FACIAL FILLERS

As we age, the natural subcutaneous fat in the face tends to atrophy, or shrink. This loss of facial volume may result in a hollowed look under the eyes (tear trough deformity), prominent facial creases and wrinkles, and thinner lips. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers such as Restylane Juvederm, Perlane, and Belotero, and non-HA fillers such as Radiesse, are used to enhance areas of the face that have been affected by volume loss and smooth out prominent facial creases and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in the dermis, the skin layer just below the epidermis.  Another minimally invasive option for volume enhancement is fat grafting, whereby fat is harvested from your belly or thigh fat and injected into the face to restore lost volume. 

Our doctors will discuss their assessment with you during your visit and go over the different options for volume enhancement. Some common areas that often benefit from dermal fillers are:

  • Hollowed lower eyelids (Lower eyelid bags or tear trough deformity)
  • Nasolabial folds (laugh lines)
  • Marionette lines
  • Lip lines and wrinkles
  • Lip enhancement

THE PROCEDURE

Dermal filler injection is performed in the office and takes about 30 minutes. There is no downtime- patients can resume regular activities immediately. A topical numbing cream or ice may be used prior to the procedure for comfort. Mild bruising, swelling, and discomfort may occur after the procedure and usually resolves after a few days. Results are noticeable immediately, but are optimal in a few days when the swelling has resolved. The duration of a filler  depends on the area of the face that was treated and the type of filler used. The average duration is 6-9 months. The duration can increase after each injection, sometimes lasting as long as 12-18 months.