Dermal fillers or soft tissue fillers, are injectable substances used to restore volume and fullness to various areas of the face. They are primarily used for cosmetic purposes to address signs of aging, such as wrinkles, lines, and loss of facial volume.
Fillers are typically made of various substances, including hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers are the most common and widely used. The type of filler used depends on the area of the face being treated as some area require more "robust/strong" filler such as a cheek and some areas, such as the lips require a softer filler for a more natural look + feel.
When injected into the skin, fillers add volume and plumpness to the treated area, which can smooth out wrinkles and lines, enhance facial contours, and restore youthful facial features. They can be used to address different areas, including the lips, cheeks (midface), nasolabial folds (lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth), and marionette lines (lines extending from the corners of the mouth downward).
The effects of fillers are temporary, as the body gradually absorbs the injected material over time. The duration of results can vary depending on the type of filler used, the treated area, and individual factors. Typically, the effects of hyaluronic acid-based fillers last between 6 to 12 + months, while other types may have longer-lasting effects.
Like any medical procedure, there are risks involved, including the potential for infection, allergic reactions, bruising, or lumps in the treated area. Prior to treatment, a consultation is conducted to discuss the desired outcomes and potential risks or side effects associated with the procedure.
