What Are Dermal Fillers Made Of?

In Vienna, Virginia and around the country, fine lines and wrinkles can be an aesthetic nuisance for many people. These are common signs of aging and can be embarrassing for some individuals. Overcoming these cosmetic blemishes is often of the utmost importance to some patients. Those interested are encouraged to explore all of their options when it comes to getting rid of fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging.


Dermal fillers are one such treatment that has proven effective in relieving these conditions. The results of dermal fillers often depend on the specific filler used and vary greatly from dermal fillers whose results last a few months, to those whose results last several years. In many cases, the longevity of results coincides with the price of the treatment. Results from less expensive options such as Cosmoplast, Cosmoderm and Prevelle Silk may last two to six months, while results from more expensive options such as Artefill and Sculptra may last several years. Individuals interested in dermal fillers should discuss results with a trained medical professional for further information.

Like the longevity of results, the composition of dermal fillers varies from one filler to the next. Hyaluronic acid is a common ingredient in dermal fillers, and is found in popular options such as JUVEDERM®, Restylane, Perlane and Prevelle Silk. Radiesse is made of calcium hydroxyl apatite, while poly lactic acid is used in Sculptra. Collagen is used in many dermal fillers as well such as Cosmoplast and Cosmoderm (human collagen), Artefill (cow collagen) and Evolence (pig collagen).

Hypersensitivity to dermal fillers is rare, although Sculptra contains sulfa, and may cause allergic reactions in patients who are allergic to sulfa. Meanwhile, hypersensitivity to the cow collagen used in Artefill requires that patients undergo skin testing prior to treatment. Most dermal fillers do not require skin testing prior to the injections being made, although all patients are encouraged to heed the advice of their physician.

While most dermal fillers are not animal based, Artefill (cow collagen) and Evolence (pig collagen) are exceptions. If curious, patients are encouraged to discuss where the ingredients used to create the dermal filler come from. For example, those containing hyaluronic acid may come from streptococcus bacteria. Radiesse™ is synthetic, while Sculptra is created from a synthetic polymer of lactic acid.

For most dermal fillers, just one treatment is all that is necessary to reach optimal results. Sculptra, however, requires several treatments over the course of several months. Artefill requires just one treatment, however, and may last for over five years.

Another important filler characteristic to discuss with a cosmetic specialist or medical professional is the use of each dermal filler. Some dermal fillers such as JUVEDERM®, Restylane and Perlane are used to treat the nasolabial folds, lips, cheeks and around the mouth. Radiesse may treat the nasolabial folds, cheeks, temples and around the mount, but should not be used in the lips. Sculptra is used to provide general facial volume in cheeks, chin and temples, while Artefill may treat the nasolabial folds, cheeks and chin, but should not be used in the lips. Interested patients should discuss the uses of all dermal fillers before treatment.

Each dermal filler offers unique advantages and differences from other dermal fillers. Ironing out the characteristics, uses and requirements for each filler is important in determining which dermal filler is the right choice. A trained medical professional in the Vienna community should be consulted for more information.

To learn more about dermal fillers in Vienna, Virginia, Click Here.

 

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