Aging, injuries, fat loss, sun damage and certain health issues can all wreak havoc on your skin. If volume loss, deep lines and wrinkles, scarring or tear troughs and undereye hollows are concerns for you, there are a variety of Dermal Fillers available on today’s market that can work wonders. They can even be used to contour your jawline and chin or make aging hands appear more youthful.
Created with substances ranging from hyaluronic acid (HA) to platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) derived from your own blood, they offer options for fuller, more hydrated skin. Dermal fillers are a safer choice than most cosmetic procedures – and hyaluronic acid and PRF are considered the saftest, most natural way to go. HA dermal fillers have the added benefit of being fully reversible.
Envision yourself with plumper, fresher, younger-looking skin that looks completely natural. To learn more about Dermal Fillers - or any of the latest aesthetic treatments offered at Balanced Health & Wellness, contact us online or call ☎ (631) 600-7950 to schedule your initial consultation.
Dermal Fillers are injectable substances that are designed to add volume to the skin. This allows them to “fill” in depressions – like under-eye hollows or deep creases in the skin (e.g., nasolabial folds). They instantly plump skin and smooth wrinkles. Some dermal fillers even stimulate collagen and elastin production. Hyaluronic (HA) fillers are especially good at attracting and retaining moisture in your skin thereby enhancing hydration.
Dermal Fillers are used to treat a vast array of aesthetic concerns. Most commonly, they are used for treatment of wrinkles, volume loss and contouring. They can even rejuvenate the appearance of aging hands. Popular uses include plumping cheeks and lips, addressing tear troughs and under-eye hollows, filling in nasolabial folds and contouring the jawline and chin.
Dermal Fillers are a nonsurgical, minimally invasive treatment. Benefits of treatment involving the use of Dermal Fillers include:
There are several different types of Dermal Fillers available, with variable properties and duration of effect. Dermal Fillers are generally typed according to the substance that is primarily used in formulating the filler, including:
| FILLER | DURATION | PROPERTIES |
| Hyaluronic Acid (HA) |
Temporary 6 to 12 months or longer |
Instantly visible results and stimulates new collagen |
|
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found within the human body. Hyaluronic acid is produced by bacteria and purified for use as injectable soft tissue filler in many HA-based dermal fillers. Already found in your skin, it helps keep skin hydrated and plump-looking. Dermal Fillers are typically soft and gel-like and bring results that are temporary, lasting 6 to 12 months or longer, before the body gradually absorbs the particles. Most HA fillers are infused with lidocaine to help minimize discomfort during and after treatment. Revance’s Dermal Fillers are a popular choice, including their RHA collection: RHA 2, RHA 3, and RHA 4. Revanesse Versa and Revanesse Lips are other in-demand HA Dermal Fillers. |
| Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA) | Long-lasting More than 2 years |
Stimulates collagen production |
|
Both biodegradable and biocompatible, PLLA Dermal Fillers are made from synthetic substances utilized for decades now in medical devices like dissolvable stitches. Poly-L-lactic acid products are classified as collagen stimulators because their main mechanism to smooth fine lines is by helping your skin rebuild natural collagen. The filler gel itself dissipates within days after treatment. Poly-L-lactic acid is typically used to treat deep facial wrinkles, with results lasting more than 2 years. Sculptra is a well-known brand of PLLA Dermal Filler. |
| Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) | Long-lasting 1 to 2 years |
Used for facial contouring, deeper lines and wrinkles and new collagen growth |
|
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is typically used for deeper lines and wrinkles as well as facial contouring. Calcium hydroxylapatite is another naturally occurring substance, found primarily in your bones. When used in Dermal Fillers, the calcium particles are suspended in a smooth gel and nearly microscopic. The consistency of a CaHA fillers is thicker than HA fillers. They typically last longer, often 12 months or longer for most patients. Calcium Hydroxylapatite is reported to help stimulate natural collagen production. Radiesse is a popular CaHA filler. |
| Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) | Indefinite | Contains collagen |
|
PMMA is a synthetic, biocompatible substance in medical use over the last century. As a Dermal Filler, PMMA takes the form of a tiny ball or “microsphere” that remains beneath the skin indefinitely to provide continued support. PMMA fillers contain collagen. Bellafill is a well-known PMMA Dermal Filler. |
| Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) | Lasts 6 to 12 months |
All natural, non-allergenic Collagen-stimulating |
|
PRF Dermal Fillers are a type of autologous, or all-natural, filler made from your own blood. It is created by processing your blood to separate and heat the plasma, creating a gel-like substance. Composed of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and albumin, this completely natural bio-filler is used for both medical and cosmetic treatments, including wrinkle or scar reduction and skin volume concerns. Because it is derived from the patient's own blood, it minimizes the risk of allergic reactions. PRF EZ Gel is the PRF Dermal Filler we utilize. PRF can also be combined with certain synthetic fillers for enhanced results. |
Dermal Filler injection procedures involve cleansing the treatment area, applying a topical anesthetic (if desired), injecting the filler, and massaging the area to distribute the filler evenly. You may experience mild swelling, redness, and bruising after treatment, which typically resolves within a few days. The procedure will vary according to the Dermal Filler used. The process for PRF, for instance, is different than the process for an HA filler.
We use only the most effective dermal fillers and may combine their use with other dermal fillers or with various treatments that complement their effects. Your treatment plan will be customized to meet your individual aesthetic needs.
No anesthesia is necessary prior to these injections, as lidocaine is generally included in the injections or can be added in. While most fillers contain lidocaine, some practitioners may still apply a topical numbing cream for added comfort.
To minimize bruising and bleeding during and after your procedure, for at least a week prior to your injection, it’s important to avoid the following:
Depending on the filler used, it’s usually recommended that you also avoid:
Taking Arnica supplements a few days before your treatment is sometimes recommended to help to minimize bruising. Antihistamines can be taken daily for a week prior to your appointment to reduce the amount of swelling. Both can be continued after your appointment to expedite healing. Also, it’s important that you are well-hydrated so drink plenty of water. Hydration is key.
Inform us about any medications you are taking and disclose any allergies you may have.
It is recommended that you avoid laying down or engaging in excessive physical activity after treatment. It is also recommended that you avoid rubbing or massaging the area treated - and do not apply makeup or other topical products other than something mild like Vaseline or aquaphor. The most important thing is to follow your doctor's specific instructions carefully, including avoiding strenuous activity, sun exposure, and alcohol immediately after treatment. Sleeping elevated the first night may be recommended to prevent swelling. Otherwise, there is no downtime, and you can return to normal daily activities immediately after treatment.
Injectable dermal fillers are less invasive than cosmetic surgery, but they are still not without risk. However, if you have certain allergies (e.g., to stainless steel), have hemostatic (bleeding) dysfunction, anemia, cancer, or blood clotting disorders, all Injections may be contraindicated. If you have sores, irritated skin in the treatment area, or open wounds, treatment will be delayed until these skin issues are resolved. Also, if you are pregnant or nursing or taking certain medications, we will also need to delay treatment.
We will discuss all of your safety concerns at our first session, after looking at your medical history and any specific risk factors in your case, before proceeding with treatment.
A Dermal Fillers session typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes and can be done during a lunch break. Your initial consultation may take longer as we will require extra time to complete your medical history.
Before your first session, we always take a medical history and review any medications, supplements or herbal medications you’re taking, as well as assess any particular allergies, contraindications or medical needs you may have.
These injections will be administered in our offices. At Balanced Health & Wellness, we offer traditional injection techniques. During your session, the injection site will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, then a small needle will be used to inject the Dermal Filler into your treatment area.
Most people experience little to no discomfort.
These Injections have minimal side effects if any. Possible side effects include temporary soreness at the injection site, redness, swelling or bruising, all of which typically resolve within hours or a couple of weeks at most. Some patients experience no side effects at all.
Results vary among individuals. You may see a difference immediately after treatment. Certain Dermal Fillers instantly add volume, with the full effect becoming apparent once the injection site fully heals within two to four weeks.
A single injection can bring results that last six months to years, but results can vary depending on individual differences and the Dermal Filler used.
At your initial consultation, we will take a full medical history and determine together with you if you would be a good candidate for these types of injections.
Neeta Mitchell, RN is a highly skilled nurse injector at Balanced Health and Wellness, dedicated to delivering exceptional aesthetic and wellness treatments. With extensive training and a commitment to ongoing education, she continually hones her expertise to provide the safest, most effective results for her clients. Neeta’s passion for precision and patient care ensures a personalized approach, helping clients achieve natural, beautiful outcomes with confidence.
Begin your journey to fuller, younger, fresh looking skin today! Call ☎ (631) 600-7950 or contact us online for your first session.
