Dermal Fillers

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable gel-like substances used to treat a wide range of cosmetic issues in the face and hands, including diminished volume, fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. Several different companies make fillers, and each has its own unique formulations, which are useful for treating distinct problems in separate areas of the face.

By placing fillers in certain areas of the face, we can contour and create the visage you’ve always dreamed of. Over time, dermal fillers are slowly absorbed by the body and most last anywhere from 9 to 24 months before needing a touch-up.

Fillers vs. Botox

Dermal fillers and botox are both minimally invasive, injectable cosmetic treatments. Both are performed as outpatient procedures in the comfort of your doctor’s office and require minimal downtime. While both can improve the overall appearance of the face, they achieve this in different ways.

Botox is primarily used to treat fine lines and wrinkles. It is a purified form of the botulinum toxin, and is a safe, FDA-approved treatment that has been used for several decades now.

Botox works by blocking nerve signals to the muscles that contract and cause fine lines around the eyes, forehead, and mouth, also known as expression lines. By blocking the nerve signals, muscles in the injection site become temporarily paralyzed, thus softening or eliminating wrinkles from the area. These results can last between three and five months, and the treatment takes about five minutes to complete.

Dermal fillers, on the other hand, are primarily used to rejuvenate the appearance by restoring structure and balance to various areas of the face. Fillers can be made with varying ingredients, including:

Hyaluronic acid, such as JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®, and Belotero®

Calcium hydroxylapatite, such as RADIESSE®

Each of these fillers is designed to treat certain kinds of aging or other cosmetic issues. Depending on which one is used, they can last anywhere from 9 to 24 months. On average, treatment takes approximately 45-60 minutes.

Are Filler Injections Painful?

Usually, no. The only discomfort you should feel during the procedure is the initial pinch from the injection, but topical numbing cream before the procedure will minimize this sensation. Additionally, most fillers contain a local anesthetic, which reduces discomfort, and you may notice some numbness in the treated area for a few hours.

How Long Do Fillers Last?

How long a filler lasts depends on which filler is used and where is is placed in the face. Some fillers, such as Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® Ultra, last for approximately 12 months before a touch up is needed. RADIESSE® typically lasts about 15 months, and JUVÉDERM VOLUMA™ can last for up to two years.

Are Fillers Reversible?

Yes, most dermal fillers can be reversed. Those made of hyaluronic acid (HA), such as JUVÉDERM® and Restylane® can be dissolved with an injection of Hylenex®, which is kept in the office.