Facial fillers treat several cosmetic issues, including facial wrinkles and sagging skin. As a result, this helps you achieve a more youthful appearance. Here is everything you need to know about facial fillers.
Facial fillers are a cosmetic treatment that can help improve the appearance of one’s face and neck. There are five available facial filler solutions: autologous fat injections (fat grafting), poly(methyl methacrylate), polylactic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and hyaluronic acid. Take a dive into the details below.
There are two types of autologous fat injections: micro fat grafting and macro fat grafting. Micro fat grafting involves injecting small amounts of purified fat harvested from other areas of the patient’s body — such as the thighs, hips, or stomach — into deep dermal layers of the face. As a result, the body will gradually reabsorb it over time. Macro fat grafting involves injecting larger amounts of purified fat into subcutaneous layers of skin, where it will remain until reabsorption occurs over time.
PMMA, also sold under the trade name Bellafil®, is a synthetic material that the body cannot absorb. Unlike its alternatives, reinjections are unnecessary. The doctor will likely not recommend this form for first-timers but for those who have undergone a number of facial filler appointments.
Polylactic acid, or “PLA,” is a biodegradable polymer (a large molecule consisting of many smaller molecules). That means it can be made into different shapes and sizes. This facial filler type is newer than its counterparts and often seen as an alternative to Botox®, another cosmetic treatment.
CaHA is a naturally occurring mineral derived from apatite, commonly found in bones. The doctor injects the filler into the dermis layer of the face. From there, the substance acts as a scaffold for new collagen production.
HA is one of the most common substances used in cosmetic procedures. This is because it is the most abundant molecule in the skin and is found in all connective tissue. In addition, HA is a natural component of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which is a structural framework for cells to adhere to and migrate across. HA is also known for its ability to hold water molecules, thus playing an important role in maintaining skin hydration.
Facial fillers offer numerous benefits, the obvious being aesthetic enhancements. But how does it enhance one’s face? No matter the type of facial filler a patient undergoes, injecting the substance into their skin will add volume, making it appear fuller and more youthful. Specifically, facial fillers can help with the following conditions:
Wrinkles (fine and deep)
Skin folds
Smile lines
Fat loss
Acne scars
Facial contouring
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved facial fillers for those over the age of 22 and even those experiencing fat loss from diseases such as AIDS.
Patients also choose facial fillers as their cosmetic treatment option because of their minimally invasive nature and limited side effects. Injecting facial filler is an outpatient procedure — the patient will be able to return to their normal activities the same day. Patients can expect slight bruising and mild pain (an over-the-counter pain reliever can treat) up to a week after their appointment. Only one appointment may be necessary depending on the facial filler the doctor recommends; for others, two or three appointments are necessary. The results can last for up to three years.
We require all our patients to attend an initial consultation. During the consultation, patients will have the opportunity to discuss their concerns regarding their appearance and goals for treatment. Our doctor will review the patient’s medical history, focusing mainly on medical conditions that can affect the treatment outcome, such as allergies and autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Patients will then undergo an examination of the face so the doctor may determine where the filler is needed to be most effective. The doctor will also note if other treatments, such as Botox, must be used with facial fillers to help accomplish the patient’s goals.
Facial fillers are safe and effective. Our team can help you achieve a younger and more refreshed appearance with the help of one of the five types of facial filler. Book a consultation today!
If you are considering this treatment and want more information, we invite you to call our Schaumburg office at (847) 429-3185 today. We look forward to speaking with you.
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