Soft tissue fillers are injectable, purified substances that can improve the appearance of wrinkles and laugh lines or accentuate the lips. They can be used to fill in the volume loss of the cheeks, around the eyes, mouth, jaw-line, brow and other areas, which occurs naturally with age. Fillers also can be used to elevate depressed scars and address irregular facial contours and facial asymmetries. Use of fillers can achieve a smoother and significantly more youthful appearance. Patients can undergo filler procedures without significant interruption to work or daily activities, with typical recovery periods of only 3-5 days. The list of available fillers is rapidly expanding, enabling dermatologists to tailor the filler material to the individual`s needs and desires.
What are Restylane® and Juvederm® composed of?
Restylane® and Juvederm® are hyaluronic acid fillers. Hyaluronic acid is a complex sugar molecule, a naturally occurring gel-like substance in the connective of the skin. Its moldable nature and tendency to expand in the presence of water make it an excellent filling substance for the skin. Hyaluronic acid fillers work especially well in the lips, smile and frown lines and hollows of the eyes. Hyaluronic acid fillers can last 4-12 months depending on filler selection and location of placement.
What are the risks of filler injections?
The use of soft tissue fillers is generally considered to be safe and effective when carried out by a knowledgeable, experienced practitioner. When you are electing to undergo any procedure, including the injection of filler, you should familiarize yourself with the associated risks. The risk profile differs somewhat, based on which filler is selected and the injection site.
Possible risks and complications include bleeding, pain, bruising, swelling, redness, infection, allergic reactions, formation of nodules under the skin, migration of injected material, cold sores, permanent scarring, blurry vision and blindness. Inform your doctor of any history of cold sores prior to obtaining filler in the lips.
What can I expect after my filler procedure?
There may be some mild discomfort of the injected area for a day or so after filler injection. Bruising can be covered with make-up and usually resolves within 7-10 days. Swelling of the injected areas can occur for 2-4 days after injection. Swelling is more pronounced with the hyaluronic acid-based fillers, particularly in the lips.
The use of fillers for facial rejuvenation can greatly enhance an individual`s healthy and youthful appearance. Consult your dermatologist to help you determine which filler product would be most appropriate for you.