CANDIDATES FOR DERMAL FILLERS
The best candidates are people between 25-55 years with visible depressions, deep nasal, and labial folds, asymmetries, small and deep wrinkles around the eyes, forehead, cheeks, and nose. Another use for dermal fillers is for lip plumping. You are not a good candidate if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or bruise easily.
BEFORE THE PROCEDURE
Dermal fillers require an exam, where we analyze and evaluated your skin condition and desired outcome. We will have to know a complete history of any allergies, previous surgeries and illness (if any), medications you are currently taking. Some medications and supplements are prohibited to use one week prior to injection of dermal fillers (Excedrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Advil, Vitamin E).
DURING THE PROCEDURE
Dermal fillers are injected in micro-channels on your skin to fill in wrinkles and lines (or to plump your lips). Dermal fillers can be hyaluronic acid based such as Restylane and Juvederm; or calcium hydroxylapatite base such as Radiesse; and other less safe fillers such as silicone.
Juvederm and Restylane can last anywhere between 4 to 8 months. They start working right away after the procedure but desired result may be visible after 3-7 days since it may take up to a week to heal i.e. to soothe the swelling. Radiesse is long-lasting filler that may last up to 2 years. This product is very popular for many patients with deep wrinkles around the mouth and smile lines.
COMPLICATIONS
Complications are rare and they mostly stem from swelling and bruising that passes within a few days. Allergic reactions to the foreign body are very rare, as well as the creation of lumps.
POST-TREATMENT
Dermal fillers do not require special post-treatment. Use cold packs and topical ointments with swelling. It is important to avoid exercise and consumption of some medications and supplements first few days after the procedure.
