Some of the hallmarks of youth are firm, smooth skin with enough volume to fill out and support the skin. Unfortunately, as we age, there are a few changes that take place, which greatly affect the aesthetics of the face.
One of the first changes to take place is the loss of collagen in the skin, a structural protein that is essential for keeping the skin firm, supple, and vibrant. With aging, production of new collagen in the skin is greatly reduced, and existing collagen begins to break down, causing folds and fine lines in the facial skin. Facial fat also starts to fade, leaving the face looking hollow, tired, and haggard over time.
Facial fillers are an extremely popular treatment for combating these signs of aging, using a quick, non-invasive procedure. Fillers are intended to introduce subtle volume into the face on a temporary basis, most often used to fill in wrinkles, folds, and fine lines: “static” wrinkles caused by volume loss rather than repetitive facial movements. Common areas treated with fillers include the deep folds between the nose and cheek, wrinkles extending down from the mouth, and for rejuvenating the cheek area. Facial fillers are also used for natural-looking lip augmentation.
The effects of fillers generally last from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the type of injectable, the individual brand and formula, and the area treated. Patients love the quick and convenient treatment process that involves minimal discomfort, and the instant, confidence-boosting results of the procedure. The injection process is repeated at necessary intervals should patients wish to maintain results.
Fillers can be made of several different materials, but the most common is hyaluronic acid, a “sugar” that is found naturally in the skin. Hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin and lends volume to the areas experiencing volume loss, resulting in natural rejuvenation of the facial skin.
Consultation
If you are curious about pursuing facial filler treatments, then it’s time to schedule a consultation in Miami with Dr. Alvarez. Dr. Alvarez will discuss your goals for treatment and go over the different filler options with you to help you determine which treatment will be best for helping you to reach your goals. If you have other concerns that cannot be addressed with fillers, Dr. Alvarez will be happy to help you design a more extensive treatment plan.
Be sure to bring any specific questions or concerns you may have to your consultation—it’s your opportunity to get to know Dr. Alvarez and find out if you are a good candidate for facial filler treatments.
Ideal Candidates
Facial fillers are very safe and most people who are concerned about age-related facial volume loss and wrinkling or overly thin lips with poor contour are good candidates for the procedure. With that said, candidates should be healthy adults with realistic expectations for the results of the procedure. Individual candidacy will be determined during the consultation.
Procedure
The treatment itself is straightforward. Most patients do not require any type of anesthesia, though a topical numbing agent may be used if desired, to make the procedure more comfortable.
Dr. Alvarez will use a fine needle to carefully inject the chosen filler into the face, taking care to contour the treated areas to the patient’s liking. Once this process is complete, the procedure is over, as no bandages or sutures are needed.
Patients can return home shortly after the procedure is complete.
Recovery
Because the procedure is non-invasive, there is no recovery time required for the majority of injectable fillers. Patients can resume normal activities right away, and there should be no activity restrictions for exercise or other strenuous activities, except when specified by the plastic surgeon.
Minor side effects relate to the injection process itself, and may include swelling, bruising, and redness at the site of the injection, particularly for treatments such as lip augmentation. These side effects should subside within several days and pose no risk to patients.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
While it might seem like administering facial fillers is a simple and easy task, it actually takes a great deal of skill and finesse to give each patient the desired results. Some medical professionals who are not in aesthetic fields (such as dentists) are certified to perform aesthetic injections, but that does not mean you will get the results you want by choosing the most convenient or cheap option.
For your safety and best results, it is a good idea to seek the help of a reputable plastic surgeon—someone with the knowledge and expertise to listen to what you want and translate it into your results. A skilled plastic surgeon will tailor the procedure to your needs and change tactics later on if necessary. Do your research and meet with a few doctors before you make a decision, as you will want to find a doctor you can trust.
FAQs
Which filler is right for me?
It’s best to talk to a qualified plastic surgeon about which specific filler formula is right for you. Everyone’s needs are slightly different, and it’s important to come up with a custom treatment plan with an expert to maximize your results.
Can fillers be combined with other treatments?
Absolutely. Many patients elect to have other procedures to address problems such as “dynamic” wrinkles (formed by repetitive facial movements), sun damage, dull skin, and much more. Be sure to bring up all of your goals during your consultation so you and your surgeon can decide how to proceed. Some treatments can be done on the same day, while others may require separate appointments.
Does lip augmentation with fillers feel natural?
Hyaluronic acid fillers produce beautiful lip augmentation results that feel extremely natural. There are now special filler formulas made especially for lip enhancement that give patients excellent results and long-lasting enhancement.
What are the differences between fillers?
Each filler brand has various formulas available, and the differences may be as small as being optimized for a particular area or as large as using a different material for the base. Common filler brands include Juvederm, Restylane, Belotaro, Sculptra, and Radiesse. Skilled plastic surgeons are well-informed of the pros and cons of each formula and will walk you through all the options they offer.
Is it possible to have an allergic reaction to fillers?
It depends. It is possible for certain fillers to produce an allergic reaction in some patients, but this is extremely rare, and your surgeon will go over your medical history carefully before selecting a product for you. It is important to be upfront about any allergies or sensitivities you may have, for your own safety.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Alvarez today! Call 305-600-4146 or fill out the contact form in this page.