Dermal Fillers - Dr. Katie's Beautiful You Aesthetics

DERMAL FILLERS include many different FDA-approved products including Juvederm, Volbella, Restylane, Belotero, Vollure, Voluma, Versa and several more. The above-mentioned dermal fillers are made using HA (hyalauronic acid) which is a naturally occurring substance found in our skin, bones, cartilage and other tissues in our bodies. HA helps to add volume and elasticity to the skin but the levels of HA decrease with age. This decrease of HA results in loosening of the skin, decreased volume and elasticity and eventual fine lines and wrinkling.

Who is a good candidate for dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers may be indicated in women and men over the age of 21 who have increased lines and wrinkles of the mid and lower face or lips. The fillers add volume and “plump” the injected tissue to make the skin smoother and contribute to a younger appearance. When used for lip enhancement, they smooth wrinkles and make the lips fuller and can also enhance the border definition.

How do I prepare for injections with dermal fillers?

No special preparation is needed but to decrease the chances of bruising, we recommend that you discontinue aspirin and NSAIDS such as ibuprofen for 5-7 days prior to your appointment. Arnica montana is an herbal tablet that can also be taken for 1-2 days prior to injections to decrease chances of bruising and increase healing. For injections in or around the lips in patients who have a history of cold sores/herpes, we recommend starting an antiviral medication such as Acyclovir or Valtrex 1 day prior to your injections to decrease the chance of an activation.

How long do dermal fillers last?

The average length of time the fillers last ranges from 8-12+ months. The actual time varies depending on the type and amount of filler used, the areas of injection and also the age and metabolism of the person receiving the injections. Many people who have dermal filler injections choose to start with a conservative approach and may add to it before the benefits are all gone from the first injections. This way they make gradual changes over time rather than large changes all at once and it spreads the expense over time.

What are the side-effects of dermal fillers?

The most common side effects are usually resolved within a few days. They include swelling, redness, bruising, pain and tenderness in and around the injection sites. Allergic reactions may occur to the Lidocaine which is in most of the above named products. If you are allergic to Lidocaine, please let Dr. Katie/our office staff know prior to your injections. Products which do not contain Lidocaine may be substituted. Since HA is naturally occurring in our bodies, it does not cause allergic reactions.

How much do dermal filler injections cost?

The prices vary with the different products. The products have differences in their molecular size and viscosity so that some are used more superficially for fine lines or wrinkles and some are better suited for areas with deeper lines or more volume loss. A consultation with the doctor must be done prior to any injections and the cost will be discussed at that time but it can range from $450 to $900 per syringe. Our office offers discount and VIP programs in addition to the rewards programs from the companies that make the neurotoxins.

RADIESSE »

RADIESSE is an FDA-approved dermal filler that is a water-based gel made of microspheres of calcium hydroxyapatite which volumizes the areas injected and also stimulates the production of collagen in the treated areas. Over time, the results of Radiesse may last longer than HA fillers since there is more natural collagen stimulation.

Where can Radiesse be injected on the face?
Radiesse can be injected in areas needing more volume and support including the nasolabial folds, corners of the mouth, jowl areas, chin wrinkling, marionette lines (extending from the corners of the mouth toward the jaw) and depressed scars. Radiesse cannot be injected into the lips.

What are the possible side effects after Radiesse injections?
Side effects of Radiesse are similar to any of the HA fillers and, if they occur, are usually temporary at the sites of injections. They include swelling, redness, itching, bruising and tenderness. Hydroxyapatite occurs naturally in our bodies and no pretesting for allergies are needed. However, it comes with or without Lidocaine so if an allergy or sensitivity to Lidocaine is suspected, advise your injector prior to the treatment.

Sculptra »

SCULPTRA IS AN FDA-APPROVED INJECTABLE USED TO RESTORE COLLAGEN in areas of the face that have signs of fat loss and volume depletion due to aging, genetics or weight loss. It can be used in shallow to deep folds and wrinkled areas of the face but it should not be used around the lips or eyes.

What is Sculptra made of?
Sculptra’s main ingredient is PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) which is in the form of safe, biocompatible and biodegradable tiny particles which are combined with sterile water for injections. PLLA has been used for decades in surgical products such as dissolvable sutures and implantable materials. Sculptra is known to stimulate healthy collagen production as it dissolves in the injected areas.

How is Sculptra injected?
Sculptra is injected into sterilized areas of the skin with sterile needles in 1-4 separate sessions. The sessions are usually 4-6 weeks apart, giving time for some dissolution of the PLLA and stimulation of new collagen.

How long does Sculptra last?
The results vary in each patient but the effects of Sculptra injections have been noted to last more than 2-3 years in patients.

What are the possible side effects of Sculptra?
Possible side effects usually fade within a few days but they may include swelling, bruising, redness tenderness, localized bleeding or small nodules. If nodules occur, they are often felt when touched but not visible. Skin discoloration is another rare possibility.