DERMAL FILLERS
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are becoming more popular each year as the cosmetic industry makes greater varieties available at lower price points than ever before. They provide instant, impressive results to smooth wrinkles and add volume where patients want it. Facial injectable products most commonly contain hyaluronic acid, which helps to fill facial lines or restore volume lost in areas like the cheeks and lips. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is injected under the skin at various depths with fine needles or cannulas. The results typically last between 6-18 months before a touch up is needed.
How Do Dermal Fillers Work?
Dermal fillers can help add volume on the face for patients of all ages. Common treatment areas include: under eyes, the lips, cheeks, chin and jawline, nasolabial folds, (laugh lines) and marionette lines at the bottom corners of the mouth. HA fillers can even improve the appearance of the neck and backs of hands. HA is naturally absorbed by the body over time. This is one of the reasons this filler type is such a widely used cosmetic tool.
In the Greater Toronto Area, dermal filler uses, treatment considerations, and everything you need to know can be learned at MAC BEAUTY CENTER. We are a team of highly trained medical practitioners and have experience using dermal fillers to achieve beautiful, natural-looking results.*
What are the side effects of filler injections?
Side effects are rare but can include redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. The filler may also show up under the skin as tiny bumps. This is a problem that often improves over time
WHAT IS THE IDEAL AGE FOR GETTING DERMAL FILLERS?
More and more women in their twenties are now interested in dermal fillers for lip plumping, particularly now that lip injections have become so popular. Individuals who are troubled by the appearance of facial scarring caused by acne or chickenpox, may also turn to dermal fillers to fill and correct these small imperfections. In addition, both Botox and dermal fillers together can be used preventatively for clients in their 20’s, to thwart early signs of aging like smile lines, brow furrows and loss of cheek volume
Both men and women in their thirties and forties request dermal fillers to delay the onset of the aging process, preventing the development of fine lines, wrinkles, and folds in the face. Common treatment areas include crow’s feet, nasolabial folds, and depressions beneath the eyes otherwise known as tear troughs. The subtle results achieved with this treatment help people to make small adjustments that go undetected but allow them to look more youthful and rested. In addition, many patients in this age range opt for dermal fillers due to their temporary benefits. Unlike a more permanent and invasive surgical procedure, such as a facelift or fat-grafting, dermal fillers last anywhere from 9 to 24 months, which allows people to appreciate the effects without making a life-long commitment.
Patients in their 50s and up who hope to restore volume to their face or reduce the appearance of wrinkles will often opt for dermal fillers if they are uncomfortable spending time or money on more invasive surgical alternatives. At this age, loss of collagen can result in “sunken” cheeks, which can often be effectively corrected with fillers. However, while dermal fillers can be effective at any age, it is important to be aware that individuals who have significant skin laxity or volume loss may be better suited to a facelift if they hope to achieve dramatic results.
Regardless of your age, at Mac Beauty Center, we are dedicated to helping patients look and feel their best. To determine whether dermal fillers can be used to help you achieve your aesthetic goals, we welcome you to contact our clinic and schedule a complimentary consultation with a member of our expert team. We will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan and use top-of-the-line dermal fillers to deliver beautiful, natural results that exceed your expectations.
DERMAL FILLERS AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS | THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW
For the first 1-2 days, the treatment area may be red, swollen, tender and/or bruised. Although this typically resolves itself within the first twenty-four hours, it is advisable to apply cold compresses to the treatment area to alleviate swelling and minimize the risk of bruising.
Although it is possible to resume your normal skin care routine immediately afterwards, it is advisable to avoid using products which contain Alpha Hydroxy Acids/Gylcolics (AHAs), Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA), or Retinoid for at least 24 hours, as these active ingredients may aggregate the injection sites. If you are unsure whether your daily products are safe to use, please discuss this with your technician during your treatment.
Although it is safe to apply light makeup, it is preferable to refrain from applying makeup to the treatment area for the first 24 hours in order to allow your skin time to recover.
The consumption of alcohol increases circulation, which may result in prolonged bruising or swelling. As such, it is advisable to refrain from consuming alcohol for 1-2 days following your treatment
In addition, it is best to avoid strenuous activities such as exercise in order to prevent overheating.
It is important to stay hydrated following your treatment by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Medications such as Ibuprofen and Aspirin/Dispirin thin the blood and should therefore be avoided for at least 24-48 hours.
In the event that you feel or see any lumps, it is important to gently massage the treatment area with clean fingers.
Be sure to avoid undergoing any additional facial treatments, such as facials, waxing, peels, or laser treatments which will apply pressure to the treatment area, for 10-14 days after the injections.
The best way to learn more about dermal fillers and the aftercare required is to schedule an in-depth complimentary consultation with one of our dedicated experts. Please contact MAC BEAUTY CENTER today to see how we can help you safely and effectively achieve the results you are looking for.