What is Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers help to diminish facial lines and restore volume and fullness in the face.
As we age, our faces naturally lose subcutaneous fat. The facial muscles are then working closer to the skin surface, so smile lines and crow's feet become more apparent.
The facial skin also stretches a bit, adding to this loss of facial volume. Other factors that affect the facial skin include sun exposure, heredity and lifestyle.
What dermal fillers can do
- Plump thin lips
- Enhance shallow contours
- Soften facial creases and wrinkles
- Improve the appearance of recessed scars
- Reconstruct contour deformities in the face
- Decrease or remove the shadow of the lower lids
Dermal fillers can be very helpful in those with early signs of aging, or as a value-added part of facial rejuvenation surgery.
What dermal fillers can't do
For some patients, surgery such as a facelift, brow lift or eye lift may be the best approach. Nonsurgical rejuvenation treatments, such as soft tissue fillers, cannot achieve the same results, but may help delay the time when consideration of a facelift becomes appropriate. It is important to remember that dermal fillers are temporary treatments for facial aging and that ongoing treatments will be needed for long-term results.
Dermal Fillers cost
The average cost of dermal fillers vary.
Cost is always a consideration in elective procedure or treatment. The cost of dermal filler injections may vary based on the expertise and qualifications of the person performing the treatment, the type of procedure used, time and effort the procedure or treatment requires, as well as the geographic location of the office. Many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans, so be sure to ask.
Your satisfaction involves more than a fee.
When choosing a plastic surgeon for dermal filler injections, remember that the surgeon's experience and your comfort with him or her are just as important as the final cost of the procedure.
The following is a list of the average cost of several popular types of dermal fillers, these are priced as a per syringe cost. Most patients need multiple syringes to achieve desired results.
- Hyaluronic acid (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero): AU$600
Health insurance does not cover dermal fillers, but many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans, so be sure to ask.
Choose a professional
Although tissue augmentation with dermal fillers is a quick, in-office procedure that can produce a marked improvement in restoring facial fullness and a more youthful appearance, effective and safe use requires a physician with specialized training and a thorough understanding of facial anatomy to recommend and inject an appropriate filler. Significant complications can occur with dermal fillers, as with any medical procedure, so being treated by a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential for your safety and good outcomes.
Dermal Fillers Candidates
You may be a good candidate for dermal fillers if you:
- Are physically healthy
- Have a positive mind and realistic goals for the improvement of your appearance
- Are committed to maintaining good skin health
For some patients, surgery such as a facelift, brow lift or eye lift may be the best approach.
Dermal Fillers Recovery
Recovery time varies for each patient and for each type of filler injected. You can resume most activities right away, but it is generally recommended that you avoid intense physical activity for the first 24-48 hours to minimize swelling and bruising. Be sure to discuss your specific recovery plan with your physician prior to scheduling your injections.
Your initial appearance after treatment with any dermal filler may include:
- An "overfilled" appearance to treated areas
- Swelling or bruising ranging from mild to severe
- Temporary numbness or redness
- Palpable lumps or hard areas at the injection sites
- Hypersensitivity reaction that can seem like an allergic reaction with hives and swelling
Most conditions can be alleviated with topical icing and massage and will improve within a matter of hours or just a few days. Some reactions may require more aggressive treatment with medications or injections. Be sure to discuss your recovery and treatment plan with your physician.
When your own fat is the injected filler, the healing process is longer and may take a few weeks. Get more information about fat injections.
Dermal Fillers Result
The results of soft tissue augmentation using dermal fillers are apparent immediately and will last from several months to several years depending on the filler used and the patient injected. Maintaining good overall health and maintaining healthy and strong skin with appropriate products and skin treatments will improve the results and longevity.
