Dermal fillers can restore volume and fullness to your skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles or recessed scars, and even adjust the shape of your face. Andover Dermatology can help you restore your youthful appearance.
What are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are substances that are injected into your skin which are designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and restore volume loss. Dermal fillers can be one of a variety of natural or synthetic substances, such as:
- Calcium hydroxylapatite: A temporary, natural type of filler that is very dense and can improve the appearance of deep wrinkles. This type of filler may last a year or more after treatment.
- Hyaluronic acid: A temporary, natural type of filler which your body absorbs over time, usually within 6 months to a year of treatment.
- Poly-L-lactic acid: A temporary, synthetic type of filler that can stimulate natural collagen production, which can in turn promote healthy skin structure. This type of filler may last two or more years following treatment.
- Polymethylmethacrylate: PMMA for short, polymethylmethacrylate is a permanent, synthetic type of filler that can provide structure for your skin. This type of filler is inserted beneath the area you would like to improve and remains in place indefinitely.
- Autologous fat injections: Also known as facial fat grafting, this type of dermal filler is created from fat taken from another part of your body. This filler can improve the fullness of your face and may last for several years following treatment.
The type of dermal filler you receive will depend on factors such as medication you may be taking, your medical history, and the areas of your face you want to improve. Certain dermal fillers can be more effective than others at addressing certain areas due to the filler texture, filler density, and depth of the injection.
Dermal fillers are versatile and can address a variety of beauty goals, such as:
- Improve the volume in your cheeks or temples
- Increase the volume of thin lips
- Adjust the contours of your face
- Adjust the symmetry of your face
- Reduce the appearance of wrinkles or fine lines
- Reduce the appearance of recessed scars
- Smooth or reduce the appearance of a chin crease
- Smooth or reduce the appearance of creases in the lines around your nose and mouth
- Smooth or reduce the appearance of vertical lines above your lips
Minimize the appearance of shadows beneath the lower lid of your eye
Dermal fillers can be used on their own or as part of a comprehensive facial rejuvenation program. Your dermatologist will consult with you to determine the best techniques to help you reach your beauty goals.
How do Dermal Fillers Work?
Before you receive a dermal filler, your dermatologist will consult with you to identify the areas of your face you would like to improve. Your dermatologist can also answer any questions you may have about the treatment, the types of dermal fillers, or anything else you would like to know about the procedure or recovery. After consultation, your doctor will then recommend the best dermal filler treatment for your specific needs.
The dermal filler procedure is slightly different depending on the type of filler you are receiving.
Injectable Dermal Fillers
Injectable dermal fillers are a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that does not require anaesthesia. The area to be treated is first cleaned, then numbed to minimize your discomfort.
You may notice some bruising or swelling after the procedure. Ice packs can help reduce swelling and ease any discomfort you may be experiencing. You can generally resume your normal activities after treatment, although your doctor may recommend against strenuous exercise or activity.
Treatments last a varying amount of time depending on the individual, the type of dermal filler used, and the area that has been treated.
Facial Fat Grafting
Like injectable dermal fillers, facial fat grafting is also an outpatient procedure. However, this type of dermal filler requires surgery.
The specifics of the surgery, the duration of your recovery time, and the expected longevity of results vary from person to person. Your doctor at Andover Dermatology will consult with you, explain what to expect from your surgery, and make sure you are comfortable and confident about the procedure.
Improving Your Appearance with Dermal Fillers at Andover Dermatology
Dermal fillers are a great way to improve targeted areas of your face since each type of filler excels at improving certain areas. Andover Dermatology recommends that you seek an experienced medical professional’s guidance to determine the best dermal filler or combination of therapies to help you meet your beauty goals.
In addition, consulting with a dermatologist will ensure that you identify any existing medications or health conditions that may interfere with the effectiveness of the dermal filler treatment. This minimizes complications and optimizes long-lasting effects.
At Andover Dermatology, we consult with you to develop a custom treatment plan tailored to your preferences and goals. We have over 30 years experience providing the best dermatology care in the Andover, MA and Salem, NH areas.
Give us a call to learn more about how we can help you restore your youthful glow. We look forward to helping you look younger and feel your best.