Dermal fillers are a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment for enhancing facial beauty. They are used to smooth out wrinkles, plump up lips, and add volume to hollow areas of the face. Fillers are made of different materials, including hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). They are injected directly into the skin to restore volume, hydration, and structure to the face, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
One of the most common types of dermal fillers is hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that provides hydration and volume. Over time, the levels of hyaluronic acid in the skin decrease, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and a loss of volume. HA fillers are designed to replace the lost hyaluronic acid, restoring hydration and volume to the face. HA fillers are well-tolerated, safe, and long-lasting, typically lasting six to nine months.
Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers are another popular type of dermal fillers. CaHA fillers are made of microspheres of calcium hydroxylapatite, a naturally occurring mineral in the body. These microspheres are suspended in a gel-like substance and are injected into the skin to add volume to areas that have lost volume due to aging or other factors. CaHA fillers are long-lasting and can last up to two years.
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers are made from a synthetic material that is similar to the material used in dissolvable sutures. PLLA fillers are designed to stimulate the body’s own production of collagen, the protein responsible for skin’s structure and elasticity. As a result, PLLA fillers provide a gradual improvement in skin texture and quality over time, and can last up to two years.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fillers are made from a synthetic material that provides long-lasting results. PMMA fillers are typically used to enhance the cheekbones, temples, and jawline, providing a more defined and sculpted appearance to the face. PMMA fillers can last up to five years or more.
Dermal fillers are performed by a trained healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or licensed aesthetician. The procedure is typically done in an office setting and takes only a few minutes to complete. Most dermal fillers are done using a local anesthetic, although some patients may choose to have a topical or oral anesthetic.
The results of dermal fillers are immediate, with full results visible within a few days to a week after the procedure. Fillers provide a natural-looking improvement to the face, and are an excellent alternative to surgical procedures for those who are not ready for a more invasive procedure. Fillers can also be used in combination with other cosmetic treatments, such as Botox or laser resurfacing, to provide a more comprehensive rejuvenation of the face.
Dermal fillers are generally safe and well-tolerated, with few side effects. The most common side effects include redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site, which typically resolve within a few days. Other rare side effects can include infection, allergic reactions, and the development of nodules or lumps under the skin.
It is important to choose a reputable and experienced healthcare professional to perform your dermal filler procedure.