Dermal Fillers

As you get older, your body is no longer able to produce collagen and elastin—two proteins that are necessary to support and volumize the skin. Hyaluronic acid fillers can replace that loss directly while biostimulator fillers stimulate your body to produce more collagen on its own. Sometimes, this also helps reduce wrinkles, thin lips, sagging skin, and more. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy a more youthful look, giving more structure and volume to your face.

Candidates

Optimal candidates for dermal filler treatments are women and men over the age of 21 who want to correct external symptoms of facial aging. Dermal fillers can play an important role in de-aging the face and achieving a more youthful appearance without having to resort to surgery.

Candidates should be in good health, have realistic expectations of the procedure, and be non-smokers. They should also be committed to following all instructions provided by our healthcare providers and to a proper skincare routine. A thorough consultation is essential to determine whether you are a candidate for dermal fillers or not, and you will also be advised as to which dermal filler and how much dermal filler is most suitable for your needs and goals at this time.

How Dermal Fillers Work

Dermal fillers work by injecting gel-like substances of either synthetic or natural origin into areas lacking volume. Most fillers use hyaluronic acid to directly add volume, while biostimulating fillers stimulate your skin to grow its own new collagen to replace what’s been lost. As they are injected, dermal fillers will add volume to your skin and revitalize its appearance, diminishing wrinkles, fine lines, and areas of hollowing.

There are various types of dermal fillers and at OHMI Medical Group, we provide the following:

• RADIESSE®: This dermal filler contains calcium hydroxylapatite, which is a naturally occurring substance in your bones. The filler adds volume to your skin while stimulating your body into creating its own collagen. It is used for deep wrinkles and folds. 
• BELOTERO BALANCE®: This is a hyaluronic acid filler and its small molecule formula spreads easily through the skin. It is efficient for stubborn fine lines.
• JUVÉDERM® VOLUMA™ XC: This is also a hyaluronic acid filler and is mostly used for treating aging signs on the midface. It can also offer a contouring effect for those who lost volume in their cheeks. 
• JUVÉDERM® Ultra: This hyaluronic acid filler is used for adding extra volume to the lips or filling moderate facial wrinkles around your mouth and nose. 

JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus: It’s also a hyaluronic acid filler and is used for a dramatic effect and deeper wrinkles.

Each patient has different needs—so, if you require special treatment, we do offer other products. Schedule a consultation to check with our medical providers to see which products might work best for your needs.

Recovery

Depending on the location and volume treated, recovery from dermal fillers can last for up to one week. Patients can resume most daily activities right away, as the technique only involves a few injections. Symptoms during recovery will include temporary swelling, slight bruising, soreness, redness, or numbness.

Most symptoms can be alleviated with a cold compress, but you should avoid using it for two to three hours after the treatment. If there is pain associated with dermal fillers, you may take anti-inflammatory pain medication to alleviate it.

It is usually advised to avoid exercising for about 24 to 48 hours after getting the treatment performed to prevent too much bruising or swelling. Also, no matter what filler you use, it is important that you refrain from touching your face after getting the injection unless specifically instructed to do so by your healthcare provider. This will prevent the filler from moving where it is not supposed to. Moreover, you shouldn’t sleep on your side either, as this may also cause the dermal filler to move. Sleep on your back instead.

Results

Depending on the fillers used, results may appear immediately or within two to three weeks after the injection. If a substance such as JUVÉDERM® is injected, then your skin will become smoother and plumper immediately. That being said, it usually takes about two weeks and up to two months until the dermal filler “settles” and you see the final results.

Keep in mind that the results are not permanent because the dermal filler will eventually be eliminated by your lymphatic system. The effects will vary depending on the filler used, and the area and amount injected; they can last for as little as six months and as long as two years.

For example, RADIESSE® can last for 15 months until it is eliminated from your system. On the other hand, JUVÉDERM® can last for as long as 18 months. Most medical providers recommend you go for a touch-up treatment once half the maximum time has passed.