Dermal fillers are gaining popularity in the U.S. More than 3 million people opt to have dermal fillers injected each year, according to the Cleveland Clinic. With so much chatter surrounding them, it’s natural to wonder about the benefits of these products. Understanding exactly what a dermal filler is and addressing potential safety concerns can help you make informed choices.
What Is a Dermal Filler?
A dermal filler is a substance that is injected under the skin in an elective, nonsurgical cosmetic procedure. Dermal fillers temporarily add volume. They are used for several purposes:
- Erasing fine lines and diminishing wrinkles
- Jawline contouring
- Lifting a downturned mouth
- Plumping lips
- Filling deep creases
- Restoring volume to cheeks
- Adding fullness to the area below the eyes
- Making facial features appear more symmetrical.
Why Are Facial Fillers So Popular?
Fillers are rarely covered by insurance. However, these elective procedures are in demand because they can deliver great results without hassle.
When done by a skilled provider, appointments for nonsurgical fillers normally take 30 to 60 minutes. The timing depends on the person, the number of injections, and the type of filler used.
Results are typically visible immediately, and recovery time is minimal. Patients can return to their regular activities with almost no downtime. How long do fillers last? Again, it depends on the person and the filler. Generally, fillers provide results that last for months or years.
Are There Different Kinds of Fillers?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved several different fillers. They are generally categorized by the materials they contain.
- Hyaluronic acid is a sugar that occurs naturally within the body.
- Calcium hydroxylapatite is a mineral that is found in bone.
- Poly-L-lactic acid is a biodegradable synthetic, so the body gradually absorbs it over time in the same way that fillers crafted from naturally occurring materials are.
Are Fillers Safe?
Dermal Fillers are normally considered safe when administered under the proper circumstances. How can you be sure that any injections of fillers you undergo are safe? Follow these steps:
- Accept only FDA-approved face fillers.
- Work with a healthcare provider with the proper training to provide the injections. After all, obtaining the best results requires planning and skill.
- Talk with your provider about the risks and benefits of any procedure. Ask questions. Move forward only when you feel comfortable.
- Never buy any fillers sold to the public or attempt to inject yourself with such products.
At Wekiva Dental, we aim to provide a menu of services that help our patients enjoy the best quality of life, health, and self-image. As part of our efforts, we’re delighted to offer dermal fillers for cosmetic purposes. The Juvederm line of fillers uses hyaluronic acid to achieve things like enhancing volume, easing fine lines, and boosting confidence. To discuss the possibilities that Juvederm injections offer, schedule an appointment with Dr. Brambila at Wekiva Dental today.