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Facial fillers are substances injected beneath the skin to help lessen fine lines and boost facial volume.
The appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and other skin imperfections are all a natural part of the aging process for many. Many of the treatment options require surgery or perhaps utilize methods that can be relatively taxing on the individual. While this can be frustrating, you can rest assured that there are plenty of noninvasive treatment options out there that can help you achieve a more youthful look with minimal recovery time. Dr. Amber Allen and Allen Aesthetic Surgery are the best in the business when it comes to facial rejuvenation procedures, offering the latest in innovative treatments.
If you are seeking a more youthful facial look without the risks associated with surgical procedures, you might be a candidate for the facial filler treatments offered by Dr. Allen and her team. Contact Dr. Allen and the Allen Aesthetic Surgery staff to schedule a personal consultation by calling (919) 676-5052.
Contents
About Facial Fillers
Facial fillers are injectable treatments that intend to reverse the signs of aging in the face by restoring lost volume and eliminating wrinkles. Over time, the body’s production of collagen and elastin declines, leading to sagging skin and hollowed areas. Facial fillers work by replenishing these essential components, effectively reversing the visible effects of aging.
There are several different types of facial fillers, each of which has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Dr. Allen and her staff use a variety of facial fillers to address specific concerns and help you achieve your specific goals. Facial fillers have been around for centuries, and this treatment is considered a safe and effective way to increase facial volume. (1) Each treatment is tailored to the individual’s unique anatomy and aesthetic preferences, ensuring satisfying results that also appear natural.
Is Bellafill Right For Me?
Bellafill is made of microspheres of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) suspended in a base of bovine collagen. The PMMA microspheres provide a scaffold for the growth of new collagen, which helps to improve the skin’s structure and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Initial volume is provided by the collagen present in the produce, but with time, the collagen is absorbed by the body and new collagen is produced around the microspheres. Bellafill is the best dermal filler on the market to address acne scarring, but it can also improve the contours of the cheeks, smile lines, and chin. [2] It is a long-term treatment, and the results can last several years.
How Does Bellafill Form New Collagen?
Collagen is a protein that helps to support the skin and gives it structure. When Bellafill is injected into the skin, it creates a scaffold for the skin’s own collagen to grow around. The microspheres in the filler are made of a biocompatible and semi-permanent material that remains in the skin. Over time, the body’s own collagen fibers grow around the PMMA microspheres, creating a natural-looking and long-lasting result.
What do fillers provide to replenish volume in an aging face?
Many of the fillers, such as Restylane, RHA and VERSA are made from hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance that helps to hydrate and plump the skin. There are many different viscosities of fillers allowing treatments in various areas of the face. Thicker substances are used in the deeper tissues for volume restoration while the more pliable or thinner fillers allow softening of fine lines and wrinkles while still allowing natural animation of the face.
The human body contains a significant amount of hyaluronan, a water-loving polysaccharide that is found in many connective tissues. This substance creates a swelling pressure that allows the skin to withstand compressive forces; this makes hyaluronan an ideal component for maintaining the proper structure and function of tissues by adding volume, lubricating surfaces, influencing cell integrity, and proliferation. One of the key advantages of hyaluronan as a skin filler is that its chemical structure is consistent across species, reducing the risk of immunological reactions and rejection. [3]
How Long Do Hyaluronic Fillers Last?
The majority of these types of dermal fillers typically last between 6 to 12 months. The longevity of the product may vary based on factors such as the patient’s age, skin type, and lifestyle habits. The longevity of the product may also be affected by the amount of product used and the technique used during the treatment. Hyaluronic acid is metabolized by the body after time, so touch-up treatments may be needed to maintain the desired results.
Benefits of Facial Fillers
Facial fillers offer a wide range of benefits for individuals, both physical and mental. The procedure itself provides its own set of benefits as well. One of the most notable advantages of facial filler treatments is their ability to produce noticeable results quickly, often within minutes of treatment. Unlike surgical procedures, fillers require minimal downtime, allowing patients to resume their daily activities shortly after their appointment.
- Increased facial volume
- Decreased wrinkles
- More defined facial structure
- Long-lasting results
In addition to the physical benefits, facial filler procedures can provide several mental benefits to patients as well. The boost in self-confidence associated with achieving your desired facial aesthetic can potentially improve your overall well-being.
Ideal Candidates
Many people choose facial fillers to reverse various signs of aging and achieve a more refreshed look. Facial fillers are suitable for a wide range of individuals looking to improve their appearance without undergoing surgery. Ideal candidates are typically in good overall health and have realistic expectations about what the treatment can achieve. While this treatment appeals to a wide range of individuals, typical candidates are those suffering from the following:
- Fine Lines
- Wrinkles
- Loss of facial volume
- Facial asymmetry
Ultimately, your eligibility for facial filler procedures will be determined by Dr. Allen. While facial fillers are generally safe, Dr. Allen might recommend alternate procedures for individuals with certain conditions that may make someone ineligible for treatment, such as those with severe allergies to any components in the fillers or those with active skin infections in the treatment area. Whether or not you are an ideal candidate for facial filler procedures will be determined during your consultation with Dr. Allen.
Personal Consultation
The first step in your rejuvenation journey is a personal consultation with Dr. Allen. During this consultation, Dr. Allen will assess your facial structure, skin condition, and what you hope to accomplish with skin rejuvenation procedures to develop a personalized treatment plan designed to help you achieve your goals. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss your aesthetic goals and ask any questions you may have about the procedure.
Dr. Allen and her team are happy to go over the many different types of fillers available and how they can be used to achieve desired results. They might also recommend additional procedures to help you achieve your desired outcomes. Dr. Allen will also provide a list of information about what to expect before, during, and after the treatment. To schedule this personal consultation, contact Dr. Allen and her team by calling (919) 676-5052.
Preparation
Preparing for facial filler treatment at Allen Aesthetics Surgery is straightforward. On the day of your treatment, arrive with a clean face free of makeup or skincare products. Dr. Allen and her team may provide additional instructions tailored to your specific needs to ensure the best possible outcome.
Procedure
Facial filler treatments are quick and relatively painless, making them a fantastic option for people on the go. You can pop into the office on your lunch break and leave a different person. Dr. Allen may apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment area before the treatment to ensure your comfort. Once the area is numbed, the filler is carefully injected using a fine needle. The placement of the filler depends on the areas being treated and the desired results. Dr. Allen’s expertise in facial anatomy ensures precise application, allowing for natural-looking and balanced enhancements. Most appointments take about an hour or less depending on goals.
Recovery
One of the reasons facial fillers are so popular is their minimal recovery time. After the procedure, you may experience mild swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection sites, but these side effects typically subside within a few days. Most patients should be able to return to their normal daily functions almost immediately after their treatment. It is advised that patients do their best to avoid excessive sun exposure or the use of certain topical medications as directed by Dr. Allen in the days following treatment. Dr. Allen and her team will provide any necessary postoperative instructions to help you achieve the best results and ensure a smooth recovery.
Results
The results of facial filler treatments are often visible immediately, with improvements becoming continuously more evident during the recovery phase as swelling begins to dwindle. While results can never be guaranteed, most patients can expect to enjoy smoother and more youthful-looking skin within days of their appointment. The procedure methods offered by Dr. Allen and her staff are frequently associated with high satisfaction rates among patients. (2)
The results of facial fillers can vary depending on the product used and individual factors. Some fillers generally offer instant improvement, while others deliver results gradually as collagen production boosts over time.
While the longevity of results varies depending on the type of filler used and individual factors, most patients enjoy their enhancements for six months to two years. It is recommended that patients schedule frequent touch-up appointments to ensure lasting results. Regular consultations with Dr. Allen allow for adjustments to your treatment plan, ensuring consistent and satisfying outcomes over time.
Cost of Facial Fillers in Raleigh
The cost of facial filler treatments at Allen Aesthetics Surgery depends on several factors, including the type of filler used, the areas being treated, and whether or not any additional treatments are utilized. An estimate of the overall cost of your procedure can be discussed with Dr. Allen during your consultation.
Corresponding & Complementary Procedures
Some patients who choose dermal fillers for their cosmetic treatment, consider Botox an important close cousin for complementary treatment. Botox is a type of injectable treatment that uses a purified form of botulinum toxin to temporarily paralyze the muscles in the face. While dermal fillers add volume and plumpness to the skin, Botox can help to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines caused by muscle movement.
Dr. Allen offers various treatments for all of your cosmetic concerns. Ask her about Botox, or any of the cutting-edge treatments she offers such as laser resurfacing, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), and microneedling. These treatments can address a variety of skin concerns such as age spots, scarring, and uneven skin tone.
FAQ
Facial fillers are made from various substances. The most common is hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the skin. Other options include calcium hydroxylapatite and poly-L-lactic acid.
Depending on the type of filler used, results may last from six months up to two years. Hyaluronic acid fillers typically last around six to twelve months, while Sculptra can last longer due to its collagen-stimulating properties.
When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, facial fillers are generally considered safe. However, potential side effects like swelling, bruising, and allergic reactions can occur.
Yes, particularly with hyaluronic acid fillers, which can be dissolved through a specific enzyme injection called hyaluronidase if desired.
Most patients have minimal downtime and can resume daily activities almost immediately, although I may recommend avoiding intense physical activity for the first 24 hours.
Getting a facial filler is as easy as dropping by our office on your lunch break. Using a very fine needle, your filler will be injected just beneath the surface of your skin. You will experience little or no discomfort and can return to work immediately after the procedure.
References
- Clark NW, Pan DR, Barrett DM. Facial fillers: Relevant anatomy, injection techniques, and complications. World Journal of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. 2023;9(3):227-235. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/wjo2.126
- Molina B, David M, Jain R, et al. Patient Satisfaction and Efficacy of Full-Facial Rejuvenation Using a Combination of Botulinum Toxin Type A and Hyaluronic Acid Filler. Dermatologic Surgery. 2015;41(Supplement 1):S325-S332. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/dss.0000000000000548
*RESULTS MAY VARY