Overview
The injection of a “filler material” into the skin is commonly used to decrease signs of aging.
Fillers are used to:
- Soften and sometimes eliminate creases
- Enhance contours
- Fill in unattractive lines
Common areas of treatment include:
- Nasolabial folds
- Lips
- Marionette lines
- Frown lines
- Smoker’s lines
- Around the jowls
- Dark circles under the eyes
Larger amounts of fillers can be used to increase volume in the cheeks or temples.
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. Some patients with severe wrinkles may be better candidates for a facelift/necklift and /or fat injections.
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. Some last longer than others, but may require multiple treatments and may be relatively expensive.
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
- 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.
