Dermal fillers are a popular cosmetic treatment option that can be used to enhance the appearance of the face by adding volume and smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines. These injectable treatments can be used to plump up the lips, enhance cheekbones, and improve the appearance of the jawline, neck, and hands.
Dermal fillers are made from a variety of different substances, including hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and poly-L-lactic acid.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are the most commonly used, as they are well-tolerated by the body and can provide natural-looking results. They can be used to add volume to the cheeks, smooth out wrinkles and lines, and enhance the lips. Some examples of popular HA fillers include:
- Juvederm: This is a popular HA filler that is used to add volume to the cheeks, lips, and jawline, and to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It is also used to hydrate the skin and improve skin elasticity.
- Restylane: This is another popular HA filler that is used to add volume to the cheeks, lips, and jawline, and to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It is also used to hydrate the skin and improve skin elasticity.
- Belotero: This is a HA filler that is used to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines on the face, particularly on the lips and around the eyes. It is also used to enhance the lips and add volume to the cheeks and jawline.
- Teosyal: This is a HA filler that is used to add volume to the cheeks, jawline, and temples, and to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It is also used to hydrate the skin and improve skin elasticity.
Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers are also used for facial contouring and wrinkle correction. They are denser than hyaluronic acid fillers and are often used to add volume to the cheeks and jawline. They can provide long-lasting results but may require more touch-up treatments than other types of fillers. Some examples of popular CaHA fillers include:
- Radiesse: This is one of the most well-known CaHA fillers on the market. It is used to add volume to the cheeks and jawline, and to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It can also be used to enhance the back of the hands.
- Sculptra: This is another popular CaHA filler that is used to add volume to the cheeks and jawline, and to improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It is also used to stimulate collagen production, which can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin.
- Bellafill: This is a long-lasting filler that is used to add volume to the cheeks and jawline, and to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It is also used to improve the appearance of acne scars.
- Belotero Balance: This filler is specifically designed for fine lines and wrinkles and is injected superficially into the skin. It can be used to smooth out wrinkles around the eyes and mouth, as well as to enhance the lips.
Poly-L-lactic acid fillers are a newer type of filler that is used to stimulate collagen production in the skin. This can help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as enhance the cheeks and jawline. These fillers can provide long-lasting results, but may require more touch-up treatments than other types of fillers. They are made from a synthetic, biocompatible polymer that is similar to a substance found naturally in the body. Some examples of popular PLLA fillers include:
- Sculptra Aesthetic: This is one of the most well-known PLLA fillers on the market. It is used to add volume to the cheeks and jawline, and to improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It is also used to stimulate collagen production, which can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin.
- NewFill: This is another popular PLLA filler that is used to add volume to the cheeks, jawline, and temples, and to improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It is also used to stimulate collagen production, which can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin.
- Radiesse Volumizing Filler: This is a PLLA filler that is used to add volume to the cheeks and jawline, and to improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It is also used to stimulate collagen production, which can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin.
- Ellanse: It is a synthetic, biodegradable filler that is used to add volume to the face and to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. It is also used to stimulate collagen production, which can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin.
The treatment process for dermal fillers is relatively simple. First, the face is cleaned and a numbing cream may be applied to reduce discomfort. Then, the filler is injected into the desired area using a fine needle. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour and the results are immediate. Dermal filler treatments, while generally considered safe, can come with some associated risks. Here are some specific risks to be aware of:
- Bruising and swelling: These are the most common side effects of dermal filler treatments. They usually go away within a few days but in some cases, it can last a bit longer.
- Infection: Although rare, dermal filler treatments can lead to an infection at the injection site. This can happen if the skin is not properly cleaned before the treatment or if the injector is not properly trained.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to the filler material. This can cause redness, itching, and rash around the injection site.
- Lumps and bumps: In some cases, lumps or bumps may form after a dermal filler treatment. These can be caused by the filler being injected too close to the surface of the skin or by uneven distribution of the filler.
- Numbness or tingling: Some people may experience numbness or tingling around the injection site after a dermal filler treatment. This is usually temporary but in rare cases, it can be permanent.
- Asymmetry: In some cases, the filler may be injected unevenly, leading to asymmetry in the treated area.
- Embolism: If the filler is injected into a blood vessel, it can block blood flow, potentially leading to an embolism. This can cause serious complications such as skin necrosis, blindness, and stroke,
- Migration of filler: In rare cases, the filler can migrate from the injection site to other areas of the face or body. This can cause lumps, bumps, and unevenness in the treated area.
- It's important to note that as with all dermal fillers, it's important to consult with a qualified and experienced healthcare professional to discuss the best treatment options for your individual needs and goals. Furthermore, these fillers are not FDA-approved for all indications, so it is important to be aware of the risks and benefits of each product and the specific indications they have been cleared for.
Author
David J. Bauder, PA-C
David Bauder, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant and the assistant medical director at Weight Loss and Vitality in Manassas and Alexandria, Virginia, Washington, DC; and Gaithersburg, MD. He enjoys helping patients optimize their physical and mental health to improve their overall well-being.
He earned his physician assistant degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Afterward, he gained admission into the reputable graduate program for physician assistant studies at the University of Nebraska Health Science Center in Omaha.
David has over 26 years of experience working as a physician assistant. He’s practiced in podiatry, family medicine, emergency medicine, general surgery, urgent care, and functional medicine.
