About Dermal Fillers
What are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are polysaccharide gels of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar-type substance found in all connective tissue, including the tissue of the face that loses volume with the ageing process. Fillers are injected under the skin to provide contour and shape, or directly within the skin to fill and smooth lines, wrinkles and furrows. This is a non-surgical treatment. Because these molecules are part of the normal make up of human cells, they are not recognized by the body as foreign. This means that they are generally very well tolerated and do not require a skin test. After injection, the hyaluronic acid gels occupy space and absorb normal fluid within the body, allowing them to expand and improve the appearance of volume loss, lines, and wrinkles. Fillers are very different from Botox, which works - not by filling - but by relaxing over-used facial muscles to soften lines and wrinkles. Botox and fillers are often used together as part of a treatment plan in order to achieve the best result. The hyaluronic acid gels used at Refined Medspa are Juvéderm products.
What is the procedure for treatment with Dermal Fillers?
The medical professionals at Refined Medspa begin with a thorough history and physical examination. During this time, they will discuss the areas of concern to you.
The area to be treated will have a topical local anesthetic applied in order to make the procedure more comfortable. When the anesthetic has had time to take effect (approximately 20 minutes) the filler can be injected. In general, most medical-based aesthetic interventions, such as fillers, fractional laser resurfacing, laser hair removal, Botox, or even chemical peels have a very modest degree of discomfort; most patients tolerate them well. In addition to the topical anesthetic, there is local anesthetic in the fillers we use at Refined Medspa, in order to minimize - as much as possible - any discomfort. A gentle technique can also help to limit any swelling or bruising. We suggest allowing an hour for your consultation and treatment. There is no significant downtime, and most patients return to work the next day.
Who is a candidate for Dermal Fillers?
Anyone over the age of 18 with frown lines or wrinkles that they find unattractive may be excellent candidates for fillers. They can also be used to improve the appearance of depressed scars, and to address the loss of facial volume in order to restore or maintain a youthful appearance. It is also important to be realistic about what can be achieved with fillers. Fillers are often used in a complimentary fashion with Botox. Similarly to Botox, you should not receive fillers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How long will it take to see results after Dermal Fillers?
Unlike Botox, results can be seen immediately with fillers, and over time they will absorb fluid to enhance your treatment. Lines and wrinkles are greatly improved and volume and shaping can be quite remarkable. Great care is taken to achieve a natural result.
How long is the recovery following Dermal Fillers?
The recovery following the injection of dermal fillers varies depending on the patient, the amount and kind of filler used, and the location of the injection. Patient factors, such as prior use of aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories will also affect recovery time. In general, there is a modest degree of swelling following filler injection. Ice and cold compresses will be applied at Refined Medspa to help with the swelling. It is recommended that two to three hours of cold compresses be applied at home as well.
One of the most common side effects that can occur is bruising. It is important to know that avoiding aspirin-based products or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories three weeks prior to the injection technique will diminish the risk of bruising. In addition, many patients find that Arnica Montana and Bromelain, which can be bought from a natural foods store, can also diminish the risk of excessive bruising. If bruising occurs, camouflage makeup can be applied immediately. In general, if four or more syringes are used it is recommended that the patient allows two days for the swelling to subside prior to returning to work.
How long do Dermal Fillers last?
How long your fillers last will depend on the type and amount of filler used, and the area treated. The results are long lasting – often up to a year or more – and the esthetic results can be very subtle and natural. The professionals at Refined Medspa aim to provide a subtle but significant natural restoration of youth and beauty.
How much do Dermal Fillers cost?
The cost of dermal fillers depends on the amount of product used. You will be provided with an on-the-spot quote of what the cost would be for your personalized filler treatment during your consultation.
What risks or complications may be associated with Dermal Fillers?
All medical procedures have some degree of risk and the possibility of complications. Fortunately, when performed by qualified medical professionals, these complications are very rare.
It is possible to develop an allergy to fillers. Perhaps the most important (although rare) risk with fillers is embolization. This occurs when the product enters a blood vessel, and interferes with blood flow to the area beyond the blockage. This can cause an ulcer on the skin. Medical professionals are trained to watch for signs so that this can be treated promptly if it occurs. It is important to realize that fillers have their limitations too. Fillers can certainly help to restore a youthful appearance, but treatment will not make you look 20 years younger.
The qualified and professional medical team at Refined Medspa will thoroughly explain any possible risks during your initial consultation.
What do I do after treatment with Dermal Fillers?
Following your treatment:
Use Tylenol as necessary for tenderness, and arnica gel for redness / swelling
Prevent infection by keeping the skin clean – especially for the first 48 hours
Wait 6 hours before applying makeup, and do so gently
Avoid excessive rubbing or manipulation of the skin
Aspirin, alcohol, and heavy exercise are permitted after 24 hours
Do not press on the treated area for the first few days, and try to sleep on your back
For at least 2 weeks after treatment, avoid prolonged exposure to either hot (e.g. hot tub) or cold (e.g. skiing) temperatures and prolonged sun exposure