Sorting Through the Various Dermal Fillers

Patients in the New York, New York area have found success through various dermal fillers available at cosmetic clinics and medical spas in their area. The various fillers differ in several ways, but most work to reverse the effects of aging. Different fillers may be used to treat different areas of the body, some treating the nasolabial folds while others are used in the lips. The best resource for information regarding any particular filler is a medical professional with adequate experience in the field.

Dermal fillers may be collagen based, hyaluronic acid based, poly lactic acid based or calcium hydroxylapatite based. The medical field is constantly in expansion and new formulas and dermal fillers may be expected in the future. For the most up to date information, patients are encouraged to speak with a medical professional at a reputable clink in their area.

Examples of hyaluronic acid based fillers include Juvederm, Restylane and Perlane. These fillers may be used around the mouth, in the nasolabial folds, on the cheeks and in the lips. Results from these treatments typically last 6 to 12 months in the nasolabial folds and 3 to 6 months in the lips. These treatments are moderately priced compared to other fillers.

In general, the longer the results last, the more expensive the treatment. Sculptra is a poly lactic acid based filler whose results last between two and four years, but the treatment is more expensive than other fillers. Sculptra may require several treatments over the course of several months to reach optimal results. This filler provides facial volume in the cheeks, chin and temples.

Artefill is another dermal filler whose results last for a very long time, sometimes lasting for more than five years. Some even consider this treatment semi-permanent once the patient reaches desired results. This is a poly methyl methacrylate and bovine collagen based filler that has been used to treat the nasolabial folds, cheeks and chin. It should not be used in the lips. Due to the possibility of hypersensitivity to bovine collagen, skin testing is required prior to this treatment.

There are minimal complications associated with dermal fillers. Any complications that do occur are usually due to poor injection technique or mistakes made by the doctor performing the injection. For this reason it is important that patients locate a reputable clinic in the New York area. Possible side effects may include hypersensitivity, activation of existing herpes infection and bruising, redness or swelling at the injection site. In rare cases, vascular occlusion and ulceration have been reported.

Patients interested in dermal fillers are encouraged to speak with a medical professional regarding the two types of fillers available: collagen and silicon. Silicon fillers have been known to cause the formation of bumpy scars even long after the treatment has been applied. Modern treatments claim to have eliminated this side effect, but long term studies are still being conducted.

Collagen is a natural substance whose levels may decrease as people age. This is a natural protein found in the body that provides structural support to the skin, muscles and other structures. No recovery time is required following injection of collagen fillers and treatments usually take less than one hour to perform.

As each filler may present different risks or side effects, it is important for patients to discuss any particular filler with a medical professional. Common risks, however, may include allergic reactions, pain, scar formation and infection. Any further questions or concerns should be directed to a medical professional at a reputable clinic in the area.

Learn more about dermal fillers in New York, New York.

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR

All Article Categories

Before & After Photos

Suggested Doctors

Recently Asked Questions