Wrinkles may be a part of the intrinsic aging process that no one can avoid. Facial fillers are an alternative to other cosmetic treatments, such as Botox injections, to plump up the skin and smooth out wrinkles. So specialized is this art of cosmetic remediation that dermatologists receive training on injection techniques best suited for a particular type of filler, as well as which filler combination yields the most natural-looking results, notes the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
Types of Fillers
The AAD notes that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of many types of fillers. Most facial fillers, such as those that use collagen, hyaluronic acid gel, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) or self-donated (autologous) fat can give patients almost instantaneous results. However, a filler that uses poly-L-lactic acid yields slightly delayed results because rather than filling the skin, it causes the skin to produce collagen.
How Long They Last
Facial fillers for wrinkles are most effective when used on the skin around the eyes and mouth, says the AAD. Facial fillers don't last forever; however, many fillers give results that last considerably longer than wrinkles treated with Botox injections, which exert an effect for only three to four months. One filler, PMMA, gives permanent results. Poly-L-lactic acid and self-donated fat typically last between one and three years, says the AAD. Collagen fillers give the shortest-term results, lasting between three and six months before another treatment is required.
How It's Done
Before a facial filler is used, a consultation with a dermatologist is necessary to assess the patient's general health, as well as any medications the patient is taking, notes the AAD. Treatment usually takes between 15 to 30 minutes. The skin is numbed with ice or a topical anesthetic---the AAD notes that in some cases, a nerve block will be used to numb the area around the skin to be treated. Even when the patient's own fat is used as a filler, the process of taking fat from another part of the body and injecting into the desired area can often be accomplished in a single day.
Possible Side Effects
Normal side effects of fillers include redness, swelling and minor bruising, which can be reduced by applying ice to the skin after treatment. The AAD cautions patients that more serious side effects can occur if someone other than a physician injects fillers, such as lumping in the skin, over-filling and unnatural-looking ridges. Infection can also occur.
Other Alternatives
In addition to facial fillers and Botox injections, the Mayo Clinic cites a number of cosmetic treatments that reduces wrinkles, including dermabrasion and microdermabrasion, chemical peels, laser resurfacing, and the most invasive form of wrinkle repair, the surgical face lift. However, prescription retinoid creams, such as Renova, Retin-A, Avage and Tazorac, also eliminate fine lines, as well as improve skin tone and texture, when used on an ongoing basis.
Member Comments