Injectable Fillers

As we age, not only does our skin get looser, but we lost volume in certain areas as well.  We become much flatter in the mid face, the area under our eyes.  This can result in a very tired look.  We also develop deeper folds in the cheeks extending from the nose to the mouth, and lines extending downward from the corners of the mouth, giving us a sad, unhappy look.  And then there are the “elevens” the vertical lines we develop between the brows.

In the past, collagen was a popular filler, but it required skin testing and lasted only about 3 months.  Over the last several years there have been many synthetic fillers developed that have less sensitivity reactions and last longer.

Juvederm™ is a hyaluronic acid that is a soft, clear gel that can be used in many areas of the face, especially in and around the mouth.  It can be used to enhance the lips, either just giving them more definition, or also adding to their fullness and shape.  It can help turn up the corners of the mouth.  It is also used for depressed scars such as acne scars, and in wrinkles or folds in the cheeks or between the brows.  Juvederm will last about 1 year.

Radiesse™, which is a calcium hydroxyapam product, is used frequently in the mid face areas to build up the cheek bones and help get rid of the tired look.  It can also be used in deeper fold.  It will usually last about a year.

Sculptra is a different kind of filler in that it gives a more gradual result.  It is tiny particles that will stimulate you to make collagen.  It will slowly build up, and usually requires 2 to 3 sessions to achieve a good result, that will last 2 or more years.  It is used all over the face except around the mouth, and can help build up the cheek bones, hollows in the cheeks, or reshape a chin.

Which filler is best?
At your consultation, Dr. Wray will listen to your concerns and goals, evaluate your facial features and suggest different options to help achieve your goal.  Fillers are often used in conjunction with other procedures such as mini facelifts, Botox Cosmetic®, or laser resurfacing.  They type of filler used will depend on your particular issues and goals.

Fillers are placed into or under the skin by injections.  Numbing medicine is mixed with the fillers, and the area is further anesthetized with ice or a nerve block.