How Do Dermal Fillers Work?

Many men and women find themselves increasingly unsatisfied with the appearance of their skin as they grow older. The aging process is especially noticeable on the skin. Fine lines and wrinkles, folds, sagging skin and lost volume can take their toll, making us look much older than we actually feel inside.
The good news is that we live in an exciting era of advancements in the field of cosmetic medicine. New treatments are being developed to help turn back the clock on aging skin in a safe, effective, minimally-invasive way. One of these developments is the creation of dermal fillers.
Why Skin Ages
Most people reluctantly accept the aging process and the effects it has upon their skin. They feel they simply have no other choice. Nothing could be further from the truth. Before examining some treatment options, it is important to understand why skin ages in the first place.
One aspect of the aging process is that our bodies begin producing less of various substances that promote healthy skin that is resistant to free radical damage and environmental hazards like sunlight and pollution. Our bodies may also be less able to utilize certain substances as they once did when they were younger.
One such substance is called hyaluronic acid. This substance is produced in large amounts when we are young, but less when we are older. It has the special property of attracting and holding water molecules. Hyaluronic acid is found in large amounts between our joints and in the skin. In the joints, its water-attracting ability acts as shock absorbers for impacts. In the skin, hyaluronic acid acts as a volumizer. Its loss leads to fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin and a loss of skin volume.
Another substance that we produce less of as we age is collagen. This substance provides a structure to allow the body to build blood vessels, which transports nutrients to skin cells. For these reasons, we must make up for a deficiency in substances that promote healthy skin. By doing this, we are effectively turning back the clock on our skin in a way that appears completely natural.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are a great way to supplement lost hyaluronic acid and collagen and offer results that can be dramatic. The process involves the injection of a special solution containing these substances.
The procedure is normally fast and requires no downtime. Most patients are able to resume their normal activities immediately after their treatment.
Both hyaluronic acid and collagen dermal filler treatments are temporary. In six months or so, depending upon the precise formulation, a follow-up treatment may be required to maintain results. This is because the body will gradually absorb the contents of the injections.
Contact Our Office Today
To find out more about if dermal fillers are right for you, make an appointment at Nova Plastic Surgery, with locations in Ashburn and Haymarket. We will review your medical history, evaluate your skin and help you decide which filler is best for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and regain your youthful appearance.