Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines and soften creases, or enhance facial contours. They are a type of nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that plumps up wrinkles, smooths lines, and restores volume in the face. Dermal fillers are used to diminish facial lines and restore volume and fullness in the face, as our faces naturally lose subcutaneous fat as we age. They can also be used to plump thin lips, enhance shallow contours, soften facial creases and wrinkles, and improve the appearance of scars.
There are several types of dermal fillers, including hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and poly-L-lactic acid. Hyaluronic acid is the most common filler used in cosmetic facial procedures, as it is a natural component of the skins connective tissue and can soften fine lines and creases and restore fullness to the skin. The effects of most FDA-approved dermal fillers are temporary because they are made from materials that the body eventually breaks down and absorbs. The injection procedure may have to be repeated to maintain the desired effect.
It is important to work with a licensed healthcare provider who is experienced in injecting dermal fillers, knowledgeable about fillers, anatomy, managing complications, and most importantly, tells you about the risks and benefits before receiving treatment. As with any cosmetic procedure, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, and bruising. It is also important to remember that dermal fillers are temporary treatments for facial aging and that ongoing treatments will be needed for long-term results.
