In the ever-evolving world of aesthetic medicine, dermal fillers have emerged as a game-changer. These minimally invasive treatments provide an attractive alternative to surgical procedures, offering immediate results in enhancing facial contours, smoothing wrinkles, and restoring lost volume. This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know about dermal fillers.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers, a type of gel-like substance, are skillfully injected beneath the skin to address various concerns effectively. They are primarily used in cosmetic procedures to combat signs of ageing and improve overall facial aesthetics.
The results of dermal fillers are often visible immediately after the procedure and can last from several months to a couple of years, depending on the type of filler used and the individual’s skin type. Despite being a minimally invasive procedure, it should always be performed by a qualified medical professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.
What to Expect During a Dermal Filler Procedure
The journey towards a more youthful appearance typically begins with a detailed consultation where the provider and patient discuss aesthetic goals. The provider will then evaluate the patient’s facial appearance and skin tone, identifying areas that will benefit from treatment.
The procedure itself involves using a tiny needle to inject the filler into the specified areas. Depending on the type of filler and the areas treated, results can be seen immediately or develop over time, offering a tailored approach to aesthetic enhancement.
Benefits of Dermal Fillers
While wrinkle reduction is a notable benefit of dermal fillers, their use extends beyond merely ironing out lines. Here are some of these benefits:
- Wrinkle Reduction: According to Dr Ng Hong Yi, an experienced aesthetic doctor in Singapore, dermal fillers smooth out wrinkles and fine lines by adding volume beneath the skin, which reduces the appearance of age-related lines and results in a smoother, more youthful complexion.
- Enhancement of Facial Contours: These fillers enhance shallow contours in the face, providing a more defined and structured appearance. This helps to balance the facial features and create a more harmonious look.
- Lip Augmentation: For individuals seeking fuller lips, dermal fillers can add volume to thin lips, subtly enhancing their shape and size without invasive surgery.
- Improvement of Recessed Scars: By injecting filler material into recessed scars, the skin’s surface becomes more even, helping to reduce the visibility of the scar.
- Facial Deformity Reconstruction: In cases of facial deformities caused by injury or congenital conditions, dermal fillers can be used to reconstruct the affected areas, restoring a more natural appearance.
- Removal of Lower Lid Shadows: Dermal fillers can decrease or even completely remove dark circles or shadows under the eyes, resulting in a fresher, more alert appearance.
- Non-Surgical Facial Rejuvenation: One of the most attractive aspects of dermal fillers is the non-surgical option for facial rejuvenation. This allows individuals to enjoy the benefits of a more youthful and enhanced appearance without invasive procedures or lengthy recovery times.
Types of Dermal Fillers
There are many types of dermal fillers available, each designed to address specific aesthetic needs. Let’s delve deeper into each type.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance, nourishes the skin, enhances moisture retention, promotes softness, and imparts volume. Its compatibility with the human body makes HA fillers a popular choice for patients seeking to reduce the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and folds, enhance the lips, or lift and contour cheeks.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers
Calcium hydroxylapatite is a mineral-like compound found naturally in human bones. In dermal fillers, microscopic CaHA particles are suspended in a smooth gel to create a product that can be sculpted to provide lift and volume. These fillers are known for their long-lasting results, often used to restore volume in areas with deeper lines and wrinkles.
Poly-L-lactic Acid Fillers
Poly-L-lactic acid is a biocompatible (meaning it is safe to use in the body), biodegradable synthetic substance. These fillers work differently than other dermal fillers because they help stimulate your skin to produce more collagen, gradually increasing skin thickness. They can treat deep facial wrinkles and folds and increase the volume of thinning facial areas.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillers
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic, biocompatible medical substance for much of the last century. PMMA creates a “microsphere” or minuscule ball that remains under the skin indefinitely within dermal fillers. This microsphere serves as a constant source of support, ensuring long-lasting results. These fillers offer semi-permanent results and are often used to treat medium-to-deep wrinkles, folds, and furrows, particularly nasolabial folds.
Aftercare and Longevity of Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers require appropriate aftercare to ensure the best possible results and longevity. Here are some of the key points to note:
Aftercare for Dermal Fillers
- Following a dermal filler treatment, it’s normal to experience some redness, swelling, or tenderness in the treated area. This is a typical result of the injections and will generally disappear within a few days.
- It’s recommended not to apply anything to the skin until the day after treatment. This includes cleansers, moisturisers, and other skincare products.
- A gentle approach to skincare post-filler is crucial. This helps to avoid any unnecessary irritation to the treated areas.
Enhancing the Longevity of Dermal Fillers
- The longevity of dermal fillers can be enhanced by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes balanced nutrition, hydration, regular exercise, and a consistent skincare regimen.
- Depending on the type of filler used, a follow-up session every six to 12 months can help maintain the desired appearance.
- Generally, hyaluronic acid-based fillers, like Juvéderm and Restylane, can last six months to two years. Thicker formulations may last even longer.
- While dermal fillers provide immediate results, they may take a few weeks to settle into place fully.
Final Thoughts
In summary, dermal fillers offer a versatile and effective solution for various aesthetic concerns. Their simplicity, affordability, and ability to achieve immediate and noticeable improvements make them a popular choice for those looking to enhance their appearance without undergoing invasive procedures. Whether you’re dealing with the signs of ageing or simply wish to optimise your aesthetic balance, dermal fillers could be the answer you’ve been seeking.
