Line Filler Treatments
Q: What are dermal fillers?
Line fillers, such as Juvéderm, Restylane®, and Perlane, are safe and natural cosmetic dermal fillers that restore volume and fullness to the skin to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds.
Q: What are dermal line fillers made of and are they safe?
Cosmetic dermal fillers are composed of non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that already exists in the human body and is used to provide volume and fullness to the skin. The hyaluronic acid in dermal fillers is a crystal-clear gel that is biodegradable and completely biocompatible with human hyaluronic acid. Restylane, for example, has been used by physicians since 1996 worldwide. No allergy testing is required before use. The most commonly reported side effects were temporary redness and swelling at the injection site. These effects typically resolve in less than seven days.
Q: How are these dermal line fillers different from other hyaluronic acid-based products?
Unlike rooster-derived hyaluronic acids and bovine collagen products, all of these products are free from animal proteins. This limits any risk or development of allergic reactions to animal proteins.
Q: What should patients do prior to treatment?
Dermal filler treatment requires no pre-testing, but you should take a few precautions before being treated. Avoid using aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen, St. John’s wort, or high doses of Vitamin E supplements prior to treatment, because these may increase bruising or bleeding at the injection site. Also, if you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that the needle punctures could contribute to another recurrence.
Q: How often should I have dermal filler treatments done and how long does it last?
Restylane and Juvéderm are proven to deliver long-lasting results. Studies have shown that Restylane effects generally last for about six months. The unique technology helps maintain the cosmetic effect until the injected material is nearly gone.
Treatments are typically scheduled at six-month intervals. Please be sure to consult your physician about recommendations for follow-up treatments.
Q: How are dermal fillers different from Botox®?
Dermal fillers are a natural, cosmetic filler. In contrast, Botox is a medication that blocks nerve transmission and relaxes the underlying muscles temporarily. Many patients have been very pleased after receiving treatment with both products.
Q: How are dermal fillers different from bovine collagen?
Bovine collagen is derived from animals (cow) and requires an allergy test. Dermal fillers can be administered without pre-testing, so no waiting is required.
Q: Do the injections hurt?
Dermal fillers are injected directly into the skin in tiny amounts by an ultra fine needle, resulting in minimal discomfort. The procedure is simple and convenient, and results are practically instantaneous. To optimize your comfort during the short procedure, your physician may anesthetize the treatment area.