Fillers have a bad rap! Unfortunately, when most of us think of fillers, the first thing that comes to our minds is oversized, unnatural-looking lips and overfilled chipmunk cheeks.
In actuality, dermal fillers are the secret to giving you a glowing aura. Fillers are a great option for patients who are not ready or willing to undergo invasive surgical intervention but still want to achieve a more youthful appearance. In fact, instant results, quick treatment, and little to no downtime are just some of the reasons dermal fillers are a popular option!
Okay, but what exactly do dermal fillers help to fix?
Dermal fillers often contain hyaluronic acid - a naturally occuring substance found within the body, and other ingredients to add fullness to areas that have thinned due to aging. Thinning is common in the cheeks, lips, and around the mouth. The gel-like substances are injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines and soften creases, or enhance facial contours.
There are various types of FDA-approved dermal fillers on the market, and each is used to treat specific conditions or specific areas of the face or body. Because they have been refined and finessed over the years, there are various types based on thickness and consistency.
FDA-approved dermal fillers are designed to accomplish the following:
Market competition within this booming cosmetic category has inspired the development of numerous technologies aimed at producing the most natural, beneficial, and permanent results possible. With such a diverse selection of dermal fillers available today, patients have the best opportunity yet for achieving the naturally ageless look they want. Let’s take a look at a few of the biggest names in dermal fillers and the science behind them.
Juvederm is a family of hyaluronic acid-based fillers and is one of the most well-known names in this category of cosmetic injectables. As one of the first FDA-approved dermal fillers to become available, it has become a go-to product for a variety of uses, including the enhancement of facial features such as the lips and cheeks, volume restoration throughout the face, and static wrinkle reduction. Juvederm is known for its long-lasting effects, with the results of some formulas lasting as long as two years.
Each Juvederm formula is specially formulated using an advanced bonding technology referred to as cross-linking that allows for molecules of varying sizes to be linked together at different lengths. By manipulating the structure of the formulas in this way, Juvederm successfully imitates natural tissue’s texture and flexibility for seamless results in virtually any area of the face.
Like Juvederm, Restylane fillers offer a hyaluronic acid base and promote skin cell rejuvenation. Also similar to Juvederm, Restylane offers specialized formulas with varying particle sizes and unique molecular bonding. These carefully designed products deliver volume enhancement and supple rejuvenation in the face and hands with precision and efficacy.
Radiesse is a calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA)-based dermal filler that is used to effectively treat deeper lines and folds than its HA-based counterparts. CaHA is a substance that naturally exists within our bones, allowing for thicker derma fillers. As a thicker injectable implant, results from Radiesse generally last longer than other fillers. Radiesse also provides ongoing improvement to the skin by improving natural collagen production within the body.
Sculptra takes yet another approach to dermal filler formulation, utilizing Poly-L-lactic acid to rejuvenate the skin. Poly-L-lactic acid is classified as a collagen stimulator and has been used for medical purposes for years. When injected, Sculptra dramatically boosts collagen, producing natural rejuvenation before dissolving just a few days later. Like Radiesse, it is used to treat deep wrinkles and delivers long-lasting results.
Bellafill uses polymethylmethacrylate (or PPMA) and collagen to create a biocompatible dermal filler. It is composed of microspheres to achieve indefinite volume, structure, and firmness in the skin. PPMA has also been used for medical purposes for decades, offering time-tested safety and longevity.
Rather than synthetic dermal filler ingredients, facial fat grafting involves liposuctioning fat from a donor area of the body for injection into the face. This all-natural approach to volume enhancement produces results that last years and is commonly used in areas such as the temples, lower eyelids, or cheeks.
Which types of dermal fillers will be best for your needs depends on how they will be used for different purposes and anatomical features. Using the appropriate filler and injecting it correctly makes all the difference.
While the primary function of fillers is to create volume, they can be used in a variety of ways. Fillers can provide hydration, stimulate collagen growth, improve the skin’s texture, correct asymmetries in the face, and contour the face, leaving you with a subtle natural radiance.
Dermal fillers can contour the cheekbone and create a stronger projection of the chin and jawline. They can also soften and smooth enhancements to the lips for a supple-looking appearance. They can even be applied to the temple hallows to compliment the eyes!
You may be asking yourself, “How can filler have so many functions? How is this possible?” Fillers are used to manipulate the light and shadows of the face to improve and restore a more youthful appearance.
Based upon your aesthetic goals and concerning areas, your skilled provider will determine which filler is appropriate for you and achieve your aesthetic goals.
Our luxury concierge practice is committed to providing aesthetic solutions to those in the Palm Beach community seeking ageless beauty and confidence. Your experience at Troiano Facial Plastics will be one that nurtures, restores and revives your self-image.
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