Wrinkles and Fine Lines, Oh My! The Do’s and Don’ts of Dermal Fillers
In an age where hosting video conference calls all day is the norm, many of us are seeking treatments to smooth fine lines around our eyes and mouths or plump our lips and cheeks.
Dermal filler injections can improve the appearance of facial lines and volume loss caused by aging. Overall, studies find that patients are generally pleased with results from dermal fillers. But whether you’re new to dermal fillers or have been receiving regular injections for years, it’s important to always remember the do’s and don’ts of dermal fillers.
Do: Work with a licensed injector
It’s always a good idea to work with an experienced injector who is knowledgeable about fillers, managing complications, and most importantly, tells you about the risks and benefits before receiving treatment. A good injector will also consider the overall shape of your face and aim to provide balance and harmony.
At Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Burke Robinson and Michelle Giglio, PA-C, are recognized National Trainers for Galderma Aesthetics and Allergan (the makers of Botox and the most popular facial fillers on today’s market, along with Ivette Ballara, RN, BSN, an advanced cosmetic injector with over a decade of experience in facial rejuvenation using cosmetic fillers.
Do: Familiarize yourself with FDA-approved dermal fillers
The landscape around dermal fillers is constantly evolving, so it’s important to know what dermal fillers are, what’s in them, and how they affect your appearance. Dermal fillers are substances injected under the skin. Common materials used in them are hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which are used to plump or smooth your appearance.
The effects of most FDA-approved dermal fillers are temporary because the body breaks down and absorbs the materials over time. Thus, injections need to be repeated to maintain the desired effect. FDA approved uses of dermal fillers include:
- Correcting moderate-to-severe facial wrinkles and skin folds
- Increasing fullness of lips, cheeks, chin, under-eye hollows, and jawline
- Correcting acne scars on the cheek
Don’t: Use fillers that have not been approved by the FDA
The FDA hasn’t approved injectable silicone or any injectable fillers for body contouring or enhancement. Also, the FDA has not approved needle-free devices for injection of dermal fillers because these devices do not provide enough control over where the filler will be placed.
Don’t: Purchase dermal fillers that are sold directly to the public
While dermal fillers are becoming more readily available each day, fillers sold directly through the public are likely fake, contaminated with chemicals, or include significantly diluted amounts of active ingredients. At Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery, your licensed injector will discuss our broad portfolio of FDA-approved fillers and determine which are best for you.
Do: Know the differences between dermal fillers and botulinum toxin products
FDA-approved botulinum toxin products, including Botox and Dysport, treat facial wrinkles – but they are not dermal fillers. These products are injectable drugs that work by keeping muscles from tightening, so wrinkles are less prominent.
Interested in receiving dermal fillers? Contact us for a consultation.
