Filler injections

With the aging process, facial bones begin to resorb, and our soft tissues begin to lose volume and/or move downwards and inward. This leads to facial features such as sagginess, deep folds, sunken features, and thin lips. During the dermal filler injection procedure, small amounts of dermal filler are placed in specific locations based on the physician’s knowledge of facial anatomy and assessment of the signs of aging for which correction is desired in each patient.

The most widely used dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance found naturally in our skin, eyes, and joints. These are commercially known as Belotero^®, Restylane^®, or Juvederm^®, among others. HA fillers are manufactured as gels with various properties, which are used in different areas of the face to achieve the desired results. In the skin, hyaluronic acid (HA) attracts water, increasing skin hydration.

Other types of fillers exist, notably calcium hydroxylapatite filler – commercially known as Radiesse^®.

More broadly, other forms of injectables exist, known as “bio stimulators,” such as poly-L-lactic acid, commercially known as Sculptra^®.

When dermal filler injections are performed by a skilled skin specialist, small amounts of dermal filler are strategically placed to obtain the desired result without overfilling. The treatment is tailored to address the underlying causes of the aging process for each patient over time. In addition, at Aura Dermatologie, we love to combine dermal filler injections with other procedures to obtain natural-looking results and to minimize the addition of volume.

Overfilling, sometimes called “alienization,” can happen for several reasons. It may result from an injector’s lack of skill, reluctance to advise patients when to stop, or a patient struggling with body dysmorphic disorder.

The key to natural-looking results with dermal fillers is a refined and precise approach that enhances facial features rather than overfills. If dermal fillers aren’t the right option, we’ll let you know and guide you toward alternatives, including surgery.

While both neuromodulators – commercially known as Botox^®, Dysport^®, Xeomin^®, and dermal fillers – commercially known as Belotero^®, Restylane^®, and Juvederm^® – are injectable treatments, they work completely differently. Neuromodulators relax dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movements, such as crow’s feet and frown lines. In contrast, dermal fillers add volume to areas that have lost collagen and elasticity (such as the cheeks, lips, and under-eye hollows). Many patients benefit from a combination of both for full-face harmonious rejuvenation.

Beyond wrinkle reduction and in the right candidates, fillers can be used to:

– Enhance and define cheekbones
– Plump and hydrate the lips
– Improve under-eye hollows for a rested look
– Contour the jawline and chin
– Correct asymmetries and minor imperfections
– Rejuvenate aging hands

The effects of injectable dermal fillers are seen immediately.

The duration of injectable fillers varies from patient to patient and depends on numerous factors including: properties of the filler, where it is injected, the age of the patient, the patient’s skin and their overall health condition.

For example, when hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are injected into the lips for a natural-looking appearance, noticeable results may last 3-6 months. When HA fillers are injected into other areas of the face, such as the nasolabial folds, they may last 9-12 months. It is believed that small amounts of HA filler remain in the tissues for many years.

The dermal filler injection procedure usually requires minimal to no downtime, and most patients can resume their regular activities immediately after the treatment. In some instances, temporary bruising, redness, or swelling may occur. For this reason, it is not recommended to undergo this procedure within 2 weeks of an important social event.