10 facts you should know about dermal fillers
As we age, our skin loses collagen and elasticity, which can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, and even skin sagging. At LUXE Medical Spa and Laser, we offer a range of injectable dermal fillers that can restore fullness to the facial tissue and help you to achieve the most youthful and radiant appearance possible.
Dermal fillers is the name given to a range of injectables available for non-surgical cosmetic procedures. These injections offer a non-permanent, but impactful alternative to expensive and invasive reconstruction surgery. They work through the targeted injection of bio-compatible ingredients that add fullness under the skin.
If you’re considering getting dermal fillers, here are 10 facts you should know:
What are dermal fillers?
There are several types of dermal fillers that are used to achieve different results (more on that below). Fillers are a gel-like substance injected with a needle under the surface of the skin to add volume to the targeted area.
In Canada, all cosmetic injectable fillers are made from substances naturally produced by the body. The most common form of dermal filler is hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the skin and cartilage. Hyaluronic acid naturally retains moisture and helps the skin look not only fuller but more youthful and glowing as well.
At LUXE, we use only premiere, Health Canada-approved dermal fillers with no synthetic content.
Dermal fillers work differently than Botox
Unlike Botox, which acts by constricting the muscle movement in targeted areas, dermal fillers can be used to treat wrinkles and other signs of ageing by acting like collagen. Collagen helps to fill wrinkles and add volume to targeted areas of the skin. So while Botox stops the small muscles in your face from moving and causing wrinkles, dermal fillers can treat wrinkles from below, smoothing them out by plumping the skin and promoting a youthful appearance. Some studies have shown that the use of hyaluronic acid fillers may stimulate the body's natural collagen production.
What are dermal fillers used for?
Fillers were first used to treat wrinkles and fine lines associated with ageing. Common treatment areas include:
Brow furrows
Crow’s feet
Naso-labial folds and smile lines
Vertical lip lines
Fine lines under the eyes
More recently, fillers are being used to augment and enhance facial features such as creating sharper cheekbones, fuller lips, more defined jawlines, and straighter noses. Fillers can also be used on other parts of the body such as the neck, chest, and hands to rejuvenate crépey skin.
Dermal fillers aren’t just for plumping or to treat the signs of ageing.
Fillers have a range of treatment uses. While the most common uses of dermal fillers are to plump lips or treat wrinkles, they can also be used in the place of cosmetic surgery to help alter facial structures and overall appearance. If you have an area of concern or are unhappy with an aspect of your appearance, book a complimentary consultation with one of our cosmetic filler specialists to see if injectables could be an alternative to surgery for you.
How long do dermal fillers last?
While dermal fillers are not permanent, they do last a long time. Depending on which filler you use and in which area, the effects of your dermal filler treatment can last up to 18 months. Dermal fillers are reversible, as well. An enzyme can be injected into the site to dissolve the filler. At LUXE, our team of highly trained injection specialists can help to repair incorrect filler placement in any area of the face.
Different fillers are used to achieve different things
There are two types of fillers commonly available in Canada. Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most common type, made from a substance that is naturally produced by your body. Generally, fillers made with hyaluronic acid last between 6-12 months. A second type of filler is made from calcium hydroxylapatite, which is a mineral that is found in our bones. Fillers made with this material last up to 18 months.
Even within each category of filler, there are multiple types of dermal filler designed for different uses. Some contain larger particles, designed to treat areas that require more structure, like cheekbones, while others have smaller particles better suited to fill fine lines. Additionally, the depth of injection varies depending on the area and issue being treated. Deep injections with firm fillers create volume and shape, while mid-depth injections with medium-firm fillers reduce the appearance of creases, and superficial injections with soft fillers help to smooth out wrinkles and hydrate the skin.
Aftercare is minimal
Most people experience very little side effects from having a dermal filler injected. You may experience slight bruising at the injection site, or possible redness, tenderness, and swelling. These symptoms can be easily treated with over-the-counter medications and should subside within two to three days.
Results are immediate
The results of injections vary, with many experiencing slight swelling or bruising at the injection site. Most commonly, you will see an immediate difference in the fullness and shape in the area treated. As this slight swelling subsides and the filler settles into the skin, you will see the final and natural-looking results.
Dermal fillers are not just for women
Although dermal fillers are most popular with women, a lot of men are also choosing to get fillers to help them look younger. Just like women, men’s collagen production decreases with age and skin loses elasticity. We are seeing a growing number of men enjoying the same benefits of dermal fillers as women in our clinic.
To see if dermal fillers are right for you, book a consultation with one of our experienced practitioners, who can help you come up with the treatment plan that is right for you.
The effects of fillers are reversible.
Please keep in mind that dermal fillers can take up to two weeks to fully settle into your skin. n most cases, we can expertly adjust your fillers or they can be dissolved altogether.
To find out more about how dermal fillers can be used to treat your concerns, book a complimentary consultation with one of our expert injection practitioners today.