All you need to know about dermal fillers

Laura Mosely

Facial fillers are also known as soft-tissue fillers, dermal fillers, and wrinkle fillers. They are naturally occurring or synthetic substances that are injected into the folds, tissues, and facial lines to decrease the visibility of age-related irregularities. Dermal fillers are also used for facial cosmetic treatments, correct acne scars, and restore youthful facial fullness. Since most of these fillers are absorbable, they provide temporary solutions that can last for months or even years, depending on the patient and the product used. Read on to learn the benefits of opting for Downtown DC fillers.

 How do fillers work?

Dermal filler injections help reduce the visibility of wrinkles, add volume to the skin and give a smooth, radiant appearance by increasing your skin’s supply of hyaluronic acid. Dermal fillers mainly contain a soft injectable gel composed of stabilized hyaluronic acid that is friendly to your tissues and works instantly by decreasing the appearance of age deformities. The outcomes of a single treatment are immediately evident and can last for up to 9 months. Facial fillers are very effective in diminishing facial wrinkles and lines, re-shape facial contours, regenerating the skin, and creating fuller lips.

Types of fillers

There are four primary types of fillers, with each categorized to the kind of material they contain. They include:

  • Poly-L-lactic acid. This is a biodegradable synthetic material that can be used to make dissolvable medical stitches. It can last for up to twenty-four months.
  • Hyaluronic acid. It is naturally produced in your body and is present in your cartilage and skin. These fillers can last for six to twelve months.
  • Polymethylmethacrylate beads. This is the only dermal filler that cannot be absorbed by the human body. This means that their results are permanent.
  • Calcium hydroxyapatite. This is a mineral present in our bones. These fillers can last for up to eighteen months.

 Risks

Although rare, the risks associated with dermal fillers depend on whether the procedure was performed correctly and the type of dermal filler used. Some of the common risks include:

  • Infections
  • Blocked blood vessels, which can result in permanent blindness and tissue death
  • Scarring
  • A lumpy appearance under the skin
  • The need for surgery if the filler moves away from the targeted treatment area

Safety precautions

The following are some simple guidelines that you need to follow to prevent the risks associated with filler treatment from happening:

  1.     Have it performed by a licensed, well-skilled, and experienced healthcare professional
  2.     Have the treatment done in a medical setting
  3.     Avoid the use of over-the-counter dermal fillers
  4.     Make sure the filler is FDA-approved
  5.     Check on the components of the filler to avoid any allergic reactions
  6.     Inform your doctor of any supplements and medications that you are taking
  7.     Be aware of the potential side effects and risks

Dermal fillers are among the most sought for non-surgical cosmetic treatments in America. They work effectively in smoothening out fine lines, wrinkles, and other age-related deformities. At Metroderm DC: Medical, Laser, and Aesthetic Dermatology Center in Washington, DC, our team of well-trained and board-certified dermatologists will provide you with customized filler treatments. To learn more about our services, you can schedule telemedicine or in-office consultation or call any of our offices at 202-659-2223.