Fillers

Latest update: July 14, 2024
Medically reviewed by: Jennifer Trent MD, FAAD

Details

Whether it’s combating the signs of aging, repairing depressions caused by scarring, or rejuvenating regions of the face, neck, décolletage, or hands, dermal fillers could be an appropriate treatment.

The procedures involve the injection of gel-like filler substances beneath the skin. Doing so restores volume resulting in smoother, younger-looking, wrinkle-free skin. This makes them different from Botox and other neuromodulators, which block nerve signals, preventing muscle movement and limiting expression.

There are various kinds of fillers, and they are categorized according to their ingredients.

Hyaluronic Acid is a substance that occurs naturally in the body. It improves skin elasticity, reduces wrinkling, and has been proven to help skin heal faster. It also helps to keep the skin hydrated.

Fillers made from Hyaluronic Acid include Juvederm, Belotero, and Restylane. The results are temporary (6 – 24 months) as the body will absorb the substance. These fillers are particularly effective when treating scars, facial wrinkling, Marionette lines, smile lines, Cheeks, temples, jawlines, and furrows on the face. These are the most popular fillers because the results are reversible by dissolving the filler with hyaluronidase. 

Poly-L lactic acid  (Sculptra) is a man-made biostimulator that stimulates collagen production. The substance is harmless and biodegradable. Sculptra is most effective on laughter lines, temples, and cheeks. Results are noticeable after about 6 weeks. About three treatments are required, and the results can last over two years.

Polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) (Bellafill) is a non-toxic, man-made substance. Fillers made from PMMA are considered semi-permanent. These fillers consist of PMMA microspheres suspended in bovine collagen. The effects can last up to 5 years. One or two treatments are normally required.

Fat obtained from the patient during liposuction can also be used as a facial filler. The results can last several years.The type of filler used depends on the treatment area and the goals of the treatment. Softer fillers are preferentially used in the lips, while denser fillers add shape to the cheekbones.
Anesthesia
topical
Operation Time
1
Inpatient Period
n/a
Number of Appointments
1
Recovery Period
1-2 days
Invasiveness
minimal

Juvederm Ultra Injection to Laugh Lines

Dr. Naderi performs a filler treatment on a volunteer patient. He explains the symptoms that he is trying to correct and talks about the impact of age. He discusses other options to correct the named issues. Dr. Naderi demonstrates the procedure on the patient and talks about the differences between Juvederm and other fillers. He describes his technique as he performs the steps. Will we be able to see a difference directly after the treatment?

Filling and Smoothing out Smile Lines

Ashley, a nurse faculty member at the AAFE, performs a filler treatment on Julia. The purpose of this treatment is to fill and smooth out smile lines / the nasolabial folds of Julia’s face. Ashley explains why she will be using Juvederm Ultra. She explains the steps as she performs the procedures. Will Julia be happy with the results?