Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to add volume and smooth out wrinkles in the skin. They are a popular non-surgical treatment option for facial rejuvenation, as they can help to restore a more youthful appearance to the face. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about dermal fillers, including how they work, the different types available, how long they last, and the potential risks and side effects.

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected into the skin to add volume and smooth out wrinkles and folds. They are made of various substances, including hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the skin that helps to keep it hydrated and plump. Dermal fillers made with hyaluronic acid are often the most popular choice, as they are well tolerated by the body and have a natural-looking result.

Calcium hydroxylapatite is a synthetic substance that is similar to the minerals found in our bones. It is a long-lasting filler that is often used to add volume to the cheeks and chin.

Poly-L-lactic acid is a synthetic substance that stimulates collagen production in the skin. It is a longer-lasting filler that is often used to treat deeper wrinkles and folds.

PMMA is a synthetic filler that is used to add structure and support to the skin. It is a long-lasting filler that is often used to treat deeper wrinkles and folds.

How do dermal fillers work?

Dermal fillers work by adding volume to the skin, which helps to smooth out wrinkles and folds. When injected into the skin, the filler creates a support structure that lifts and plumps the skin, giving it a more youthful appearance.

Dermal fillers are injected using a fine needle or cannula (a thin, flexible tube). The procedure is typically performed in a doctor’s office or clinic and takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete.

The procedure is relatively painless, as most dermal fillers contain a local anesthetic to numb the injection site. However, some people may experience mild discomfort or swelling at the injection site.

Types of dermal fillers

There are several different types of dermal fillers Boston available, each with its own unique properties and indications.

Hyaluronic acid fillers

Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most popular type of dermal fillers. They are made of a naturally occurring substance found in the skin, which helps to keep it hydrated and plump. These fillers are well tolerated by the body and have a natural-looking result.

Examples of hyaluronic acid fillers include:

• Juvederm: This is a smooth, gel-like filler that is used to add volume to the cheeks, lips, and nasolabial folds (wrinkles between the nose and mouth). It is a medium-lasting filler that typically lasts for six to nine months.
• Restylane: This is a smooth, gel-like filler that is used to add volume to the cheeks, lips, and nasolabial folds. It is a medium-lasting filler that typically lasts for six to nine months.
• Belotero: This is a thin, smooth filler that is used to treat fine lines and wrinkles. It is a short-lasting filler that typically lasts for three to six months.

Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers are synthetic substances that are similar to the minerals found in our bones. They are a long-lasting filler that is often used to add volume to the cheeks and chin. Examples of calcium hydroxylapatite fillers include Radiesse and Sculptra.

Poly-L-lactic acid fillers

Poly-L-lactic acid fillers are synthetic substances that stimulate collagen production in the skin. They are a longer-lasting filler that is often used to treat deeper wrinkles and folds. An example of a poly-L-lactic acid filler is Sculptra.

PMMA fillers

PMMA fillers are synthetic substances that are used to add structure and support to the skin. They are a long-lasting filler that is often used to treat deeper wrinkles and folds. An example of a PMMA filler is Bellafill.

How long do dermal fillers last?

The duration of dermal fillers varies depending on the type of filler used and the area being treated.

Hyaluronic acid fillers typically last for six to nine months.

Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers typically last for one to two years.

Poly-L-lactic acid fillers typically last for two to three years.

PMMA fillers are the longest-lasting type of dermal fillers, with results lasting for several years.

It is important to note that the duration of dermal fillers can vary from person to person, as everyone’s body metabolizes the filler differently. In general, the duration of dermal fillers can be extended by getting touch-up treatments when the filler starts to break down.

Risks and side effects of dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are generally safe and effective when performed by a qualified healthcare provider. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects to consider.

Common side effects of dermal fillers include:

• Swelling at the injection site
• Bruising at the injection site
• Redness at the injection site
• Pain or discomfort at the injection site

These side effects are typically mild and resolve within a few days.

Less common but more serious risks and side effects of dermal fillers include:

• Infection at the injection site
• Allergic reaction to the filler
• Scarring at the injection site
• Asymmetry (unevenness) in the treated area
• Lumps or bumps under the skin

It is important to discuss the potential risks and side effects of dermal fillers with your healthcare provider before getting the procedure.

Conclusion

Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to add volume and smooth out wrinkles in the skin. They are a popular non-surgical treatment option for facial rejuvenation, as they can help to restore a more youthful appearance to the face. There are several different types of dermal fillers available, including hyaluronic acid fillers, calcium hydroxylapatite fillers, poly-L-lactic acid fillers, and PMMA fillers. The duration of dermal fillers varies depending on the type of filler used and the area being treated, with some lasting for several years and others lasting for only a few months. Dermal fillers are generally safe and effective when performed by a qualified healthcare provider, but there are potential risks and side effects to consider. It is important to discuss the potential risks and side effects of dermal fillers with your healthcare provider before getting the procedure.