InJectables
Skin or dermal fillers is the second most common non-surgical procedure performed in the US. Loss of facial volume is one of the key factors in having a more aged appearance. Fillers are used to add volume and fullness to the face which counteracts this volume loss and results in a more youthful appearance.
While there are and have been many different varieties of filler with varying levels of longevity ranging from a few months to permanent.
Hyaluronic acid: (Juvéderm® or Restylane®) This is the most commonly used filler. These create a smoothing and filling effect by increasing volume within the skin and pulling in water to the area.
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA): (Sculptra®) An alternative filler that contains which is a synthetic substance that stimulates your body’s own collagen production to add youthful volume to the skin.
Fat transfer: This is a process in which fat that is harvested from one area of the body is processed and placed in another part, giving more volume to the area.
How long do they last?
Hyaluronic acid: (Juvéderm® or Restylane®) The longevity of the HA fillers is based on the degree of cross-linking in the molecules and contributes to the level of “firmness” in the product. The more cross-linked the product is, the long it takes for the body to break it down and therefore the longer it lasts. The area of the body/face in which the filler is placed can also contribute to the speed at which the filler is broken down. Generally, HA fillers can last from 6-9 months but there have been some patients who have reported it lasting up to 2 years.
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA): (Sculptra®) Results for this can last up to 2 years but may take several sessions to achieve the desired goal.
Fat transfer: The degree of fat “take” or survival of the transferred fat in the new area is variable and dependent of several factors so some volume loss is expected when compared with the immediate results. However, once the fat engrafts or takes, that fat is relatively permanent.
see below for additional information
Additional Information
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Fillers have been FDA approved for use in various areas of the face to help with volume loss due to aging and wrinkles. However, it has been used in an off-label fashion all over the body to increase volume in the hands, chest, gluteal/butt areas with great success.
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After the planned treatment areas are determined, the areas are cleansed, and a topical anesthetic is applied to help with minimizing any potential pain/discomfort. After allowing the topical medication to sit for several minutes, it is wiped away and several small injections are performed to place the filler into its desired locations. Sometimes a cannula, or thin straw-like instrument is used to place the filler through a small poke hole in the skin.
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You might develop some swelling, bruising, redness, pain, or tenderness at the sight of injection once the anesthetic wears off and are self-limited. Some patients can develop lumps under the skin or skin discoloration. There are very rare instances of skin compromise or blindness if the filler is accidentally injected into an artery.
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The cost of fillers will be dependent on the type of filler and volume used but ranges anywhere from $400 - $850 per syringe.
Please note, we often have specials on injectables, so always be on the lookout!
Interested? Find out what’s next!
If you are interested in getting injectables like filler, and you reside in or near Washington, DC, or you are planning to visit this area, call Dr. Maiorino's office to schedule an initial consultation, or CLICK HERE to schedule now!
