Facial Filler Questions
Am I a good candidate for a filler?
Fillers are best suited for patients who do not want surgery, but desire reduction or flattening of wrinkles or replacement of lost volume in certain areas. These include the lips, nasolabial folds, circles under the lower eyelids, cheeks, and the jawline in front of jowls. Some patients with complaints about their nasal appearance may also benefit from filler injections. If collagen is to be used, patients must show that they are not allergic to is by having a simple skin test performed four weeks before the injection. There are no medical contraindications to filler injections, but patients should not use blood thinning medications around the time of the injection to reduce potential bruising.
How do fillers work?
Fillers increase the volume of soft tissue, to create a more youthful contour and to flatten any overlying wrinkles.
When are the effects of fillers seen?
The effects of a filler are seen immediately, so the process can be stopped when you are happy with the result.
How long do fillers last?
Most fillers are temporary, and the duration of effect varies. The list of our fillers above gives their components and expected durations.
Will I be able to feel or see the filler after injection?
You will be able to feel the filler under your skin, but the only visible effects should be the cosmetic improvements created by the filler.
How many times can I have fillers injected?
There is no limit to the number of injections a patient can have over time.
Do filler injections ever become ineffective?
Since fillers simply add volume, they always have a consistent effect. However, as your face ages you may need different types or amounts of fillers.
When should I consider surgery instead of fillers?
Since the effects of most fillers are temporary, patients may eventually want to consider surgical procedures that can have a longer effect on wrinkle reduction and soft tissue enhancement. Also, fillers are not capable of lifting tissue.
What are the risks of filler injection?
Fillers are extremely safe. One risk of the injection process is bruising, which is rare and resolves quickly. Patients may also develop sensitivity to a particular filler, but this is very rare. Another potential risk is irregularity under the skin, which can be treated with massage or with removal of a small amount of filler. |
