If you’ve been searching for a minimally invasive way to achieve plump lips, full cheeks, and a contoured, youthful-looking complexion, dermal fillers may be right for you. Thanks to recent advancements in cosmetic dermatology, we now have the ability to keep skin looking youthful and supple without the need for invasive surgery.
Since they were cleared by the FDA for cosmetic use, dermal fillers have gained enormous popularity among women and men the world over for their ability to subtly enhance the face. But if you’re like many people considering these youth-enhancing, minimally invasive treatments, you have questions and possibly even concerns.
At Arijai Aesthetics, we specialize in a wide variety of cosmetic injectables and believe everyone should be well-informed about these treatments before they take the plunge. In this blog, we’re breaking down some of the most important things you should know if you’re considering dermal filler injections.
Fillers and Botox Are Not the Same
Dermal fillers are not the same as Botox or Dysport. The most commonly used fillers generally contain a substance called hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally-occurring compound found within the human body. Botox and Dysport, on the other hand, contain a neurotoxin that temporarily relaxes facial muscles.
Today, most of the hyaluronic acid used in cosmetic applications is synthesized, but it mimics the characteristics of naturally occurring HA. Hyaluronic acid has an incredible capacity to store moisture, which is what allows these types of fillers to give skin a fuller, more youthful appearance.
Unfortunately, as our bodies age, our natural production of HA begins to decline. To counterbalance the body's diminishing supply, we can inject HA-based fillers to temporarily replenish or plump up specific areas of the face. Properly placed and dosed HA fillers ultimately give the appearance of supple, contoured, youthful skin.
It’s also possible to have fillers and Botox at the same time. If you’re unfamiliar with how Botox works and want to learn more, definitely check out Curious About Botox? Here’s What You Need to Know.
Fillers Don’t Last Forever
One of the great things about fillers is that almost all of them are temporary. So if you’re considering getting your lips, cheeks, or something else filled in, you can try out the new look to see if it’s really your style.
If you’re love in love with the results, you’ll need to continue getting injections at specific intervals to maintain your look. If you want to make a few adjustments when your results begin to fade, you can do that, too. If you decide fillers aren’t for you, your body will absorb the injections over time and your natural look will return.
For more helpful information on fillers, check out Dermal Fillers: Dispelling 11 Common Myths.
Fillers Are Available in Different Formulations
Not all dermal fillers are hyaluronic acid-based. Rather, there are four different categories of fillers, each of which does something a bit different. Each type of product also has unique lasting abilities, so the type of filler you get will determine how long you can go between treatments before your results start to fade.
Here are the four categories of fillers listed by the Food and Drug Administration:
● Hyaluronic acid. These types of fillers typically last six to 12 months.
● Calcium hydroxylapatite. These fillers are mineral based and typically last up to 18 months.
● Polymethylmethacrylate. These fillers are considered permanent since the human body cannot absorb them. They’re typically only used around the mouth and must be surgically removed if you decide you no longer like their appearance.
● Poly-L-lactic acid. These fillers are bio-stimulatory, meaning they stimulate the production of endogenous collagen in the skin. They’re also biodegradable and typically last up to two years.
You’ll See Dramatic Results in No Time
One of the main reasons dermal fillers have become so popular is their ability to provide near-instant results. In just a single visit, dermal filler injections work to add volume and minimize lines for up to six months, depending on the treatment area.
The type of filler you choose will determine your timeline for achieving noticeable results, but in most cases, you should notice minor changes immediately. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers typically produce results right away, whereas collagen-stimulating fillers may require up to six months for full effect.
Recent research has also found that hyaluronic acid injections may help boost your natural collagen production when they’re repeatedly administered over time. And an increase in endogenously produced collagen will help keep your skin looking youthful long term.
An Experienced Injector is Non-Negotiable
Many individuals considering dermal filler injections express trepidation about the procedure, primarily because they’re fearful of what they’ll look like afterward. No doubt, you’ve heard horror stories about fillers gone wrong, but you can certainly avoid becoming one of those stories by doing your research.
In Minnesota, regulations surrounding medspa operations are somewhat lacking. And while anyone with a license can inject, that absolutely does not mean that anyone with a license can inject properly. Only an injector with extensive training and experience can determine the proper dosing and placement for your needs and goals. An incorrect dose, improper injection site, or improper injection depth can result in wonky-looking or even potentially harmful results.
If you want the best experience and results possible, it is imperative that you seek out a highly-trained and licensed professional. At Arijai Aesthetics, our highly-qualified aesthetic specialists have the experience necessary to deliver the beautiful results you deserve.
Get a Free Dermal Filler Consultation at Arijai Aesthetics
At Arijai Aesthetics, we take pride in delivering customized results for each and every one of our clients. If you’re ready to bring forth the skin you’ve always wanted, we’re here to guide you on your journey. Leave lines and wrinkles in the past with our wide selection of cosmetic injectables designed to give you the youthful appearance you desire.
To learn more or find out if you’re a candidate for dermal filler injections, go ahead and request a free consultation. If you have any questions, you can always reach our Burnsville, MN clinic at 952-435-0605.