Losing volume in our faces is a natural part of aging. The breakdown of collagen, elastin and fat leads to deep wrinkles and skin laxity, while a lifetime of facial movement wears down the bone structure of the cheeks, jawline and eye socket. Dermal fillers add volume to many areas of the face, making them a great nonsurgical option for filling in wrinkles or as a temporary, non-surgical alternative to implants.

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are FDA-approved injections that help to restore volume and reduce the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles, especially those that are not well treated with Botulinum. Many are made from substances found or mimicked in the body. There are many types and brands to choose from.

Restylane and Juvederm are FDA-approved dermal fillers composed of hyaluronic acid, a material that is already present in our skin. They are both used for moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. Various formulations of both Restylane and Juvederm have been developed for special use in particular parts of the face.

Radiesse is an FDA-approved dermal filler composed of calcium hydroxylapatite within a water-based gel. It is thicker than the hyaluronic acid fillers, which makes it more useful for deeper injections that simulate adding bone volume (like the cheeks, chin, or bridge of the nose). Studies show that Radiesse stimulates the natural production of collagen in the skin.

What can dermal fillers do?

• Plump up thin lips
• Fill in deep facial creases, such as laugh lines, marionette lines, and frown lines
• Reduce dark circles and undereye bags
• Project a recessed chin
• Add volume to hollow cheeks
• Work as a temporary, nonsurgical alternative to rhinoplasty
  

How are dermal fillers administered?

Dermal fillers are a quick in-office procedure. First, the skin is cleansed and anesthesia (usually a combination of topical numbing cream and ice) is applied. Depending on the area, either very small needles or blunt cannulas are used. The injections are administered in a matter of minutes.

How long do the results last?

You can expect your results to last between 6 -15 months depending on the type and location of the filler. Unlike botulinum injections, the results are visible right away.

Are there any side effects?

Most people have little-to-no downtime after treatment. Temporary redness and/or swelling at the injection site is common but resolves quickly. As with any injection, bruising is also a possibility. Some areas, like the under-eye, potentially bruise more than others.

Are fillers safe?

Dermal filler injections have been used for decades for cosmetic purposes without serious or long-term side effects. The risk of cosmetically disturbing results like an unnatural look or skin necrosis is minimized with a skilled injector who has extensive knowledge of facial anatomy.

What is the difference between fillers and botulinum injections?

Botulinum injections (like Botox or Dysport) are used to relax muscles that deepen wrinkles. Botulinum is best used on dynamic wrinkles in the upper face so as to not affect natural facial expressions. It has no volumizing effect. To the contrary, dermal fillers are used to add volume to deep static wrinkles and hollow areas, primarily in the lower part of the face. Fillers have no muscle-relaxing effect. The images below show a few before & after examples of what fillers can do.