Dr. Blake Raggio, Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
In March’s article we discussed the nuances of botulinum toxin and its powerful role in facial rejuvenation. This month we will discuss a similarly popular anti-aging procedure, dermal fillers. By the end of this article, I hope you will appreciate why the instant results, quick treatment time, and minimal downtime make fillers so appealing. What exactly is Facial Filler? Facial filler, herein referred to as “fillers,” includes a variety of FDA-approved products that can be used to restore a more youthful look to the face. Whilst a multitude of filler options exist, they can most easily be categorized by the substance they are made from, and include the following: Hyaluronic Acid, Calcium Hydroxylapatite, Poly-L-lactic Acid, Polymethylmethacrylate, and fat injections. Nowadays, several reliable filler options exist for the consumer to choose from and include Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero, Radiesse, RHA, Versa, and Sculptra. How does Filler work? In short, fillers do just as their name implies—they fill in hollows and depressions associated with age-related volume loss. Fillers also vary in their ability to absorb water, stimulate collagen, and “lift” surrounding tissues, all of which make them more suitable for different areas of the face. What areas of the face can be treated with Filler? Fillers can be used to soften folds, hollows, and wrinkles on the face, including these age-related problem areas: depressed forehead, hollowed temples, sunken eyes, deflated midface/cheeks, lines around the nose and mouth, decreased lip plump or pout, recessed chin, poorly defined jawline, jowls, and prominent neck creases. A more experienced injector may even utilize filler for reshaping the nose, coined “liquid rhinoplasty.” NOTE: Some of these treatments may be considered “off-label,” The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Facial Filler FAQ’s so please consult with a credentialed physician well-versed in facial anatomy and the various filler options available. What happens during a Filler treatment? For most people, filler injections are a quick in-office procedure (30 minutes) associated with minimal discomfort. In short, the area is cleansed, marked, and the filler of choice is precisely placed into the target area using a very fine needle or blunt-tipped cannula. For those concerned about discomfort, you may be relieved to hear that most filler preparations come premixed with lidocaine. It may also help to find an injector who offers ancillary measures to maximize your comfort, which include vibration devices, ice, or topical and/or regional anesthesia. How soon will I see results, and how long does it last? The beautiful thing about filler is that results are often immediate! Final results, however, typically take several days to “settle” but can vary depending on the product used, amount injected, and any associated swelling. Results may last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, but ultimately depend on a variety of factors including the product, the area injected, and the patient. Repeated “maintenance” injections every 12-18 months will help patients sustain their results for a longer period, sometimes requiring less amount of product during subsequent visits. Is Filler safe? Fillers for cosmetic use have an extremely high safety profile with minimal and temporary side effects including bruising, swelling, redness, or tenderness to the injection site. You may be prescribed a medicine, such as a steroid or an antihistamine, to lessen the chance of such
reactions. Rare but serious adverse events have been reported and may include skin necrosis, stroke, and blindness. It is also recommended to avoid treatment within 2 weeks of being sick, having dental work, or receiving a vaccine. Nevertheless, injectable fillers represent a safe and powerful tool for facial rejuvenation when in the hands of an experienced injector. What is the cost of Filler? Depending on the type and amount of product used, a 1 mL vial of filler (1/5 teaspoon) may cost anywhere between $400-900, usually enough for 1 treatment area (e.g., lips, chin, cheeks, tear troughs). You must remember, however, that you are paying for more than just the product, but rather the skill and expertise of the injector as well. Of note, more experienced injectors often require less product to obtain the desired result. In the end, a lower cost does not always equate to a better deal (or result!). When should I start getting Filler? There is no right or wrong age to begin filler treatments, though some folks may be better candidates than others. The first step involves finding a reputable and experienced injector with intimate knowledge of facial anatomy who can offer you a customized treatment plan (surgical and non-surgical) based on your aesthetic goals. As always, choose a surgeon whom you trust. There is nothing more important than the relationship you have with your doctor. In Good Health, Dr. Blake Raggio Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Alabama Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
334-373-3611 www.ALplasticsurgery.com Dr.Raggio@alplasticsurgery.com R ive r Re gio n Bo o m . co m
May 2022
BOOM!
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