Dermal Fillers
Overview
The injection of a “filler material” into the skin is an office-based procedure that treats various types of aging facial features. Fillers are used to soften and sometimes eliminate creases, enhance contours, and fill in unattractive lines.
Who is a candidate?
Adults over the age of 20 are candidates for this form of rejuvenation. The procedure takes 15 to 20 minutes to perform and, following a detailed consultation with the physician, can be performed during the initial visit.
Before the procedure
Your plastic surgeon will perform a detailed analysis of your face and the desired area of rejuvenation. You should speak with your prescribing physician regarding the use of blood thinners. These medications can cause bruising and swelling.
Procedure details
In the office, the part of your body that will be receiving the filler will be anesthetized or numbed with topical agents as well as the possible injection of a local anesthesia. Once the area is numbed, the various fillers will be placed into the areas of concern.
Types of fillers
There are a variety of synthetic and natural fillers that are available for use. Your surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of all materials and which one might be right for you.
Where will the procedure be performed?
The procedure will be done in the plastic surgeon’s office.
Type of anesthesia
Topical anesthesia can be performed or your plastic surgeon may wish to inject a nerve blocking agent to “numb” a specific area of your face.
Immediate recovery
Most patients can go out in public that day. In most cases, bruising is minimal.
Risks
The risks of the procedure are minimal and can include bruising, bleeding, infection, and asymmetry. Not every person is a candidate for this procedure, and your risks may be greater or different than those of other patients. Your plastic surgeon will review all potential risks and complications with you prior to the procedure.
Anticipated results
Dermal filling agents usually result in an improvement and enhancement in the area(s) that are treated. There may be a softening or elimination of a crease, filling of a line or wrinkle, enhancement of the lips, or increasing the prominence of the cheek or chin.