Also known as dermal fillers and soft tissue fillers. Fillers are used for minimally invasive aesthetic procedures to add volume, alter the contours of the face, and fill in wrinkles. Common areas to inject fillers are in the face, neck, and hands resulting in a fuller, smoother and more youthful appearance. Dermal fillers are among the most popular aesthetic procedures because they carry immediate results, very few risks and little recovery time.

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COMMON BRAND NAMES FOR FILLERS:

• Hyaluronic Acid-based fillers- Restylane®, Juvederm®, Belotero®, Revanesse Versa®

• Semi-Permanent fillers- Radiesse®

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WHEN TO CONSIDER FILLERS

• If you have deep lines around the eyes, or mouth as well as volume loss.

• If you would like to change the contours of your jaw or lips.

• If you are interested in a minimally invasive procedure. 

 

PROS

• Filler injections are quick and only require a topical anesthetic at most.

• Results are immediate and there is little to no downtime.

• Fillers provide a subtle look that can be adjusted to meet your aesthetic needs.

CONS

• Fillers are temporary and require repeat injections to maintain your goal.

• Some people may be sensitive and experience bruising and swelling.

• No vigorous exercise for up to 24 hours.

 

HOW IS A FILLER PROCEDURE PERFORMED?

Fillers are administered with a syringe to various areas on the face and head, including around the eyes, along the jaw, around the lips and in the forehead. The number, location and depth of the injections depend largely on the type of dermal fillers used and the desired results. Some fillers contain a local anesthetic like lidocaine to enhance comfort during injection. Numbing cream may also be used. 

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IMMEDIATELY AFTER INJECTION

You will likely see the results of your injections immediately following the procedure, though it’s not uncommon for patients to experience swelling or minimal bruising in the area of the injection site. Your injector may give you an ice pack or cold compress to help stem swelling. The period of swelling will depend largely on the type of soft tissue filler you received, though most swelling, bruising, and redness should dissipate within one week to ten days.

 

RECOVERY AND RESULTS

One of the most enticing features of soft tissue fillers is their minimal recovery time. In the approximate week it takes for swelling and bruising to disappear, your injector may advise you to avoid wearing hats or other headgear and only use small amounts of makeup.

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The length of results from your dermal fillers is dependent on the type of injection you received. Hyaluronic Acid- based fillers- results vary, though results of most common brands will last five to nine months. Semi-Permanent fillers- results will last between 18  and 24 months.