You see dermal fillers everywhere. Celebrities are plumping cheeks and lips. Increasingly, your friends and neighbors are also showing off their younger-looking, fresh faces.
Dermal fillers reduce or eliminate lines and wrinkles on the face. Some people use them to plump and define the lips, cheeks, or to fill out hollow areas on the face. In some cases, they reduce the visibility of severe facial scarring. Dermal fillers can also eliminate minor insecurities and create a more youthful appearance.
At the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, we want to ensure you’re reading accurate material. It’s important that you understand the benefits and the drawbacks of fillers.
There are two main aspects to dermal fillers: the artistic side and the scientific side. The best dermatologists know exactly how to blend the art and science of dermal fillers. They know exactly where to place them in each unique face and which filler to use to achieve optimal results.
Read on to learn more about dermal fillers and why experience is crucial when selecting a doctor.
Types of Dermal Fillers
There are several different types of dermal fillers. The most common types are:
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Polyalkylimide
- Polylactic Acid
- Polymethyl-mathacrylate microspheres (PMMA)
Dermal fillers differ in chemical makeup, longevity and have varying degrees of softness. Dermatologists use softer fillers in the lips and sturdier products for cheekbone enhancement.
At the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, we only use FDA approved facial fillers. There are many on the market, but not all of them have been rigorously tested and researched. We know exactly what we’re using — and how to do so.
Are They Safe?
Severe complications from dermal fillers are uncommon. Risks and side effects of facial fillers vary depending on the specific type of filler used for treatment. Your dermatologist will explain in detail the known side effects and risks.
Some side effects include:
- An overfilled appearance to treated areas
- Swelling or bruising
- Temporary redness or numbness
- Lumps or hard areas in the injection sites
- Hypersensitivity
Icing and massage will provide relief for side effects experienced immediately following treatment. However, these side effects will continue to improve within a few days. Your doctor will go over detailed post-treatment care with you at your appointment.
Who Can Get Dermal Fillers?
You are a good candidate for dermal fillers if you are:
- Healthy
- A non-smoker
- Have realistic treatment goals
- Maintain good skin health
How Long do They Last?
The longevity of dermal fillers differs from patient to patient. It also depends on the type of filler used and the injection technique utilized by the doctor. Some fillers last four to six months, while thicker products will last around six to nine months.
It’s important to discuss maintenance with your dermatologist. If you’re getting the fillers for a special event, such as a wedding, maintenance is less important. However, if you plan to maintain the fillers, you’ll want to discuss frequency of your appointments and cost.
Is it Painful?
Pain also varies patient to patient. Some people have a high pain tolerance, while others are more sensitive. We use a topical anesthetic, if desired, to promote patient comfort during injection.
How Long Will it Take to Recover?
Recovery time varies for each patient. We recommend no strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours following treatment; however, you may resume normal activities almost immediately. This recommendation will minimize swelling and bruising, as well as prevent migration. Your doctor will be able to discuss a specific recovery plan with you.
Dermatology Center for Skin Health | Facial Fillers Morgantown WV
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO FIND AN EXPERT?
Many salons and spas offer dermal filler treatments. They may cost less, but you don’t have a guarantee that the “expert” has experience or is adequately trained. You also can’t be certain that they are using quality filler products.
These “experts” at most salons and day spas hold a certificate earned at a basic weekend training. Wouldn’t you rather have your fillers injected by a medical doctor who has been through medical school, residency and has years of experience?
It is extremely important that a licensed medical professional performs dermal fillers. At the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, our physicians perform all fillers. Drs. Maouad and Gharib have extensive experience with a variety of dermal fillers. Their experience reduces the risk of side effects and increases patient satisfaction with proper product recommendations and placement.
If you’d like to book a consultation with the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, give us a call at (304) 598-3888. We can discuss your dermal filler options in a completely confidential, no-obligation appointment.
For a more in-depth look at other cosmetic procedures we perform, download our Guide to Cosmetic Procedures. We discuss chemical peels, Botox, microdermabrasion and more.
