A filler treatment is a cosmetic dermatological procedure that is used to minimize the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles to restore a youthful look. It is a great treatment option for those who want to eliminate the signs of aging but are not willing to undergo invasive treatments such as a traditional facelift. It works by filling up areas of the face that are prone to sagging to bring back its natural volume and fullness. Although it does not bring permanent results, it offers a simpler, safer, and cheaper way to look younger.
Working of the procedure
A dermal filler works by raising or puffing up particular areas of the face. It is most commonly used in areas that succumb to sagging skin, which creates a hollowed look. The specific manner as to how the procedure works depends on the type of fillers being used. Existing options include:
- Hyaluronic acid – The most commonly used type of dermal filler, a hyaluronic acid filler works by drawing fluid to the specified part of the face that needs a lift. This substance is used in popular filler brands such as Juvederm, Captique, and Restylane; the effects of these fillers typically last around 9 months to 1 year.
- Fat graft – A fat graft, also known as an autologous fat, refers to fat cells that are taken from another part of the patient's own body then injected into the recipient site. Since the injected filler is made of actual human fat, the effects of this type of treatment can last for years.
- Polymer – Filler brands like Sculptra uses a man-made and biodegradable polymer substance. This is another long-lasting option, with effects lasting up to two years.
- Calcium hydroxylapatite – This is the main substance used in another popular filler brand Radiesse, which can keep wrinkles and skin aging at bay for up to 12 months.
- Bovine collagen – Fillers like Zyderm and Zyplast use bovine collagen. However, due to the nature of this substance, the patient has to undergo an allergy test at least 4 weeks prior to undergoing the treatment to ensure that he or she will not have any adverse reactions to the injectable filler.
- Microscopic plastic beads – Because bovine collagen treatment does not offer permanent results, it is often mixed with microscopic beads that are made of polymethyl methacrylate or PMMA that stay under the skin for good even when the collagen melts away; they therefore effectively extend the effects of the treatment to at least 5 years.
Uses of Fillers
While dermal fillers are casually known as “wrinkle fillers,” they can do much more than just smooth out wrinkles, although they are excellent at this too! Here are a few of the common issues dermal fillers can help address:
- Smooth out lines around nose and mouth (a.k.a. marionette lines, smile lines, and parentheses)
- Enhance & restore volume to sunken cheeks or temples
- Diminish vertical lip lines
- Plump & enhance the lips
- Smooth out a chin crease
- Improve symmetry among facial features
How long do fillers last
How long the effects of dermal fillers will last depends on the product, the area of treatment, and the patient. Generally speaking, the denser the product is and the more deeply it is injected, the longer it will last, although this is not a hard and fast rule. To maintain your results, your cosmetic surgeon will simply repeat treatment, adjusting the amount and techniques as necessary to ensure optimal results.
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