As we age, our skin gradually loses its volume and elasticity, leading to the formation of wrinkles, fine lines, and a generally tired appearance.

Dermal fillers have become a popular and effective solution to combat these signs of aging, being effective in facial volume restoration and facial contour enhancement.

Keep reading to explore what dermal fillers are, the different concerns they address, the types of dermal fillers available, and, most importantly, the essential dos and don’ts of dermal filler aftercare for you to achieve the best possible results.

Understanding Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments designed to restore lost volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial features. These fillers are composed of various substances, with hyaluronic acid being the most common.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps maintain skin hydration and plumpness. When injected into the skin, dermal fillers work by adding volume to the targeted areas, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles and providing a more youthful look.

The procedure is minimally invasive and typically requires little to no downtime. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be used on various parts of the face, including the cheeks, lips, nasolabial folds, and under-eye areas, to achieve a rejuvenated and balanced appearance.

Concerns Addressed by Dermal Fillers

Injectable fillers such as dermal fillers can address a variety of aesthetic concerns, making them a versatile solution for those looking to enhance their appearance.

Here are some of the key issues that dermal fillers can effectively tackle:

• Volume Loss. One of the primary reasons people seek dermal fillers is to address volume loss in areas such as the cheeks and temples. As we age, the fat pads in our face diminish, leading to a sunken and aged appearance. Dermal fillers help to restore this lost volume, giving the face a fuller and more youthful look.
• Wrinkles and Fine Lines. Dermal fillers are highly effective in smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines, particularly around the mouth, eyes, and forehead. By filling in these lines, fillers can significantly reduce their appearance and provide a smoother complexion.
• Lip Augmentation. Many people turn to dermal fillers to enhance the shape and volume of their lips. Fillers can create fuller, more defined lips, and correct asymmetry, giving a natural and appealing look.
• Facial Contouring. Dermal fillers can be used to sculpt and contour the face, enhancing features such as the chin and jawline. This helps to achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing facial structure.
• Under-Eye Hollows. Hollows under the eyes can make a person look tired and aged. Dermal fillers can fill these areas, reducing dark circles and providing a more rested and youthful appearance.

Dermal Fillers We Offer

Choosing the right dermal filler is important to achieving your desired aesthetic results. At Robert Andrews Laser and Medical Aesthetics, we offer a variety of dermal fillers, each designed to address specific concerns and provide optimal outcomes.

Here’s a detailed look at the fillers we provide:

Juvederm® Family

• Voluma (cheek fillers) is specifically designed to add volume to the cheeks, giving you a more youthful and lifted appearance. Its thicker consistency makes it ideal for deeper injection to enhance the cheekbones and restore mid-face volume that diminishes with age.
• Vollure is used to soften moderate to severe facial lines and wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds. It provides subtle, long-lasting results by balancing the elasticity and firmness of the skin, making it a great choice for those seeking natural-looking wrinkle reduction.
• Vobella is perfect for enhancing the lips and smoothing the perioral lines, commonly known as “lipstick lines.” Its smoother consistency allows for precise application, ensuring a soft and natural finish with minimal swelling.
• Juvederm Ultra and Ultra Plus are versatile fillers used for various facial areas. Ultra is great for finer lines and subtle lip enhancements, while Ultra Plus is thicker and ideal for deeper facial folds and volumizing larger areas. Both provide smooth, long-lasting results.

Radiesse®

Radiesse® is a unique filler that not only provides immediate volume but also stimulates natural collagen production over time. It’s commonly used for deeper wrinkles and folds, as well as for hand rejuvenation, providing long-lasting and natural results

Restylane®

Restylane® offers a range of products tailored to different needs:

• Lyft. Adds volume to the cheeks and corrects deep wrinkles.
• Kysse. Designed specifically for lip enhancement, offering natural-looking volume and softness.
• Refyne. Ideal for treating moderate lines while maintaining natural facial expressions.
• Defyne. Addresses deeper lines and folds, providing a natural look and feel.

Bellafill®

Bellafill® is a long-lasting filler used to treat nasolabial folds and acne scars. It contains microspheres that stimulate collagen production, ensuring results that can last up to five years, making it a great choice for those seeking enduring improvements.

Sculptra®

Sculptra® is not your typical filler. It works gradually to replace lost collagen, providing subtle and natural-looking results over time. It’s ideal for those looking to improve facial volume and skin texture with a treatment that develops progressively.

Kybella®

Kybella® is a unique injectable used to reduce submental fullness, commonly known as a double chin. It contains a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, which breaks down fat cells, resulting in a more contoured jawline without the need for surgery.

Each of these fillers has its own unique properties and benefits, making it important to consult with our provider to determine the best option for your specific needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance your cheeks, lips, or jawline, or smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, Robert Andrews Laser and Medical Aesthetics has the right solution for you.

Aftercare Dos and Don’ts

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the best results and minimize any potential side effects from your dermal filler treatment. Following these dos and don’ts will help you achieve optimal results and maintain your enhanced appearance.

Dos

• Follow Your Provider’s Instructions. Always follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by our experts. They know your individual case best and can give you personalized advice.
• Keep the Treated Area Clean. Gently cleanse the treated area to prevent infection. Use a mild cleanser and avoid any harsh products.
• Use Ice Packs. Apply ice packs to the treated area to reduce swelling and bruising. Wrap the ice pack in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin.
• Stay Hydrated. Drink plenty of water to help your skin heal and stay hydrated. Hydrated skin heals faster and looks healthier.
• Elevate Your Head. Sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights to reduce swelling. This helps gravity work in your favor, reducing the chance of prolonged swelling.
• Use Arnica. Consider using arnica gel or tablets to minimize bruising and swelling. Arnica is a natural remedy known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Schedule a Follow-Up. Book a follow-up appointment with your provider to assess the results and address any concerns. This ensures that everything is healing properly and that you are happy with the results.

Don’ts

• Avoid Touching or Massaging the Treated Area. Do not touch, press, or massage the treated area for at least 24 hours to avoid shifting the filler.
• No Strenuous Exercise. Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 to 48 hours post-treatment to reduce the risk of swelling and bruising.
• Stay Out of the Sun. Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least a week. UV rays can cause inflammation and prolong healing.
• Skip Alcohol and Blood Thinners. Avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medications like aspirin for 24-48 hours to minimize bruising and swelling.
• No Facials or Massages. Avoid facials, massages, and other skin treatments for at least a week post-injection to prevent irritation and ensure the filler settles properly.
• Don’t Apply Makeup Immediately. Refrain from applying makeup for at least 24 hours to avoid infection and allow the skin to heal.

Dermal fillers offer a versatile and effective solution for restoring volume, smoothing wrinkles, and enhancing facial features. By understanding the different types of fillers, the concerns they address, and following the proper aftercare, you can achieve the best possible results.

If you’re considering dermal fillers, consult with our experienced team at Robert Andrews Laser and Medical Aesthetics in Colorado Springs, CO, to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your aesthetic goals. Embrace youthful radiance and confidence with our expert care.