Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are injectable substances that can plump thin lips, enhance shallow contours, remove wrinkles and improve the appearance of recessed scars. Dermal fillers have been called “liquid facelifts” because they offer many of the benefits of a surgical facelift without the downtime. These treatments are not permanent, however, and they must be repeated and maintained. Some dermal fillers are used in conjunction with other skin rejuvenation treatments, such as botulinum toxin injections.
The first fillers were collagen so you may hear that term used even if that is not the substance being discussed. Some brand names of dermal fillers you may know are Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, Purlane and many others. They all have pluses and minus.
The Procedure:
First, Dr. Frost will listen to your desired results and evaluate your skin tone and facial appearance. The injection sites are cleansed and cold is applied to decrease sensation in the area. In some cases, the dermal filler itself contains an anesthetic. The injections will take just a few minutes, just seconds per site. Once the injections are complete you will be given an ice pack to apply to the injection areas. Be careful not to apply pressure to the treated areas, as doing so may result in movement of the dermal filler.
There is no downtime with dermal fillers and you can resume most activities right away.
Expected Side Effects:
- Pain
- Bruising
- Numbness
- Soreness
- Redness
Risks:
- Antibodies, or rejection of filler material, may reduce the effectiveness of future injections
- Itching
- Necrosis (skin death) – very rare
- Skin rash
- Migration of filler material away from original site
- Swelling
- Under or over-correction of wrinkles
Questions:
Our goal is for you to be informed. If you have a question, please call our office at 850.474.8333.