What are Dermal Fillers?

What are Dermal Fillers?

While you can’t stop the aging process, there are simple, affordable and safe treatments that can help you look and feel younger and less tired. If you are noticing facial volume loss or fine lines and wrinkles, dermal fillers are a perfect option for achieving a refreshed look. Just a few injections provides immediate results, which has made this treatment increasingly popular.

What are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are gels that are injected under the skin to restore volume loss and fill deeper wrinkles and folds for a more youthful look. Dermal fillers are also used to enhance facial features such as the cheeks, lips, and jawline. Most dermal fillers are temporary, consisting of hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxyapatite.  The treatment takes approximately 30 minutes, and the results are instant.  There is no downtime, although it can take up to two weeks for the fillers to settle in.

How Do They Work?

Dermal filler treatment is a simple and effective way to freshen up your appearance, while providing a natural look . As you age, your underlying facial structure begins to break down while the skin loses collagen and elastin. The effects of this process are most noticeable around the cheeks, under eyes, mouth, and jawline. Dermal fillers restore volume to the face and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. You can expect a more youthful, refreshed look without having to undergo surgery.

How Long Do Treatments Last?

The lasting effects of fillers depends on the type of product that is used. There are three main types of dermal fillers: hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxyapatite, and collagen. Because hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in the skin, these fillers are very well tolerated, lasting 6 to 12 months.  Calcium and collagen based products tend to last longer, and can be effective from one to five years.

Are There Side Effects?

One of the main advantages of dermal fillers is that they do not require an invasive procedure, significantly reducing the risk of complications.  Most dermal fillers contain lidocaine, a localized pain reliever, which increases patient comfort throughout the treatment. The most common side effects associated with dermal filler treatment are slight redness, swelling, or bruising.  These effects are temporary, and patients are able to resume most normal activities immediately after treatment.

What Are the Benefits?

Although the aging process continues, you can use technology to restore a more youthful appearance so that you look and feel your absolute best. It is a great way to give yourself a confidence boost, and celebrate your natural beauty.  In addition, dermal fillers have been shown to jumpstart the body’s natural production of collagen. Using fillers may actually help slow the aging process and keep you looking younger, longer.

Before you undergo any cosmetic injection, you will consult with an APT’s medical director who will document your medical history and answer all of your questions. Our highly experienced  nurse injectors and expert staff will help guide you, and provide all the information you need to make the right decision about your health and wellness.