Cosmetic Dermal Fillers: What, Why, and How

We’ve all been there. You wake up in the morning, stumble over to look in the mirror, and ask, “Where did that wrinkle come from?!” We can thank gravity and aging for that. However, we can also thank science for creating a product designed to reverse and slow signs of aging! Throughout history, humans have experimented with different ways to help us look younger. Enter cosmetic dermal fillers! In this article, I will address some of the most common questions concerning fillers, and hopefully clear up some of the confusion surrounding the procedure.

What causes facial sagging and wrinkling?
As we age, our face experiences a loss of bone as well as a loss of fat tissue. Additionally, our facial muscles decrease in elasticity, as does our skin. Our bodies reduce the production of hyaluronic acid and collagen (the connective tissue that plumps the skin). This causes our face to sag, and our skin to wrinkle. Think of it like a deflated balloon.

How can filler help?
Fillers help restore that lost volume, like reinflating a balloon. Juvederm fillers contain hyaluronic acid (HA) which is a naturally occurring substance in our skin. It plays a major role in keeping skin hydrated and volumized. It stimulates the production of collagen. So not only do these fillers restore volume, they also help keep the skin hydrated! Keeping your skin hydrated is one of the most important things you can do to slow the signs of aging. One of the main benefits of HA fillers, aside from their natural appearance when injected, is that they can be dissolved by a special solution in case of an adverse event, or if the person dislikes the appearance.

What is the difference between the Juvederm Fillers?
There are five different types of Juvederm fillers: Juvederm Voluma XC, Juvederm XC, Juvederm Vollure XC, Juvederm Ultra XC, and Juvederm Volbella XC. Clients ask me all the time about the differences between these products. Different formulations are used depending on the area to be treated and the desired results. We would discuss this during your consultation, and I would make my recommendation based off of my assessment. The main difference between each product is their viscosity and elasticity. Elasticity refers to how the filler is able to retain its shape when pressure is applied. Viscosity refers to the flow of a filler and how spreadable it is. A filler with a higher viscosity will be firmer, providing more volume and lift. A filler with lower viscosity will be softer, conforming to the underlying tissue, thus yielding subtler results. These fillers can last from six months to two years before being gradually absorbed by the body.

What is the treatment like?
During the procedure, the injector will use a pen to mark the areas to be treated. They will then inject the filler into the targeted area, and lightly massage the area to ensure an even distribution and reduce swelling. The procedure typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes. Juvederm products contain lidocaine, a numbing agent, to maximize comfort during treatment. That’s what the XC stands for: extra comfort!

What are the potential side effects?
Juvederm filler is one of the most common cosmetic procedures in the U.S. The FDA approved Juvederm in 2006, and it is very safe. No procedure is risk-free, however, and there are a few common, temporary side effects.

Common side effects include:

• Bruising
• Redness
• Swelling
• Pain
• Tenderness
• Itching
• Rash
• Lumpiness

These side effects typically resolve in a few days to a few weeks.

Who can inject fillers?
When considering dermal fillers, be sure to select a healthcare professional who is trained to perform these injections. Prior to treatment, ask your healthcare provider about their training and experience injecting dermal fillers. Having filler injected should be considered a medical procedure, not a cosmetic treatment.

I’ve addressed some of the more common questions concerning dermal fillers, but are there other questions you’d like to ask? Is filler right for you? Schedule an appointment with me and I will happily address your questions and concerns!