Cosmetic injectables like dermal fillers are some of the most common minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures performed in the United States. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons states that every year, approximately 2.6 million dermal filler injections are performed in the country. But what are dermal fillers? At Bayside Medspa, we can help you learn whether fillers can help.
The Basics: What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are cosmetic injectables that can add volume to treatment areas while also helping to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. They are an excellent option for the treatment of static wrinkles, which are the creases that remain in place even when your face is at rest.
Once you move into your 30s, your body stops producing as much collagen as it used to. Collagen is a protein that keeps your skin firm and hydrated, allowing it to bounce back after you smile or frown.
When the production of collagen decreases, your skin has a harder time returning to its original position and can begin to sag and lose its volume. That is where cosmetic fillers can benefit you. They can help with:
- Adding volume
- Plumping up lips and cheeks
- Smoothing lines and wrinkles
- Making your facial structures more symmetrical
There are two main types of dermal fillers: hyaluronic acid-based and collagen-stimulating fillers. The first option offers a synthetic version of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in your body, helping your skin stay hydrated and giving it its volume.
The levels of this acid also decrease as you age, so you can get a bit of help from the fillers, which provide the same results as your natural acid would. We offer Radiesse Versa and Belotero hyaluronic acid fillers.
Collagen-stimulating fillers have an active ingredient that helps your body produce new collagen. Radiesse Plus is an excellent example of these types of dermal fillers. You can get dermal fillers under eyes, dermal fillers, lip options, and other choices to help you get the result you want.
One of the questions many people have when choosing dermal fillers is, “Am I a good candidate?” A good candidate for dermal fillers is someone who has realistic expectations about the results, who is in overall good health, and who doesn’t have skin infections or sensitivity to any of the ingredients in the cosmetic fillers.
What Benefits Can You Expect From Dermal Fillers?
Getting cosmetic fillers is a quick procedure. You can get the injections during your lunch break and then return to your regular day without worrying about dealing with a long recovery time.
Dermal fillers are also a less invasive option than other procedures that can offer smooth lines and treat volume loss, like facelifts. What’s even better, the results are not permanent, so if you are not sure about whether you like having the fillers, you don’t have to stress about living with the results.
Dermal fillers can also be appropriate for delicate areas, like around the eyes. Dermal fillers under eyes options can allow you to address those fine wrinkles that can make you appear older.
The Procedure: Preparing for Cosmetic Fillers
The first step in getting close to the results you want is to turn to us for a consultation. During this consultation, we will assess the treatment areas while also getting your full medical history and a list of any medications you take. If you use skin care products, let us know about these as well.
If we think you could benefit from cosmetic fillers, we will ask that you prepare for the injections by avoiding alcohol for a few days and staying away from blood-thinning medications. You also want to avoid medications that can make your skin more sensitive and excessive exposure to the sun.
For any questions you have about getting ready for the procedure, we are here to help. The procedure itself can take just a few minutes, depending on the number of treatment areas as well as the locations where the injections will take place.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
Once you have gotten the injections, you are free to return to your regular life. It can be important to continue avoiding alcohol or the use of any abrasive skin care products for a few days. You can use ice packs as needed, as well as over-the-counter medications. Just make sure to avoid blood thinners for a while longer. You also need to avoid rubbing or scratching at the treatment areas until the filler has settled.
How long do dermal fillers last? It can depend on the location they are treating. Dermal fillers lip injections, for example, can last a bit less time than injections in other areas because of how much you move your lips. Your metabolism can also play a role. We can help you put together a treatment plan that ensures you can maintain the results you want.
Dermal Fillers: Helping You Look Your Best
If you don’t want to see those fine lines and drooping skin every time you look in the mirror, dermal fillers can help. At Bayside Medspa in Norfolk, VA, we offer a variety of dermal fillers to help target any treatment area. We offer dermal fillers made with hyaluronic acid as well as those that promote the production of collagen. If you are not sure about which is the right option, we can help.
Give yourself the chance to look and feel your best with dermal fillers. Contact us today to speak with experts about the many cosmetic injectables we can offer.
