There is a pretty good chance that you’ve heard of dermal fillers at some point or another. These products have grown immensely popular all around the world. In fact, they’ve become the first line of defense against aging. Anyone who is interested in improving the appearance of their face and rolling back time should definitely think about using dermal fillers. These products can undoubtedly help the patient achieve the ultimate beautification that they’re after. So, what exactly are dermal fillers? What are the risks involved? What are the various types? You’ll find out in the comprehensive guide below.
The Basics Of Dermal Fillers
Before learning more about the different types of dermal fillers, you should learn about the basics in general. What are dermal fillers? Well, they’re nothing more than a collagen material, which is produced using natural or synthetic substances. Cosmetic fillers are primary designed to be injected into the dermis. In return, this makes them a good choice for augmenting soft tissues. There are plenty of different types of dermal fillers. Nevertheless, they all achieve the same goals. They do have some differences though. Their duration and price tend to be most notable differences.
Dermal fillers are also referred to as injectable implants, wrinkle fillers and soft tissue fillers. These medical device implants have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for certain uses. More details about that will be provided below.
Why Dermal Fillers?
So, why would anyone want to use dermal fillers? The truth of the matter is that fillers offer a wealth of benefits that cannot be found anywhere else. A facelift is one option, but many people do not want to go under the knife. Plus, you should not need to until you reach at least 50. Facial fillers are really a better solution. These products can help you maintain a youthful face until a full face lift becomes necessary. Injectable fillers are also very convenient and safe. There is very little recovery time. After the injections have been completed, you’ll be free to return to your normal life.
It is also true that dermal fillers are often much cheaper than the other options.
Approved Uses
You should know that the Food and Drug Administration has approved dermal fillers for certain uses. There are other potential uses, which have not been approved. First and foremost, these products can be used for hand augmentation, lip and cheek augmentation, correction of facial fast loss, correction of cheek acne scars and the correction of nasolabial folds. The FDA has also approved dermal fillers made using temporary materials for rectification of facial wrinkles and skin folds.
The FDA confirms that patients may need several injections to get the smoothing effects that they desire. At the same time, successful results will depend on several factors including the skin’s health, the experience of the doctor and the type and quantity of the filler used. The duration of the results will depend on the injection site and the filler used.
Non-Approved Uses
Again, it is possible that dermal fillers may eventually be beneficial for other beauty purposes. However, they have not been approved for these treatments. At this point in time, the FDA has not approved the use of dermal fillers for increasing the breast or buttocks size. The FDA does not recommend or approve dermal fillers for enhancing the fullness of the feet or implantation into bones, tendons, muscles or ligaments. Nevertheless, fillers can be a great addition to any beauty regimen.
Potential Risks
While dermal fillers are a good idea for a lot of people, there are some risks involved. There is no doubt that dermal fillers can eliminate the fine lines and wrinkles on your face. Just make sure that you’re aware of the risks ahead of time. There are some short and long-term risks involved. If the injections are not performed correctly, you may even experience permanent side effects. Most people will experience several negative effects right after the injection. These problems will usually dissipate and disappear within a short period of time. Before undergoing dermal filler injections, you should be aware of your allergies.
After all, some facial fillers are actually made using animal materials. Synthetic fillers are available, so you can still reap the beauty benefits even if you are allergic to these animal derived substances.
Most Common Side Effects
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Mild pain
- Injection site tenderness
- Itching
- Redness
These are some riskier, but less common side effects as well.
Less Common Problems
- Bumps forming underneath the skin. They may need to be removed surgically.
- Infection
- Draining wounds
- Tissue death or necrosis
- Allergic reaction
- Sore developing at the injection site
It should also be known that there are some rare side effects which have been reported to the FDA. They include anaphylactic shock, stroke, damage to the lips and skin, vision abnormalities and migration of the filler from the injection site.
Being Cautious
You should already know how cautious you need to be with your beauty routine. You have to be downright meticulous. The same can be said for getting injections with dermal fillers. You cannot be haphazard or you’re going to regret it in the near future. To ensure that you’re able to enhance your looks without experience severe problems, you should make sure that you choose the right filler and the right doctor. MayLips offers a wealth of dermal fillers that have been approved by the FDA. Getting tested for animal allergies in advance is recommended.
If you are allergic to certain animal products, you should stick with synthetic fillers. Also, you need to carefully research the surgeons in your area. Make sure that you choose someone who has plenty of experience injecting dermal fillers. Injections should only happen in the clinic and not at a motel somewhere. Finally, you should make sure that you’re actually healthy. Being healthy will reduce the risks involved. Dermal fillers can undoubtedly enhance your appearance, but you need to be very cautious when choosing your filler and your doctor.
When To Avoid Injectable Fillers
When it comes down to it, cosmetic fillers are not going to be suitable for everyone at every time. If you’re dealing with specific problems, you should probably hold off for the time being. For instance, if you have inflamed or infected skin, you should avoid getting injected. The same can be said for people dealing with pimples, rashes, hives or cysts. If you have a bleeding disorder, you should most definitely steer clear of dermal fillers.
Those with severe allergies and excessive scarring should also be cautious. These problems combined with dermal fillers can create grave risks that are best avoided.
Choosing The Right Type Of Dermal Fillers
If you want to enhance the appearance of your face, you really need to make sure that you’re choosing the best dermal filler for you. There are several different types of dermal fillers and they’re not all equal. Choosing the right filler is just as important as making sure that you choose the right physician. There are many factors to take into consideration, but the two most important include longevity and budget. These factors will be explored in more detail below.
Price
There is no doubt that you would do anything to make yourself more attractive and beautiful. Nevertheless, there is a good chance that you cannot spend freely. This is entirely acceptable and very common. The good news is that the prices of dermal fillers are very diverse. Before moving forward, you need to set a budget for this beauty expenditure. There are much cheaper fillers, but they may not last as long as the alternatives. Either way, there are plenty of options and you should easily be able to find a specific type that suits your budgetary requirements.
Duration
Duration or longevity is also important. If you choose a shorter lasting dermal filler, there is a good chance that you’re going to have to get many injections over the years to maintain the desirable results. Again, longevity and cost will correlate very closely. More expensive fillers will usually last longer and vice versa. There are semi-permanent fillers for patients who do not want multiple injections over the years. Consider all of your options and make sure that you get the right one for your individualistic needs.
It is also a good idea to consult with a doctor. They’ll be able to provide you with the knowledge and guidance needed to make the right choice.
Types Of Injectable Dermal Fillers
There are a variety of dermal fillers on the market, including hyaluronic acid, polyalkylimide, Polylactic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite and Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres. Each of these dermal fillers is unique, in where they are derived from and effectiveness. However, they all work basically in the same manner, with some lasting longer than others. Each also has a unique price, depending on their ingredients and how long they last.
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite – is a natural compound found in human bones. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved calcium hydroxylapatite for treating marionette and frown lines, as well as nasolabial folds. It is also utilized to enhance the facial features, such as the cheeks. Some medical experts also utilize it to treat facial wasting in patients with HIV. As a biosynthetic-produced dermal filler, calcium hydroxlapatite is not derived from animals or animal products, reducing the risks of allergic reaction. Initially, this dermal filler was utilized in reconstructive surgery and dentistry.
- Hyaluronic Acid – is a natural substance found in the vitreous body, the gel that fills the area between the retina and lens, human connective tissue and cartilage. The FDA has approved hyaluronic acid for the treatment of crow’s feet, deep smile lines, frown lines near the eyebrows, marionette lines, lip redefinition, burn scars, worry lines (forehead) and burn scars on the face. It has also been approved to treat pain associated with arthritis. Some physicians will inject between the joints in the knee to provide extra cushioning and east arthritic pain. As one of the most popular injectable dermal fillers, hyaluronic acid filler treatment costs $600 on average. However, it is not unusual to see a price tag of $1,200 attached to some brands.
- Polyalkylimide – is radio transparent and biocompatible, so allergy tests are not required prior to treatment. The FDA has approved polyalkylimide for the treatment of nasolabial folds, thin lips, HIV-related facial wasting, cheekbone and jawline enhancements and deep wrinkles. The biggest benefit of this injectable dermal filler is it can be removed. It works by gradually forming a very thin layer of collagen near the injection sites. It is most often injected in large volumes and can fill a larger area than other types of dermal fillers.
- Polylactic Acid – is a biodegradable, non-toxic substance that has been utilized for many years as a suture material. Polylactic acid, a stimulator, works by boosting collagen the body’s collagen production over several months. So, unlike some types of injectable dermal fillers, polylactic acid does not produce immediate results. The FDA has approved polylactic acid for the treatment of thin lips, nasolabial folds and smile lines. To achieve the desired results, patients must undergo three months of treatment.
- Polymethyl-Methacrylate Microsphers – is semi-permanent injectable dermal filler utilized to treat moderate-to-deep skin folds, furrows and wrinkles. It is also utilized for lip augmentation and permanent surgical implants.
Choosing The Best Physician Possible
While dermal fillers are virtually safe for the most part and the procedure doesn’t require much down time, it does come with some benefits to know that you are utilizing a professional and certified surgeon. These surgeons not only have to make dermal fillers in-house, but they have to ensure that they are mixing in the right amount of filler to suit your very specific needs. And, on top of this they have to make 100 percent sure that you are a suitable client for the procedure. As you can see, a dermal filler physician has a lot of responsibilities when it comes to caring for your health and safety. So, choosing the surgeon with the most training and qualifications is always a necessity.
Don’t just research the facility. Research the individual doctors as well. Get names and license numbers during your consultation.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, there are plenty of reasons to use facial fillers. However, you also need to understand that there are some risks involved. Dermal fillers are undoubtedly beneficial to any beauty routine. Nevertheless, the risks can be grave if you’re not careful. If you want to enhance your beauty without facing grave risks, you need to do your research and choose the right filler and doctor. Do that and you’ll be able to wipe away those ugly fine lines and wrinkles while maintaining maximum peace of mind.
