Age and exposure to the sun can lead to facial lines and wrinkles, and if you’re seeking a way to refresh your skin, dermal fillers might be the ideal solution for you. These injectable substances work by filling in wrinkles and creases and enhancing your facial volume. At Glacier ENT & Hearing Services, our dedicated dermatology team is here to help you achieve an appearance that makes you feel confident.
What Can Fillers Achieve?
Dermal fillers can help alleviate early signs of aging, such as thin lips, shallow contours, lower lid shadows and facial wrinkles and creases. However, as these are temporary solutions, some patients may find surgeries, such as facelifts, more beneficial. Your provider will discuss these options with you to determine the most suitable treatment path for your individual needs.
Types of Fillers
- Calcium hydroxyapatite, a natural protein found in skin and tissues, reduces creases and enhances facial fullness. Some of its brand names include Radiesse®.
- Hyaluronic acid, a natural lubricating gel produced by the body, typically improves acne scars, crow’s feet, scars, and frown or worry lines. Its brand names include Captique™, Esthélis®, Elevess™, Hylaform®, Juvéderm®, Perlane®, Prevelle™, Puragen™ and Restylane®.
- Polyalkylimide, a biocompatible filler used for treating wrinkles, plumping lips and improving facial volume.
- Polylactic acid, a synthetic filler, boosts the body’s collagen production and is commonly used to improve skin creases, laugh lines and thin lips. Sculptra® is a brand name.
- Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres, or PMMA, treat deeper wrinkles and folds, as well as thin lips. It is also known as Bellafill®.
- Fat injections utilize fat harvested from the patient’s body, which is then reinjected to enhance facial fullness or creases.
Understanding the Procedure
Fillers are an outpatient procedure completed in a doctor’s office with local or topical anesthesia. Depending on the number and size of the areas treated, the procedure can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. Results are usually noticeable immediately.
Before starting the procedure, our team will discuss potential side effects and how to manage them. These may include:
- Infection
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Redness
- Pain, numbness
- Itching and rash
- Skin nodules
- Abscesses
- Flu-like symptoms
- Allergic reactions
The Longevity of Fillers
Results from fillers generally last from four months to a year. Over time, the body gradually absorbs the filler, causing the skin to revert to its natural state. Your doctor will provide an estimate of how long your specific treatment will last, as well as discuss options for subsequent injections.
At Glacier ENT & Hearing Services, our providers are ready to join you on your aesthetic journey. Whether you’re already interested in fillers or want more information, we’re here to help.
Call Glacier ENT & Hearing Services for more information or to schedule an appointment.