Injectable Fillers
Introduction
As we age, our face begins to show the effects of gravity, sun exposure and years of facial muscle movement, such as smiling, chewing and squinting. The underlying tissues that keep our skin looking youthful and plumped up begin to break down, often leaving laugh lines, smile lines, crow’s feet or facial creases over the areas where this muscle movement occurs.
Soft-tissue fillers can help fill in these lines and creases, temporarily restoring a smoother, more youthful-looking appearance. When injected beneath the skin, these fillers plump up creased and sunken areas of the face. They can also add fullness to the lips and cheeks.
Indications for Use
Injectables are usually not sufficient for severe surface wrinkles on the face, such as multiple vertical “lipstick lines” that sometimes form around the mouth. Instead, a resurfacing technique, such as chemical peel or laser treatments, is the recommended solution.
Deep folds in the face or brow may be more effectively treated with cosmetic surgery.
Keep in mind that your plastic surgeon is a specialist that can offer you the full range of the most advanced treatments ranging from cosmetic surgery, laser therapy, injectables and the use of other fillers. You and your surgeon determine that a single procedure or a combination of procedures is the best choice for you.
Expectations
The most important fact to remember about injectable fillers is that the results are not permanent.
The Treatments
The filler is injected using a fine needle inserted at several points along the edge of the treatment site. You may be asked to hold a hand mirror during the procedure to share your doctor the decision as to when you’ve had enough.
After treatment
Occasionally some bruising or swelling will occur but it is usually minor. You are free to eat, drink, and wear makeup with sunblock protection shortly thereafter.
In Conclusion
You’ll be very satisfied with the results of your injectable treatments. You may be surprised at the pleasing results that can be gained from this procedure.