Filler FAQs
What are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers, or soft tissue fillers, are products made from substances such as hyaluronic acid, that help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and creases, raise depressed scars, and add contour to the lips and cheeks. Fillers are a long-lasting, non-permanent solution to create a more youthful appearance.
Who can Receive Dermal Fillers?
The dermal fillers used in our medical spas have naturally occurring ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Therefore, there is no need for allergy testing before dermal filler treatment and most patients are excellent candidates for this anti-aging and facial contouring treatment.
How do Dermal Fillers Compare to tox?
Tox and dermal fillers are all categorized as wrinkle-reducers. However, their application in dermal tissue is completely different. Tox is commonly used in the upper areas of the face that develop wrinkles as a result of facial movement. Tox is ideal for dynamic wrinkles as it binds to the nerve receptors in muscle tissue and prevents the uptake of specific chemicals that cause contraction. Dermal fillers adhere to water molecules in the subcutaneous tissue beneath the epidermis, plumping superficial layers of the skin and strengthening the dermis.
Which Dermal Filler is Right for Me?
Restylane Refyne and Defyne are used to treat mild to moderate lines and wrinkles with results lasting anywhere from nine months up to two years depending on the product and area of treatment.
Restylane hyaluronic acid filler is commonly used to smooth lines and creases around the nose and mouth. Results last up to one year.
Restylane Lyft has been developed with a dense consistency and is ideal for restoring volume and contour to the midface. The larger particle sizes integrate well into deeper layers of tissue for results that last approximately one year.
Juvéderm Ultra and Ultra Plus are hyaluronic acid fillers that are commonly used around the mouth and lips. Juvederm ultra plus has larger particles of HA for better structural hold. Each product may last up to one year.
Juvéderm Voluma is a hyaluronic acid product with a dense consistency that adds volume and structure to the cheek area. The mid-sized HA particles in Voluma are suitable for lifting deep lines and creases around the nose and mouth. Results from treatment can last up to two years.
Juvéderm Volbella is a gel-based hyaluronic acid filler developed specifically for lip augmentation. Volbella’s small particle size and cohesive consistency make it ideal for long-lasting softness, fullness and natural-looking results. Results can last up to one year.
Juvéderm Vollure is a highly cross-linked hyaluronic acid filler that smooths perioral lines and creases for up to 15 months.
Versa is a hyaluronic acid filler that is very “versatile” and can be used on several parts of the face and body.
Are Fillers Permanent?
No. Dermal fillers are not permanent. Dermal fillers are a long-lasting cosmetic anti-aging solution but do degrade over time. Treatment may be repeated every few months to years to create a more youthful appearance.
Can Fillers Be Dissolved if I Don’t Like the Results?
Yes. Dermal fillers are completely reversible, with the exception of Sculptra. If you receive filler treatment with a hyaluronic acid product, such as Juvéderm, Restylane, or Versa, some or all of your filler can be dissolved if you are not completely satisfied with your results. Treatment to dissolve dermal fillers involves injections of Vitrase, an enzyme that helps to dissolve the hyaluronic acid filler, and is performed at additional cost to the patient.
Can I Receive Filler and tox at the Same Time?
Yes. Dermal fillers and Tox treatment can be administered during the same office visit. Because each product works differently in the skin, the two can be a powerful combination to achieve beautiful, natural-looking rejuvenation and anti-aging results.
Are There Any Side Effects to Dermal Fillers?
The side effects of dermal filler treatment are typically limited to mild, transient redness and swelling at injection sites. Minor bruising may also be noticed, but this is less common. Some patients may notice prolonged swelling or the formation of lumps or bumps beneath their skin after treatment. If these side effects occur, please contact our office. We will schedule a visit or instruct you on what to do to handle your particular situation.
Are There Any Risks to Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are generally safe but as with any treatment, there are potential side effects. Risks include but are not limited to swelling, firmness, lumps, pain, redness, bruising, itching and vascular compromise. These side effects occur in less than 1% of patients. Talk to your Clinician about any medications you are taking as these can increase the risk of bleeding or infection. Fillers are especially safe when you choose a trained professional from Med 1 Aesthetics to treat you.