Your Guide To Injectable Fillers
You may know the big names in injectable treatments like Botox and Juvederm, but did you know that developments in skincare technology have expanded to not only provide immediate volume, but also stimulate collagen? Learn all about your options for non-surgical facial rejuvenation in our guide to fillers.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are a class of gel-like substances made from various active ingredients that are FDA-approved to be injected into the skin at various depths. There are solutions to smooth the look of deep facial lines, restore lost volume, and enhance facial contours. All injectable fillers are temporary, but some are more long-lasting than others, depending on the amount injected and where it is injected, as well as the person’s metabolic rate.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
The most common and well-known filler ingredient is hyaluronic acid. This is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that binds with water molecules to help skin stay plump, hydrated, and smooth. Fillers formulated with HA can be many different consistencies, which is why you’ll see so many specific brand names under a given company, like Juvederm or Restylane.
Hyaluronic acid fillers typically last between six and 12 months before needing to be re-applied.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid Filler
Poly-L-lactic acid is a synthetic substance that is safe for injection into the human body and has been used for many years. They work differently than HA fillers as their goal is not to plump skin for a volumizing effect, but rather to stimulate collagen production for results that can last as long as two years or more. The FDA-approved brand of poly-L-lactic acid filler is Sculptra Aesthetic.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
Calcium Hydroxylapatite occurs naturally in the body, mostly in the bones, and works as a dermal filler with a combination approach that blends HA fillers and poly-L-lactic acid fillers. This substance does provide temporary filling benefits, lasting nearly 12 months, but also has been reported to stimulate collagen production before it’s metabolized. Radiesse is a popular CaHA filler on the market today.
Fat Transfer
For more permanent results, patients can opt for a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves taking fat from one area of the body and re-injecting it in to a problem area in the face. This is a much longer-lasting technique for facial rejuvenation when volume needs to be added, but does require a board-certified plastic surgeon to perform it.
What Filler Do I Need?
The filler that’s right for your specific concern depends on what area of the face you’re hoping to address. Thicker, more supportive formulas like Juvederm Voluma work to add natural-looking volume in areas that may have lost it over the years. Fillers for lip augmentation should be smooth and silky, with formulas like Juvederm and Juvederm Volbella often being used. Restylane and Juvederm both can be used to fill out wrinkles around the mouth, between the nose and chin, and under the eyes.
The best way to know which filler can help you is to consult with a dermatologist expert who can examine your facial features and problem areas and prescribe a specific filler for your unique needs.
Injectable Fillers in Chicago, IL
At the center for dermatology and aesthetic medicine, our board-certified dermatologists are specialists and experienced aesthetic medicine experts. With years of daily injection experience, Dr. Kalimullah and Dr. Cavanaugh tailor every treatment to the needs of the individual, focusing on holistic enhancement and satisfaction. To meet our doctors, schedule a consultation by contacting us online or calling our downtown location today.
