Dermal fillers are all the rage lately, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’ve always wanted a fuller pout or are looking to smooth away fine lines and wrinkles, dermal fillers can help. However, before you jump right in, there are a few things you need to know about dermal fillers to help you decide of this popular cosmetic treatment could be the perfect solution for you.
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Experience Matters
Even though dermal fillers are a nonsurgical procedure and can be done fairly quickly—typicallyrightover your lunch break—you still need to make sure your provider is appropriately trained and experienced.
Not only is there a component of artistic skill that needs to go into dermal filler injections to yield the best results, but you also want to make sure that you’re not jeopardizing your safety by choosing an inexperienced provider.
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You Get What You Pay For
Speaking of choosing a provider for your fillers, you certainly don’t want to base your decision on price. Although it might be tempting to snag the absolute cheapest dermal fillers deal you can find, you could end up spending even more in the long run if you don’t like your results or if you experience complications.
Play it safe and contact a board-certified plastic surgeon’s office in your area about setting up a filler consultation.
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There’s More Than One Type of Filler
It’s also important to understand that there are many different kinds of fillers out there, and there are pros and cons to each type. Hyaluronic acid fillers are some of the most popular, and these include products like JUVÉDERM® and Restylane®. One of the benefits of HA fillers is that they can be dissolved using a special enzyme if you’re unhappy with your results for any reason.
Other fillers like Sculptra® work by stimulating collagen production in your skin and can last for two years or more.
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Go for Natural
It’s true that dermal fillers can help to create a fuller, more youthful facial contour and help to plump and reshape your lips for the perfect pout. However, the goal is not to come out on the other end looking like someone else completely.
Make sure you’rerealistic about what you’d like fillers to achieve. Shoot for a natural result that still helps you meet your personal appearance goals.
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Results Don’t Always Show up Immediately
It’s likely that you could see a rapidimprovement in facial lines and wrinkles or the shape and/or volume of your lips. That said, bear in mind that swelling, bruising and redness are common side effects in the first few hours and days after getting filler injections. So if you don’t immediately fall in love with your results, don’t worry, because you’re most likely not seeing your final outcome just yet.
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Results Are Temporary
The effects of dermal fillers don’t last forever, and their length will largely depend on what type of product you used. Other factors can play a role, too, including the rate at which your body metabolizes the filler and how much was injected.
Generally speaking, hyaluronic acid fillers can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the specific product used. Over time, the product will gradually fade away, and you will return to your natural appearance, unless you schedule another filler appointment.
Dr. Lee B. Daniel is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and General Surgery. He is a member of numerous societies including the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
