What is a dermal filler?
Most of the visible signs of aging we see can be linked back to loss of volume in the face. As we age, the loss of collagen and subcutaneous fat we all experience results in thinner skin that causes that “tired” or “hollow” look we all try our hardest to avoid. At PS Dermatology & Surgery, we offer dermal filler injections as an option to address loss of volume, excessive wrinkles, or sharpen and define their own natural features. Some of the most common areas treated with fillers are the lips, jawline, cheeks, and temples, to name a few.
What is dermal filler treatment used for?
Dermal fillers come in many shapes and sizes. The most common formulation of fillers that we see are Hyaluronic Acid based. These products are typically injected into areas like the lips, cheeks, tear troughs, nasolabial folds, and temples to “plump” the area or fill in unwanted facial folds. Another type of filler – Sculptra®, a poly-L-lactic acid product, is used to activate the skin’s natural regenerative process to help replenish lost collagen and reverse the signs of facial fat loss, also known as lipoatrophy. Sculptra® is typically injected in the temples, midface, and lower face. We are familiar and comfortable with both on and off-label indications, and perform these injections regularly. The individual product chosen will depend on the desired result and the area being treated.
When will I see results?
Results from your dermal filler injections can be seen pretty much immediately, with the exception of Sculptra® (results are seen about 2 months post-procedure). It is normal to have some redness and swelling at the injection site, which typically subsides in 24-48 hours. Applying ice to the area will relieve the discomfort post-procedure. It is important to avoid excessive alcohol consumption and blood thinning over-the-counter medications such as Aspirin, Motrin, Aleve, and fish oil supplements before your treatment as these can increase the chances of bruising.
What is the cost?
Pricing for dermal fillers completely depends on the product as well as the amount that is used. More often than not, significant results can be achieved with a conservative amount of product. During your consultation, Dr. Parth Patel will determine what dermal filler is best for you to achieve the desired look. From there, pricing will be discussed – this is completely customized to every patient and their needs. It is important to reiterate that unusually low pricing for dermal fillers can be a red flag, as pricing is typically standard across the board at most offices. Our providers will try to incorporate the patient’s individual financial situation into the equation to come up with a fair treatment plan.
Is there anything else I should be aware of?
The most critical part of any dermal filler treatment is being at the hands of an experienced injector. We are proud to have a Board Certifid Dermatologist such as Dr. Parth Patel at our practice who has extensive experience with dermal filler injections. It is pivotal that when you decide to be treated with dermal fillers, you go to an experienced injector. If you see dermal fillers advertised for a “too good to be true” price, more often than not it is. There are so many things that can go wrong after being injected by someone who is not certified, such as infection, an allergic reaction, or even death of skin cells. Hyaluronic Acid fillers are reversible by use of hyaluronidase (a substance injected in the same spot as the filler to dissolve the product), however, to completely avoid this situation it is important to have dermal fillers injected by a reputable provider. Despite the numerous products and techniques available for injection, the best outcome is dependent on the injector performing the treatment.
Do the injections hurt?
Most patients experience mild discomfort. We are experts in minimal pain injections through various modalities.
Is there downtime?
There is minimal downtime for dermal filler injections. The most a patient may experience is mild swelling and possibly some bruising.
How long will the results last?
This depends on how much product you receive, which product was used, and your individual metabolism. Hyaluronic Acid based fillers typically last around 6-12 months, and Sculptra® around 12-18 months.