Fillers are soft, gel-like substances that are injected underneath the skin. They help in restoring the lost volume of the shallow areas of the face, like cheeks, temples, under the eyes, etc. They also soften the lines and creases making the skin smooth and younger-looking.
Filler treatment is quite popular in the cosmetic industry. It is the second most commonly performed non-invasive cosmetic treatment performed worldwide, the first being Botox.
Several different types of dermal fillers are available among which Hyaluronic acid fillers, or HA fillers, are the most popular and commonly used.
Hyaluronic acid is a slippery, glue-like substance that is naturally found in our skin. Its function is to lock the moisture and keep the skin smooth, flexible, and hydrated.
How Do HA Fillers Work?
When HA dermal fillers are inoculated under the skin, it attracts water and binds with it adding volume to the skin. In this way, along with keeping the skin moisturized, it provides fullness to the hollow and volume-deficient areas of the face.
Besides, HA fillers also stimulate the skin cells to produce more collagen, which is the chief protein responsible for providing strength, tone, and elasticity to the skin. The increased amount of collagen fades away lines and wrinkles and makes the skin smooth and younger-looking.
What is Different HA Fillers Available?
FDA has approved the following different brands of HA fillers for skin treatment, each having unique features and applications:
- Juvederm: Juvéderm XC, Ultra, Ultra Plus, Vollure, Volbella, Voluma and Volux
- Restylane: Restylane Silk, Restylane Lyft, Restylane Refyne, Restylane Defyne, Restylane Kysse, Restylane Contour
- Revanessa versa
- Belotero Balance
- Revance’s RHA collection: RHA 2, 3, and 4
What are the Uses of HA Fillers?
Dermal fillers are a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment that is being used for various purposes as listed below:
- To fade away signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles
- To add fullness to volume-deficient areas of the face, e.g. cheeks, temples, under-eye hollows, etc
- To plum up lips
- For sculpting the jawline and chin
- To treat under-eye bags and saggy skin
- To treat acne scars
- To improve the skin tone and texture of aging hands – etc
How is Dermal or Lip Filler Treatment Done?
Dermal or lip filler is a simple and short office procedure with zero downtime and a short recovery period. You can expect the following things before, during, and after the procedure;
Before the Treatment
During your initial consultation, your doctor will examine you, evaluate your concerns, and decides which type of filler will be best suitable for you. You may be asked about your medical and allergic history. The doctor will then brief you about the treatment procedure, its benefits, expected results, and potential side effects.
During Filler Treatment
Before administering the filler injections, the area will be cleaned using a disinfectant. Then a topical anesthetic agent will be used to numb the area so you do not feel any pain during the procedure.
After that, the doctor will then strategically inject filler in specific areas and at specific depths of the skin using a small cannula or fine needles. You may experience slight discomfort, swelling, and bruising at the injection sites.
After the Treatment
After the treatment, you are allowed to go home and continue your daily activities. You may experience slight discomfort, swelling, and bruising at the injection sites for a couple of days, but it is quite normal. It will resolve within a few days. Your doctor may prescribe you painkillers and antibiotics for that purpose.
For how long do the Results Last?
The results of HA filler treatment are not permanent. The longevity of the results varies from person to person, and also on the type of filler used. Usually, the results last for 6 to 12 months after which you need a repeat treatment to maintain the desired effects.
Are there any Side Effects of HA Filler Treatment?
HA fillers are quite safe and the risks of side effects are minimal. However, some mild and short-term side effects can be expected as listed below:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Bruising
- Itching
- Mild pain
- Rash – etc
Other rare and serious side effects may include:
- Infection
- Facial muscles weakness
- Numbness
- Drooping of eyebrow or eyelid
- Diplopia, or double vision
- Formation of skin nodules
- Displacement of filler from its desired location
- Facial asymmetry – etc
These side effects are quite rare when performed by a skilled and experienced doctor under proper aseptic measures.
VIP Plastic Surgery
We, at VIP Plastic Surgery, are a team of highly-skilled and certified doctors and trained staff that will provide you with the best of care. We are providing facilities for various cosmetic treatments using the latest techniques and state-of-the-art technology.