The Many Types of Dermal Fillers

Many patients who are interested in dermal fillers in the Tamarac, Florida area are aware that there are several types of dermal fillers on the market. They may not be as clear on how the many dermal fillers differ from one another and what factors they should consider when choosing a dermal filler that fits their needs. In most cases, a skincare professional such as a dermatologist or medical spa technician may be the most reliable source for information, but understanding some of the more common fillers before an appointment may be helpful.

For starters, patients interested in dermal fillers should determine if they may be allergic to certain fillers. Most dermal fillers do not require skin testing before treatment, although some do to avoid possible risks and complications such as allergic reactions. Artefill, for instance, requires skin testing because of the risk of hypersensitivity to the bovine (cow) collagen used in the filler.

Patients should also be aware of what each dermal filler is made of. The most common compositions include hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxyl apatite and poly lactic acid. There are also various types of collagen that are commonly used in dermal fillers. Collagen may be human, bovine or porcine (pig). Talk to your doctor for other collagen options. Lidocaine anesthetic may be mixed with certain dermal fillers as well.

Patients should also keep in mind that certain dermal fillers treat certain areas that others may not. For instance, Juvederm, Perlane and Restylane treat the nasolabial folds, lips, cheeks and around the mouth, while Radiesse treats the nasolabial folds, cheeks, temples, around the mouth, but not the lips. Sculptra is used to provide general facial volume to the cheeks, chin and temples. Cosmoplast and Cosmoderm are used in the nasolabial folds and the lips and may treat fine lines on the face. Patients should discuss their needs with a skincare professional to determine which filler is right for them.

As people age, their skin gradually loses collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin. Replenishing these materials may help to eliminate fine lines and wrinkles and may help patients achieve younger, more attractive looking skin. Many patients and skincare professionals now consider dermal fillers a natural way to reverse the signs of aging compared to a facelift.

Some patients turn to dermal fillers to reverse signs of aging, while others turn to dermal fillers to raise scar depressions, enhance the lips or replenish soft tissue loss. Those with specific questions regarding the possible uses of dermal fillers are encouraged to discuss the subject with a trained skincare professional in the Tamarac area.

Keep in mind that the results achieved through dermal fillers do not last forever. Some dermal fillers, however, last much longer than others, although longer-lasting options tend to be more expensive. For instance, Juvederm, Perlane and Restylane are moderately priced options that may last between 6 and 12 months, or 3 to 6 months when used in the lips. Cosmoplast and Cosmoderm may last just 2 to 6 months and are on the cheaper end of the spectrum.

More expensive options that may last longer are Sculptra (2 to 4 years) and Artefill (5 years or more). Interested patients should consult an experienced skincare professional in Tamarac for more specific pricing information.

Learn more about dermal fillers in Tamarac, Florida.