Dermal Fillers for Volume Loss

Volume loss, also known as fat loss, is one of the most noticeable signs of aging on the face. As we get older, we naturally start to lose the fat in our faces, especially around the eyes and cheekbones. When were in our 20s, this is what makes us look like adults- but when were in our 30s and 40s, it can make us look older and more tired than we are. Volume loss can be one of the most frustrating aspects of facial aging because you cant combat it with any form of skin cream. Also, your efforts at staying fit (like working out and eating correctly) will help you maintain your figure and lose weight- but weight loss exacerbates the thinner appearance of your face. Some people call this trading your tush for your face. There are cosmetic solutions for volume loss. The most effective solution is dermal fillers. Dermal fillers are injectables that are used to plump up selected areas of the face. You can use dermal fillers to fill in deep wrinkles or expression lines, and to return sunken areas to their former plumpness.   Types of Dermal Fillers The three most popular types of dermal fillers are human fat, collagen, and hyaluronic acid.   Human fat injections use fat from your own body, transferring it from one area to another. Most clients have fat taken from their thighs or belly and used to fill in the spots on their faces that are causing concern. Collagen is a protein that is most often used to fill in the lips and mild wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that creates a cushion under the tissues, and is excellent for re-plumping sunken cheeks. Your plastic surgeon or esthetician will help you select the injectable most appropriate for you. Dermal fillers are not permanent, so if you are unhappy with the results you can switch to another form of filler later. They are also an excellent supplementary procedure that you can pair with a face lift, mini-facelift, Botox treatment, laser treatments, and any number of other procedures. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, call us at (703) 574-2588. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes facial volume loss and why does it make us look older?

As we age, the fat in our faces gradually depletes, first giving us a mature adult appearance in our 20s and then causing us to look tired and older in our 30s and 40s. The hollowing around the eyes, cheeks, and temples deepens fine lines and gives the face a fatigued quality.

Can exercise and dieting help with facial volume loss?

Unfortunately, staying fit often accelerates facial volume loss rather than reversing it. Weight loss can make the face look even thinner and more tired, which is why people sometimes say they are trading their figure for their face when they lose weight.

What types of dermal fillers are used to treat volume loss?

The three most commonly used are human fat transferred from another body area, collagen used for lips and mild wrinkles, and hyaluronic acid which cushions and re-plumps sunken cheeks and deeper wrinkles. Your surgeon will help determine the most appropriate type.

Are dermal fillers for volume loss permanent?

No. Dermal fillers are temporary, so if you are unhappy with the results or your needs change, you can try a different product at your next appointment. Results can be maintained with periodic follow-up treatments.

Can dermal fillers be combined with other cosmetic procedures?

Yes. Dermal fillers pair very well with surgical procedures like facelifts and mini-facelifts, as well as non-surgical treatments like BOTOX and laser resurfacing. Combining them allows for a more complete rejuvenation that addresses volume loss, sagging skin, and texture changes simultaneously.