WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE GETTING DERMAL FILLERS

Having youthful, smooth and plump skin becomes increasingly difficult to accomplish as we age. In fact, most people turn to their dermatologists and beauty therapists in an effort to battle the signs of aging. Although there are many different cosmetic procedures and treatments available, dermal fillers have proven to be highly effective in both reducing premature skin aging and increasing volume and elasticity of the skin.

WHAT ARE DERMAL FILLERS?

Dermal filler is a gel-like substance that comes in the form of injectables and is typically made of hyaluronic acid. This powerful acid which adds volume to our skin is naturally found in our bodies, but its production slows down as we age. For this reason, hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers are the most common types to be found on the market and even though there are different brands and lines of fillers available, Juvederm and Restylane dermal fillers, both belonging to the HA family, are among the most popular ones. Dermal fillers are used to smooth wrinkles and deep-set lines, as well as to restore volume to certain areas of your face, such as around the eyes, nose, mouth, cheeks, and jawline. Once injected, hyaluronic acid binds with water and keeps the skin and surrounding tissues hydrated and moisturized, thus adding volume to the entire area and improving its overall appearance. Due to their ability to restore lost volume and provide plumper and more youthful appearance, dermal fillers were first used to combat the signs of aging, but today they are often used to enhance, enlarge or reshape certain areas of the face.

WHICH AREAS CAN BE TREATED?

Apart from using dermal fillers to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, they can also be used to increase volume, change shape, or improve the appearance of other parts of your face. Dermal fillers can be injected into the jawline or chin area to enhance them and provide more definition. They can also be used to lift and accentuate the cheeks and reduce crow’s feet around the eyes. Moreover, they are often used to reshape and plump the lips.  A type of dermal filler that will be used, as well as the depth at which it will be injected, depends on a patient’s individual needs and the result they want to achieve. Firm dermal fillers injected deeper into the tissue are used for reshaping and adding volume, medium-firm fillers injected at medium depth are ideal for getting rid of deep lines and creases, while soft fillers which are injected into the top layer of the skin can smooth unwanted wrinkles and plump the skin.

WHEN CAN YOU EXPECT TO SEE THE RESULTS?

With hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers, the results are immediate and the effect can be seen right away. However, they need some time to fully settle into place, as well as to start binding with water, so it can sometimes take a few weeks for a patient to be able to see the full effect. In case a patient is not satisfied with the result, dermal fillers can be easily broken down with hyaluronidase, a substance that enables the body to dissolve and metabolize them at a great speed.

HOW LONG DO DERMAL FILLERS LAST?

There are various factors that affect the amount of time dermal fillers may last. Besides the type of dermal filler used, the speed at which the body metabolizes the filler is individual. In addition, fillers can last longer if they are injected into an area that is not moved around a lot, such as the cheek area. Even though dermal fillers are usually temporary and last around a year, there are several things you can do to make them last longer. First of all, you should avoid extensive sun exposure, since sun damage increases the speed at which dermal filler breaks down. Furthermore, use topical products that contain hyaluronic acid as well as products and supplements that will help you keep your skin healthy and hydrated. Also, getting enough sleep and making sure you eat healthily and drink plenty of water will significantly improve the appearance of your skin.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

Although dermal fillers are usually well-tolerated, there are some mild to moderate side effects that can appear after the treatment, but rarely last longer than a couple of days. The most common side effects might include temporary redness and tenderness of the skin, mild bruising and swelling of the treated area, or the development of small nodules and bumps under the skin. Also, the treatment is painless and causes minimal discomfort, which makes it possible for the patients to resume their regular routine immediately.

CONCLUSION

Dermal fillers are the perfect choice for anyone looking to reduce the signs of aging, minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and creases, tackle the loss of volume and elasticity, as well as reshape certain areas of the face. However, it is essential to consult a qualified doctor with vast experience in the field of aesthetic dermatology for achieving the best results.