Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are a cost-effective way to look younger without undergoing surgical procedures. There are a few different types and are applied by injection underneath the skin. Dermal fillers are made of gel-like substances and are one of our most popular and favored facial rejuvenation treatments for fine lines, crepey under eye skin, and wrinkles.

You may have heard about dermal fillers being used as ‘wrinkle fillers’, but the fact is these treatments can be used for much more. A few other ways dermal fillers can help restore youthfulness are:

• To smooth the lines surrounding the nose and mouth areas (a.k.a. marionette lines, smile lines, and parentheses)
• To treat sunken cheeks or temples by restoring volume
• To minimize vertical lip lines
• Plumping and enhancement of the lips
• To smoothen out creases in and around the chin
• To align facial features and improve symmetry around the facial structure

Calcium hydroxylapatite is another type of dermal filler derived from a natural substance found in our body (it is primarily found within our bones). This filler contains microscopic calcium particles within a smooth gel like formula. The consistency of a CaHA filler is a bit thicker than HA fillers and typically lasts longer (about 12 months). This treatment is typically used for deeper set fine lines and wrinkles. FDA approved CaHA fillers include Radiesse®.

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic, biocompatible substance. It takes the form of a tiny ball beneath the skin and remains there indefinitely to provide ongoing support. These fillers contain collagen which promotes better structure and firmness of the skin. FDA-approved PMMA fillers include Bellafill® (formerly known as Artefill). This filler is also semi-permanent and typically used in treating medium to deep wrinkles and folds in the skin, particularly nasolabial folds. Generally, several injections are needed for full effects to be realized and results are achieved over a few months.