FILLERS

 Do Dermal Fillers Compare to Face Lifts?

Dermal fillers can have an astounding effect on your face. Sometimes it’s not a facelift that’s needed but volume replacement. Even after a facelift, restoring volume loss is often needed to complete the rejuvenation process.

Dermal fillers could be a viable option for you either as an alternative to surgery or an addition to surgery. 

Are Cannulas an Option for my Dermal Filler?

Yes, you can also opt for needle-less injections delivered by a smooth-tipped micro cannula. Our physicians were early adopters of the microcannulas, and are experts in using this specialized injection technique.

Which Parts of the Body Can Be Treated with Dermal Filler?

Dermal Filler for Aging Hands

As we age, the skin on our hands becomes thinner, causing veins and tendons to become more prominent. Dermal fillers work by restoring the volume of the skin that has been lost with ageing. When used on hands, this can make visible bones, tendons and veins less prominent. At the same time gives the hands an overall more youthful appearance.

Your practitioner will determine how much filler your hands require and where to inject the treatment into your hands. As with any aesthetic treatment, it’s vital that you see an experienced and qualified practitioner with a detailed knowledge of hand anatomy. If the product is not injected deeply enough into the skin, it can be visible. And if it’s injected too deeply, the effects can wear off more quickly.

After the fillers are injected, your dermatologist massages the fillers into place. Dermal fillers should contour with the shape of the hands, while being able to adapt to the constant movement that hands make.

When injected correctly, results will appear instantly and, depending on the filler used, will last for over a year. 

Dermal Filler for Ear Lobes

Earlobes can sag and wrinkle as we age and the hole from piercings can get bigger as a result of wearing heavy earrings. Overextended and wrinkled earlobes can be ‘filled in’ with dermal fillers to smooth out creases and ensure earrings sit correctly in the ear; fillers restore the earlobe to a more youthful looking state.

Unlike areas of the body such as the face and neck, there is very little dynamic movement in the earlobes so dermal fillers injected here can have long lasting effects, often for up to 18 months.

You will be able to wear earrings days after having treatment.

How Should I Prepare for Dermal Filler Injections?

Undergoing an injectable treatment can be exciting. But for someone who doesn’t know what to expect, it can also inspire some anxiety. Keep your anxiety at bay by following these tips before coming in for your treatment.

Because post-procedural swelling is to be expected, and can vary depending on which area is being injected, taking these steps prior to your procedure will aid in bringing down the swelling and minimizing possible bruising:

• Minimize alcohol consumption for a minimum of 24 hours prior to injectable treatment. Alcohol can thin the blood making it easier for bruising to occur. It is best to avoid alcohol for a minimum of 3 days prior to injectable treatment.

• Avoid certain supplements and medications before the procedure. It is best to avoid any blood thinning agents for at least 1 week prior to injectable treatment to minimize the occurrence of bruising.

  • Stop all NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications) such as aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, etc. Tylenol is ok to use.

  • Stop all herbal supplements such as fish oil, ginkgo, ginseng, St. John’s Wort, garlic pills, etc. (a multi-vitamin is ok to continue).

  • Always discuss any history of allergies and current medications you are taking with your provider.

• Start taking oral Arnica montana prior to the procedure. Arnica montana is a natural supplement which helps to reduce swelling and bruising. Starting the supplement the day prior to the procedure and continuing after the procedure is recommended.

• Avoid salty foods a few days before and after the treatment as excess sodium causes the body to retain water, which in turn can worsen swelling.

• Avoid any depilatory treatments (hair removal, such as tweezing, waxing, etc.) for a minimum of 2 days prior to the treatment. Tell your provider if you are planning any chemical peel treatments or laser treatments as this may cause possible irritation at the treatment site.

• If you have a history of cold sores, it is important to let your provider know. There is a risk that the treatment could trigger an outbreak, so your provider may want to treat you with Valtrex.

• Tell your provider if you are on immunosuppressive therapy.

• Tell your provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding as the safety profile has not been studied on this group and injectable treatment should not be performed.

How Long Does It Take to Get Dermal Filler Injections?

Filler injections will usually take between 15-45 minutes, depending on your individual needs, like the areas being treated and the amount of filler used. When combined with other injectables, the entire process will take a little longer.

Does It Hurt to Get Dermal Filler Injections?

Getting filler is a little bit uncomfortable, but at ICON Dermatology & Aesthetics we do all we can to make  it as close to pain-free as possible. First, we use very effective topical numbing cream to numb the skin prior to injection. We let the cream sit in place for at least 10 minutes prior to injection which makes a huge difference in the comfort level, especially for lip filler. 
We can also apply an ice pack to the area for a few seconds before each injection. Not only does this decrease the pain, but it also constricts the blood vessels to decrease bruising. Finally, we can use a beauty bar which creates a small vibration. Applying the beauty bar to the skin right next to where our board-certified physicians are injecting distracts your nerves from the sensation of the injection. This all culminates into a surprisingly comfortable experience.

 Are Dermal Fillers Safe?

Every dermal filler has had extensive clinical testing prior to being available to patients and are all FDA-approved. Injector credentialing is important, and our providers have extensive experience in injections and are certified master injectors.

Are There Any Medical Reasons Why I Should Not Get Filler?

If you have any sensitivity to hyaluronic acid, lidocaine, or gram-positive bacteria tell your doctor. Let them know of any history of facial surgery, nerve or muscle injury, or facial diseases. Some medical conditions that can affect healing such as autoimmune disorders, diabetes, bleeding or endocrine disorders, please discuss with our team.

What If I Don’t Like Results of Dermal Filler Injection?

Using a Hyaluronic Acid-based dermal filler is very safe because it is easily reversible, unlike some other fillers. If the patient is not happy with their results, or there is an unforeseen complication, the filler can be dissolved with another in-office injection quickly and painlessly.

 What Are The Risks and Potential Side Effects of Dermal Filler? 

With dermal fillers, most patients have very few, if any, adverse side effects and little downtime after treatments. The most common side effects are redness and/or swelling at the injection site which typically lasts for about two to three days. As with any injection, bruising is also a possibility. In addition, a very small percentage of patients may develop a hypersensitivity reaction resulting in prolonged red, tender or swollen areas. Other injection-related reactions such as mild irritation, itching and rarely infection may occur. Very rare but serious side effects, including skin necrosis, stroke and blindness have been reported.

 What is Dermal Filler Recovery Like?

 You can resume normal activity immediately after your injections.  The most common reactions to injections are swelling associated with the injections and the filler, bruising, and tenderness to touch; some high-impact activity can affect swelling, so you may want to avoid it for a few days. Lips can be a little more sensitive due to the nature of the delicate skin.  Ice packs can help to minimize swelling and bruising.

 How Long Does Dermal Filler Last?

Belotero lasts approximately 6 months. Restylane and Juvederm typically last 6-12 months. RADIESSE lasts an average of 12-18 months. Sculptra typically lasts one to two years.

The great thing about these products is that they all stimulate collagen production, so that over time less filler may be required as the body builds up its own framework of collagen.

 Your Initial Dermal Filler Consultation

During your initial consultation, our dermatologists will perform a comprehensive facial examination that thoroughly evaluates the shape of your face, the presence of wrinkles and lines as well as the overall texture of your skin. She will discuss your facial evaluation with you in front of a mirror and determine the role of dermal filler in your treatment.

A key component of this examination is confirming that the wrinkles of concern are the result of volume loss and not muscle activity. Depending on the nature of your wrinkles, our physicians may suggest other modalities of treatment, such as Botox/Dysport or laser treatment.

 Am I A Good Candidate for Dermal Filler?

 Men and women concerned with the appearance of facial fine lines or wrinkles or volume loss in the cheeks or lips may be considered good candidates for dermal fillers. However, it is important that patients still have elasticity remaining in their skin. Severe drooping or sagging of the skin may not be improved with dermal fillers. Patients experiencing severely sagging facial skin may be better suited for a surgical procedure, such as a face lift.

Furthermore, patients should be in good health – meaning they are non-smokers and do not drink heavily. They should also have realistic expectations for the outcome of the treatment. It is essential that patients understand that dermal fillers are not permanent and will require continuous maintenance in order to preserve the results.

What Dermal Filler Is Right for Me?

Fillers are designed with different areas in mind. They are processed to be either more structurally supportive or more flexible, which is why our physicians tailor a custom plan for each individual patient, to ensure the desired results are achieved. Areas such as cheeks, nasal labial folds, and lips have static and dynamic movements that are very different. Different fillers can coordinate with those movements for either a natural look or a dramatic appearance. We have a vast range of products for your needs.

How Many Syringes of Filler Will I Need?

The amount of filler our board-certified dermatologists recommend will be discussed during your consultation. It will depend on your desired outcome and whether you prefer an incremental process, or an immediate rejuvenation. We can plan according to your lifestyle and budget.

Why Choose ICON Dermatology for Your Dermal Filler Treatment?

Our board-certified dermatologists have extensive experience in providing facial injections. They have treated thousands of patients and dedicated thousands of hours perfecting their technique to correct a number of facial issues and asymmetries.

Patient education is a cornerstone of our philosophy of care. Many patients visit ICON Dermatology seeking a specific treatment without realizing all their options and alternatives. Depending on your situation and goals, our physicians may recommend additional or alternative treatments to help you achieve the appearance you desire.

Whether our doctors recommend injectable fillers or another treatment to help address your aesthetic goals, you can rest assured that she always holds your best interests at heart and will never recommend a procedure that is not right for you. You will never feel rushed or pressured into deciding. The decisions are up to you. We are here to help.

How much does Dermal Filler Cost?

Our board-certified dermatologists will create a custom plan just for you. She will recommend the type of filler and number of syringes necessary to achieve your desired outcome. Treatments start at $600 and up.

Can fillers be combined with neurotoxins?

Absolutely! Softening the muscle fibers and keeping them relaxed along with hydration and volume is a 1-2 punch!

 Schedule Your Dermal Filler Consultation Today

Dermal Fillers are a quick anti-aging treatment that can restore years worth of volume loss and produce beautiful results. Perfect for men and women on the go, dermal fillers offer immediate results with little to no downtime. If you would like to learn if you are a good candidate for dermal fillers, please call ICON Dermatology today at (301) 810-3600 to schedule an initial consultation.