.
What Will I Look Like Afterwards?
Patients should expect swelling, redness, bruising and soreness at injection sites. Ice is recommended post treatment to help minimize swelling and bruising. We ask that you avoid exercise for 48 hours post treatment to minimize delayed bruising caused by increased pressure to the vessels. Bruising can last for up to two weeks after treatment. You may apply makeup immediately after treatment and continue your regular skin care products.
How Many Treatments Are Necessary?
Results typically last 6-12 months.
When Will I See Results?
You can expect to see an immediate effect, but the true results can be appreciated in the two weeks following treatment once the potential swelling has resolved and the filler has settled in.
Who Cannot Have The Treatment?
Patients who are pregnant or nursing should not have the treatment. Patients with an allergy to lidocaine cannot have treatment with injectable filler containing this. Please notify your provider if you have severe allergies, autoimmune disease or bleeding disorders.
BEFORE + AFTER PHOTOS
FILLER FOR LIPS
FILLER FOR LIPS
Related Conditions
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Fine lines and wrinkles are a natural function of aging that can present at any age and on any type of skin. Learn More
Scars
Scars are permanent changes in the skin due to inflammation or injury such as a surgical procedure or even cystic acne. Learn More
Volume Loss
Also known as soft tissue atrophy, volume loss is a condition in which the skin begins to lose its fullness and elasticity. Learn More
Before Filler for Lips
Female patient lips.
After Filler for Lips
Results five days after receiving filler.
Before Filler for Lower Face
Female patient with fine lines and wrinkles.
After Filler for Lower Face
Results two days after receiving filler.
Before Filler for Lower Face and Cheeks
Female patient with facial lines and sagging skin.