Here’s Your Guide to Dermal Fillers!

When it comes to cosmetic procedures, dermal fillers are becoming an increasingly popular option. According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, more than 1 million people get dermal fillers each year, and this number is only rising. Healthcare professionals use dermal fillers to address signs of aging, cosmetic asymmetries, or enhance features. If you are considering getting dermal fillers, continue reading. Here’s what you should know!

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are often put in the same category as BOTOX because they are both used for cosmetic purposes. However, this can be misleading. BOTOX works by relaxing the muscles that are being overworked, while dermal fillers restore lost collagen. Ultimately, dermal fillers are just collagen that can be injected into sunken areas of the face, resulting in a “plumping” effect in that area.

What Are Dermal Fillers Used?

Dermal fillers are most commonly injected by professionals to:

• Add volume to the skin.
• Soften fine lines, wrinkles, and creases.
• Reduce the appearance of age spots, scars, and other textural concerns.

This cosmetic procedure can also help to plump the lips, minimize the appearance of undereye circles, smooth out the nose bridge, add volume to the cheeks, correct asymmetries, and smooth out the neck.

What to Expect from the Procedure

Every treatment can look a little bit different depending on the type of filler that is being injected and where it is going. Here is what the process generally consists of:

1. Site Preparation: Your dentist will clean and disinfect the injection site. They may also make some marks on the injection area.
2. Anesthetic: Sometimes, a cold instrument, anesthetic ointment, or local anesthetic is applied to prevent discomfort. This will depend on the procedure and your preference.
3. Injection: Your dentist will inject the targeted areas with dermal filler. Each injection should take less than a minute. They may also massage the area to disperse the filler. Depending on the number of areas you are having treated, the process could take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.
4. Healing: You may receive a cold compress to reduce pain and inflammation after the injection, but you can continue the rest of your day as usual. The injection sites may feel sore for a few days, but most patients are able to recover without the need for pain relievers.

Dermal fillers are minimally invasive, and an easy way to reduce signs of aging, reverse skin damage, and correct other aesthetic concerns. Results can last anywhere from a few months to several years. If you think you could benefit from dermal filler, reach out to your dentist. This way, you can discuss your concerns and put together a plan that best meets your needs.

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Nowacki earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 2004 and has been working hard to serve patients ever since. To keep up with all the modern techniques and technology modern dentistry has to offer, he is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. To learn more about dermal fillers or to schedule an appointment at his office in Palm Bay, visit his website or call (321) 724-9300.