Dermal fillers are injectable materials used to reduce the appearance
of wrinkles and improve volume and contour in the face and lips. Some newer
fillers can be used in your hands as well. There are many formulations of
fillers made of natural and synthetic materials that have different longevities
and performance.
How dermal filler treatment is performed
Dermal filler treatment is an in-office procedure that is
almost painless and has no downtime.
Your dermatologist will start by assessing your facial
features, discussing your filler options, and drawing injection guidelines on
your face with a marker. Some local anesthesia may be used to numb the
injection sites. Your dermatologist then injects the dermal filler in targeted
areas using a fine needle or a blunt-tipped injector called a cannula.
Dermal fillers are composed of materials that increase volume,
reduce the appearance of wrinkles, or boost natural collagen growth in your
skin. Options include:
- Bovine collagen for
nasolabial folds, acne scars, and forehead wrinkles
- Poly-l-lactic acid
that stimulates the fibrobrast cells in your skin that create collagen
- Calcium
hydroxylapatite for facial wrinkles, folds, and hollows
- Hyaluronic acid
that hydrates, volumizes, and softens your skin
- Autologous cell
therapy using fibrobrast cells taken from your skin and grown in a
lab
Recovery and results
Dermal fillers are considered safe as long as they are
injected properly. Common side effects can include bruising, swelling, and pain
lasting two days to two weeks. Serious complications like granulomas, infection,
and severe itching are rare but can occur if the filler is injected improperly.
Most dermal fillers are not permanent, so for lasting results you may need
touch-up treatments.