Chances are you already have a basic understanding of what dermal fillers are and what they do. Even still, like most people exploring the options, you probably have questions about how fillers work, which aging concerns can be addressed with dermal fillers, the difference between synthetic and natural fillers, whether there is a “best” dermal filler, and what risks dermal fillers pose.
Below we address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding dermal fillers to help you decide whether this cosmetic procedure is right for you.
Dermal fillers can be used to fix a variety of concerns related to facial aging, including:
• Adding volume and diminishing deep creases in the mouth and nose areas (nasolabial folds or “laugh lines”). • Adding volume to thin lips and diminishing vertical lines at the edges of the lips. • Restoring youthful fullness to cheeks lost from aging and/or weight loss. • Diminishing age-related hollows (depressions) under the eye area. • Reducing or eliminating the appearance of acne scars or scars caused by medical conditions such as chicken pox. • Increasing volume in the lower cheek or temple areas lost during the aging process, due to fat pads shifting beneath the skin’s surface.
How dermal fillers work
Dermal fillers utilize naturally-obtained or synthetic material that is directly injected into targeted areas of the skin to plump the area to decrease or diminish wrinkles, indentations, or folds.
Depending on the type of filler used, results can last from six months to two years. Cosmetic improvements from some semi-permanent or permanent fillers can last up to five years.
The difference between dermal fillers and Botox
It is important to understand the differences between dermal fillers and Botox. While both involve injections, Botox is most often injected to address wrinkles around the forehead and the eyes (crow’s feet). Botox blocks muscle movement that causes wrinkles to develop and deepen. Botox does not provide the plumping and smoothing effect that dermal fillers offer.
Because Botox and dermal fillers work in different ways, many people benefit from a combination of Botox and dermal filler to achieve the remarkably younger-looking results they’re after.
Synthetic vs. natural dermal fillers
Dermal fillers are categorized into two groups: synthetic and natural.
Naturally-derived fillers (hyaluronic acid) have a smaller risk of causing an allergic reaction, although reactions can occur. Results of these fillers are immediate and generally last from three to 18 months. In some instances, results can last up to two years. Over time, the filler breaks down, at which time new injections become necessary to maintain results. Nearly every person who receives filler treatments will need at least one follow-up injection within a year.
In addition to potential allergic reactions, the risk of lumping and migration comes with fillers, although this happens infrequently. Since filler results last a relatively short period of time, so do the potential problems.
Synthetic fillers last longer than their naturally-derived counterparts and are considered semi-permanent. Some consider synthetic fillers permanent because they do not dissipate. Wrinkles only return because the face continues to age, or the patient continues to experience sun damage by neglecting sunscreen applications daily.
Synthetic fillers also come with risks similar to those associated with naturally-derived fillers. The difference between the two boils down to the semi-permanent or permanent nature of synthetic fillers—their potential risks can be permanent as well and are harder to correct.
Dermal filler risks
The most significant issue with fillers is longevity, followed by the risk of migration and lumping, and the skill of the physician injecting the right amount of filler in exactly the right places.
Regardless of the filler being used, there is a learning curve to injection techniques and understanding how the range of substances affect each individual’s skin. For this reason, it’s important to find an experienced practitioner.
Look for a physician who offers more than one type of filler. Most people who consider fillers for cosmetic procedures have more than one area of concern that can be addressed by fillers, and different fillers are designed to treat specific concerns, such as lines around the mouth and creases in the forehead.
Which dermal filler is “the best”?
Regardless of what you may have read or heard, there is no “best” dermal filler. All dermal fillers have risks, even rare ones. The filler substance considered “best” or “preferred” for your aesthetic treatments will depend on the doctor’s technique, skill, experience, training, your unique facial needs, and tolerance.
Dermal fillers have continuously changed and improved over the past 20 years. Many fillers that were popular or highly endorsed in the past have been discontinued and replaced with new options for a variety of reasons. Talk to your physician regarding the fillers he or she recommends for your anti-aging treatments.
When to Consider Dermal Fillers
Consider dermal fillers when other skincare products fail to correct signs of aging.
While great skincare regimens can make a huge difference in the appearance of your skin, the natural aging process, muscle movement, fat loss, gravity, sun damage and other factors amidst other eventually take their toll. Fillers can effectively diminish the appearance of deep lines and give skin a more graceful, youthful appearance in ways that other skincare products simply can’t improve.
If you’re considering dermal fillers, the consult with a dermatologist or aesthetic practitioner to determine which type of filler is right for you. Don’t forget, as with any cosmetic corrective procedure, you’ll still need to use quality skincare products and sun protection as part of your anti-aging routine to keep your skin looking younger and healthier over time.
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