Posted on May 4, 2023

Are you considering dermal fillers to achieve a more youthful appearance? 

As we age, our skin loses elasticity and begins to sag, leading to wrinkles and fine lines. Dermal fillers are a popular cosmetic treatment that can help combat these signs of aging, restoring a smoother and more youthful appearance to the skin. 

In this guide, we'll cover the basics of dermal fillers, including what they are, their types, how they work, and what you can expect from the treatment.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable cosmetic treatments that are used to plump up and add volume to areas of the face that have lost volume over time. They can be used to treat a variety of concerns, including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Hollow or sunken cheeks
• Thin lips
• Nasolabial folds (the lines that run from the corners of the nose to the corners of the mouth)
• Marionette lines (the lines that run from the corners of the mouth to the chin)

Dermal fillers are made from a variety of substances, including hyaluronic acid (HA), calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), and poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Each of these substances works in a slightly different way to restore volume to the skin.

How Do Dermal Fillers Work?

Dermal fillers work by adding volume to the skin in the areas where they are injected. They do this by filling in the space between the skin and the underlying tissues, plumping up the skin and smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines.

The effects of dermal fillers are immediate, and you can expect to see a noticeable improvement in the appearance of your skin right after the treatment. The results of dermal fillers can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the type of filler used and the area of the face that is treated.

Types of Dermal Fillers

As mentioned earlier, dermal fillers are made from different substances that work in various ways to achieve a more youthful appearance. 

Here are some of the most common types of dermal fillers:

• Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are the most popular type of dermal filler. HA is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps keep the skin plump and hydrated. When used as a dermal filler, HA can smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, as well as add volume to the cheeks and lips.
• Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers: These fillers are made from tiny particles of a mineral found in bones and teeth. When injected into the skin, these particles stimulate the body's natural production of collagen, which helps to fill in wrinkles and add volume to the skin.
• Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers: These fillers work by stimulating the body's production of collagen. Over time, the filler is absorbed by the body, leaving behind a network of collagen fibers that help to restore volume to the skin.
• Polymethylmethacrylate Fillers: Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fillers are made from tiny beads suspended in a gel-like substance. When injected into the skin, the beads stimulate the body's natural production of collagen, helping to fill in wrinkles and add volume to the skin.

What Can You Expect During a Dermal Filler Treatment?

Before your dermal filler treatment, your provider will conduct a consultation to discuss your goals and determine the best treatment plan for you. During the treatment itself, a topical numbing cream may be applied to the treatment area to minimize any discomfort.

The dermal filler will then be injected into the targeted area using a fine needle. The number of injections needed will depend on the size and location of the treatment area, but most treatments can be completed in under 30 minutes.

After the treatment, you may experience some mild swelling or bruising, but these side effects typically resolve within a few days. You can return to your normal activities immediately after the treatment, although you should avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours.

How Long Will Dermal Fillers Last?

The duration of dermal fillers varies depending on the type of filler used and the area of the face that is treated. Generally, fillers made from hyaluronic acid (HA) last six to 12 months, while fillers made from calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) can last up to two years.

Factors that can affect the longevity of dermal fillers include: 

• the location of the treatment
• the amount of filler used
• the individual's metabolism

Your provider can give you a better idea of how long you can expect your dermal filler treatment to last based on your specific circumstances.

Related: How Long Will Botox Last? (And How to Extend Results)

Conclusion

Dermal fillers are a safe and effective way to achieve a more youthful appearance, restoring volume to areas of the face that have lost volume over time. They are a non-surgical option that can produce natural-looking results with little to no downtime.

If you're interested in dermal fillers, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified provider to discuss your goals and determine the best treatment plan for you. 

At Hourglass Med Aesthetics, we specialize in providing safe and effective cosmetic treatments, including dermal fillers, to help our clients feel confident and rejuvenated. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards achieving your desired look!