Dermal Fillers 101: Answering Your Most Pressing Questions

dermal fillers 101

Ever wondered how celebrities maintain their youthful look? Dermal fillers might be their secret weapon. 

These non-surgical treatments have skyrocketed in popularity, offering a quick and effective way to smooth wrinkles, restore volume, and enhance facial contours.

From understanding the different types to knowing what to expect during and after the procedure, this guide will give you the lowdown on everything you need to know. 

What Are Dermal Fillers?

At Face Fabulous Medical Spa in Clarksville, TN, I offer dermal fillers to help clients achieve smooth, youthful skin. 

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. 

Unlike surgical procedures, they provide immediate results with minimal downtime.

How Do Dermal Fillers Work?

Dermal fillers work by plumping areas under the skin where volume loss has occurred. This process smoothens wrinkles and enhances facial features. 

By injecting the filler directly into the desired area, I can achieve natural-looking results tailored to each client’s needs.

What Should I Know About Safety Before Getting Fillers?

While generally safe, dermal fillers can have side effects. Common ones include temporary redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. 

Rare complications may involve lumps or migration of filler material. 

I ensure all clients are well-informed and screened for potential allergies or contraindications before treatment.

At Face Fabulous Medical Spa, I prioritize client safety and satisfaction, making dermal fillers a reliable choice for aesthetic enhancement.

What are the Benefits of Dermal Fillers?

At Face Fabulous Medical Spa in Clarksville, TN, I offer dermal fillers to help clients achieve a youthful and rejuvenated appearance. 

Here are the key benefits of these popular treatments.

#1 Eliminating Fine Lines

Dermal fillers effectively eliminate fine lines. By targeting areas prone to wrinkles, like the forehead and around the eyes, they smooth out creases quickly. 

For instance, with hyaluronic acid fillers (such as Juvederm) fine lines become less noticeable, enhancing the skin’s overall texture. This leads to a fresher, more youthful look.

#2 Enhancing Facial Contours

Dermal fillers can also enhance facial contours. Utilizing fillers like Radiesse, I can create more defined cheekbones, a sharper jawline, or fuller lips. 

These treatments customize to the unique structure of each face, providing natural enhancements that align with individual aesthetic goals.

#3 Restoring Lost Volume

Restoring lost volume is another significant benefit of dermal fillers. Areas like the cheeks, temples, and under the eyes often lose volume with age. 

Fillers such as Sculptra and Restylane effectively address this concern, reintroducing volume and giving a plumper, more youthful appearance. 

When administered correctly, these treatments deliver subtle yet effective results.

What are the Common Types of Dermal Fillers?

At Face Fabulous Medical Spa in Clarksville, TN, we offer a variety of dermal fillers to meet the unique needs of our clients. 

Each type of filler has distinct properties, making them suitable for different facial enhancements.

#1 Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers

Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane, are popular for their versatility and natural-looking results. These gel-like substances attract and retain moisture, providing an immediate plumping effect. 

HA fillers are ideal for smoothing wrinkles, adding volume to cheeks, and enhancing lips. They’re biocompatible, making them a safe choice with minimal risk of allergic reactions. 

Over time, the body gradually absorbs the hyaluronic acid, and the effects typically last 6 to 12 months.

#2 Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers

Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers, like Radiesse, contain calcium-based microspheres suspended in a gel. These fillers are excellent for restoring volume in deeper facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds. Calcium hydroxylapatite stimulates natural collagen production, enhancing the skin’s structure and firmness. 

The results from these fillers are long-lasting, often up to 12 months or more. 

Radiesse is also known for providing a more pronounced lift and structure, which can be beneficial for clients seeking more substantial facial contouring.

#3 Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers

Poly-L-lactic acid fillers, such as Sculptra, work differently from other fillers. Rather than providing immediate results, these fillers stimulate collagen production over time, leading to gradual skin volume restoration. 

Sculptra is particularly effective for treating volume loss in areas like the cheeks and temples. The treatment involves multiple sessions, spaced a few weeks apart, with results lasting up to two years. 

This type of filler is ideal for clients looking for subtle, natural-looking enhancements that develop progressively.

#4 Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillers

Polymethylmethacrylate fillers, like Bellafill, offer a semi-permanent solution for deep wrinkles and facial contouring. Bellafill contains tiny PMMA microspheres suspended in a collagen gel, providing immediate volume while encouraging collagen production for lasting support. 

These fillers are well-suited for treating persistent nasolabial folds and acne scars. Since PMMA fillers are not absorbed by the body, they provide long-term results, often lasting five years or more. 

Due to their permanence, it’s essential to consult with a skilled practitioner to ensure the desired outcome.

Face Fabulous Medical Spa ensures each client receives a personalized treatment plan, tailored to their specific needs and aesthetic goals. 

The choice of dermal filler will depend on factors like the treatment area, the desired longevity of results, and individual preferences.

What Does The Filler Procedure Look Like?

At Face Fabulous Medical Spa in Clarksville, TN, I ensure that every client feels comfortable and informed throughout their dermal filler journey. 

Here’s a step-by-step look at what you can expect during your appointment and important preparation and aftercare tips.

What to Expect During the Appointment?

When clients come in for a dermal filler treatment, the first step is scheduling a comprehensive consultation. During the consultation, I evaluate your facial structure and discuss your aesthetic goals. It’s crucial to understand these objectives to customize the treatment effectively.

Next, I cleanse the treatment area to ensure it’s sterile. A numbing cream or local anesthetic is applied to minimize discomfort during the injections. Once the area is numb, I use a fine needle to inject the filler beneath your skin. The entire process typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the treatment area’s size.

Throughout the procedure, clients may feel slight pressure or a pinching sensation at the injection sites. However, most find the process quite tolerable. After the injections, I gently massage the treated areas to distribute the filler evenly.

How Should I Prepare and What Should I Do For Aftercare?

Proper preparation and aftercare are essential for the best results with dermal fillers. Before the appointment, I advise clients to avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen, and vitamin E for at least a week, as they can increase the risk of bruising.

It’s also beneficial to stay hydrated and avoid consuming alcohol 24 hours before the procedure. Arriving at the appointment with a clean face, free from makeup, helps maintain a sterile environment.

After the procedure, clients should avoid strenuous activities and excessive facial movements for at least 24 hours. Applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling and discomfort. It’s important to stay upright for a few hours post-treatment and avoid touching or massaging the treated areas to prevent displacement of the filler.

In the days following the procedure, I recommend avoiding direct sun exposure and using sunscreen to protect the skin. Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet also supports optimal healing and results. Any temporary redness, swelling, or bruising typically subsides within a week. If any unusual reactions occur, contact me immediately for follow-up care.

By adhering to these preparation and aftercare guidelines, clients can ensure they achieve the best possible outcome from their dermal filler treatments at Face Fabulous Medical Spa.

What Is The Cost of Dermal Fillers?

We aim to provide high-quality dermal filler treatments at competitive rates at Face Fabulous Medical Spa in Clarksville, TN. 

The cost of dermal fillers can vary based on several factors.

Factors Influencing Cost

  • Type of Filler: The type of dermal filler affects the price. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane generally cost less per syringe than more specialized options like calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) or poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra).
  • Volume Required: The amount of filler needed to achieve desired results influences the total cost. Some areas, such as cheeks and lips, may require more product to provide noticeable enhancement.
  • Treatment Areas: Different facial areas may involve varying costs due to complexity and the amount of product used. Treating fine lines might be less expensive than augmenting larger areas like the jawline or cheeks.
  • Practitioner Expertise: Treatment by a highly skilled and experienced practitioner adds investment value, ensuring safety and satisfactory results.
  • Location and Facility: Procedures performed in high-end medical spas or urban centers might come with higher prices due to operational costs.

Price Range

On average, our clients spend between $500 and $2,000 per session. Here’s a general price breakdown for common fillers:

Filler Type

Average Cost Per Syringe

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

$500 – $750

Calcium Hydroxylapatite

$650 – $1,000

Poly-L-lactic Acid Fillers

$800 – $1,200

Polymethyl Methacrylate

$1,000 – $1,500

Duration and Effectiveness?

As a provider of dermal fillers at Face Fabulous Medical Spa in Clarksville, TN, I often get questions about how long these treatments last and their overall effectiveness. 

How Long Do Fillers Last?

The duration of dermal fillers varies based on the type of filler used and individual factors. Here are some specifics:

  • Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane): Typically last between 6 to 18 months. Longevity depends on the treatment area and client’s metabolism.
  • Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers (e.g., Radiesse): Offer results lasting up to 12 months. These fillers also stimulate collagen production, potentially extending results.
  • Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers (e.g., Sculptra): Provide more gradual results with effects lasting up to 2 years. Several sessions may be needed for optimal outcomes.
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate Fillers (e.g., Bellafill): Known for their semi-permanent nature, these fillers can last over 5 years, making them ideal for deeper wrinkles.

At Face Fabulous Medical Spa, I tailor treatment plans to ensure clients achieve their desired longevity and aesthetic goals.

Factors Influencing Longevity

Several factors can affect the duration of dermal fillers:

  • Metabolism: Faster metabolisms break down fillers more quickly, reducing their lifespan.
  • Treatment Area: Dynamic areas like lips may see quicker filler breakdown than less mobile areas like cheeks.
  • Lifestyle: Smoking, sun exposure, and skincare routines can impact filler longevity.

By considering these factors, I help clients understand what to expect from their dermal filler treatments at Face Fabulous Medical Spa.

Maintaining Your Results

To maintain the best results, clients should follow post-treatment care guidelines:

  • Avoid strenuous activities and excessive sun exposure after treatment.
  • Use recommended skincare products to support filler longevity.
  • Schedule maintenance appointments as advised.

By adhering to these tips and consulting regularly with me, clients at Face Fabulous Medical Spa can enjoy longer-lasting, effective dermal filler results.

What are the Risks and Side Effects?

At Face Fabulous Medical Spa in Clarksville, TN, we prioritize your safety and satisfaction when receiving dermal fillers. 

While fillers offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks and side effects.

Immediate Side Effects

Clients may experience several immediate side effects after receiving dermal fillers. These side effects typically resolve within a few days:

  • Redness – It’s common to see redness around the injection sites immediately after treatment.
  • Swelling – Swelling can occur but usually subsides within 48 hours.
  • Bruising – Some clients may notice bruising, especially if blood-thinning medications are taken prior to treatment.
  • Tenderness – The treated area may feel tender to the touch for a few days.
  • Itching – Mild itching might be present as the skin heals.

Following our aftercare instructions helps minimize these side effects, ensuring a smoother recovery process.

Long-term Considerations

Although dermal fillers are usually safe, there are some long-term considerations:

  • Nodules or Lumps – Rarely, clients might develop small lumps under the skin, which are treatable with additional injections or massage.
  • Infection – Though infrequent, there’s a risk of infection at the injection site, manageable with antibiotics.
  • Migration – Fillers can shift to different areas over time, but this is preventable with proper injection techniques.
  • Allergic Reactions – Some clients might experience allergic reactions, which are rare but possible.

Regular consultations at Face Fabulous Medical Spa assist in monitoring these long-term effects, ensuring ongoing satisfaction and safety. By staying informed and following guidelines, clients can enjoy the lasting benefits of their dermal filler treatments confidently.

Can Fillers Be Reversed?

Yes, certain types of dermal fillers can be reversed. At Face Fabulous Medical Spa in Clarksville, TN, hyaluronic acid fillers, like Juvederm and Restylane, are often used due to their reversibility. 

These fillers contain hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the skin, and can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. 

If clients are dissatisfied with their results or experience adverse reactions, I can administer hyaluronidase to break down and dissolve the filler, which typically restores the treated area to its original state within a few days.

However, not all fillers are reversible. Options like calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) and polymethyl methacrylate (Bellafill) do not have a direct reversal enzyme. 

Managing concerns with these fillers involves patience as the body naturally metabolizes them, along with potential corrective measures depending on individual cases. 

I discuss the implications of choosing these types of fillers during the initial consultation to ensure clients make informed decisions.

Reversibility provides peace of mind for clients exploring dermal fillers at Face Fabulous Medical Spa. I always prioritize client safety and satisfaction, offering comprehensive guidance and effective solutions to achieve desired outcomes.

Do You Have Additional Questions?

Dermal fillers offer a fantastic way to achieve a youthful and refreshed appearance without the need for invasive surgery. 

At Face Fabulous Medical Spa, we provide a range of filler options tailored to meet individual needs and aesthetic goals. If you have any questions feel free to contact us, we’re happy to help.