Key Takeaways
- Dermal fillers treat volume loss, which is the gradual depletion of facial fat that makes people look tired and older starting in their 30s and 40s.
- Common treatment areas include marionette lines, nasolabial folds, under-eye hollows, the lips, cheeks, and pitted acne scars anywhere on the face.
- Most filler treatments can be completed over a lunch break, require no general anesthesia, and allow patients to drive themselves home afterward.
- Some tightness or mild swelling may be felt for a day or two after treatment, but normal activities can be resumed immediately.
- Patients should avoid pushing on the treated area after injections to prevent the filler from shifting before it fully settles.
Dermal filler FAQ. They are injectables used to plump up sunken areas of the face, pitted scars, and even deep wrinkles. They are an excellent cosmetic solution to volume loss, which is one of the three aspects of facial aging (the other two being sagging skin and skin texture changes).
Volume loss happens when we gradually lose the fat in our faces, which first makes us look mature in our 20s and then makes us look tired in our 30s and 40s.
Since dermal fillers are such an effective treatment for volume loss, it is very popular; however, there are common questions. Here are a few of the most frequent queries regarding dermal fillers:
Where Can I Get Dermal Fillers?
You can get dermal fillers almost anywhere. The most common areas are in the marionette lines that run from the corners of the mouth, to the chin, in the nasiolabial folds, around the eyes, around the lips, and in the cheek area. You can also have them injected into pitted scars (such as those caused by acne) anywhere on the face.
Does it Hurt?
You might feel some discomfort from the injection, and the area will feel raised and maybe tight for a few days afterwards. Your plastic surgeon will discuss the need or lack of need for topical anesthesia depending on your specific case.
What is the Procedure Like?
Most dermal filler treatments are quick (many can be done over your lunch break). You will not be under general anesthesia, so you will be able to drive afterwards. The surgeon will prep your skin for the injections, and possibly mark the spots where they will be going. The injections will be done, and then you are all set!
Can I Go Back to Work/School/My Life?
Yes, you can go right back to your usual routine after dermal fillers. You might feel some tightness or swelling around the area for a day or two, but that will resolve. You will want to avoid pushing on the area, so you don’t disturb the injectable as it settles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions do dermal fillers treat?
Dermal fillers address volume loss, one of the three main aspects of facial aging alongside sagging skin and skin texture changes. They are used to plump nasolabial folds, marionette lines, under-eye hollows, sunken cheeks, the lips, and pitted acne scars, restoring a more youthful and refreshed facial appearance.
Do dermal filler injections hurt?
You may feel some discomfort from the injections. Most fillers contain a local anesthetic or a topical numbing cream is applied beforehand, which significantly minimizes discomfort. The area may feel raised or slightly tight for a few days after treatment, which is a normal part of the settling process.
How long does a dermal filler treatment take?
Most filler treatments are quick and can be completed during a long lunch break. Many single-area treatments take only a few minutes to administer. Because no general anesthesia is required, you are fully alert throughout and are able to drive yourself home immediately after the appointment.
Can I go back to work immediately after getting dermal fillers?
Yes. You can return to your normal daily routine right after your filler appointment. You may notice mild tightness or slight swelling in the treated area for a day or two, but this resolves on its own and is not a reason to avoid normal activities or take time off from work.
What should I avoid doing after receiving dermal fillers?
For the first day or so after your treatment, avoid applying significant pressure to the treated areas, such as from vigorous massage or pressing directly on injection sites. This prevents the filler from shifting before it has had the opportunity to fully settle into its intended position within the tissue.