Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers and neuromodulators are both minimally invasive, injectable cosmetic treatments used to treat signs or prevent signs of aging. Both are outpatient procedures and require minimal downtime. 

While both can improve the overall appearance of the face, they achieve this in different ways. Neuromodulators like Botox or Xeomin are primarily used to treat fine lines and wrinkles. Neuromodulators contain Botulinum toxins in a safe, FDA-approved injectable treatment.

Botox blocks nerve signals to the muscles that cause fine lines around the eyes, forehead, and mouth, also known as expression lines. By blocking the nerve signals, muscles in the injection site become temporarily paralyzed, thus softening or eliminating wrinkles from the area. These results can last up to three months, and the treatment takes about five minutes.

On the other hand, dermal fillers are primarily used to rejuvenate the skin and add volume and fullness to various areas of the face. Different brands and types of fillers are made of varying ingredients, including:

• Hyaluronic acid, such as JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®, and Belotero®
• Calcium hydroxylapatite, such as RADIESSE®
• Poly-L-lactic acid, such as Sculptra®
• Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres (PMMA), such as Bellafill®

Each filler treats specific signs of aging or other cosmetic concerns. Depending on which one is used, they can last anywhere from 12 to 24 months. On average, treatment takes approximately 45-60 minutes.

Dermal fillers contain a soft and malleable gel-like substance that is highly customizable to achieve various aesthetic goals. Fillers soften fine lines and add volume to areas of the face. Dermal fillers treat:

• Soften the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
• Restore lost volume.
• Plump the lips.
• Build symmetry in facial features.
• Define the chin, jawline, and cheekbones.
• Fill hollow under eyes.

Your Skin & Tonic injector can apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area before injection to relieve pain. Patients report slight discomfort while receiving injections that dissipates quickly when the needle is removed.

Results can be seen immediately! Your provider can lend you a hand-held mirror to see the results before you leave. Swelling will also be immediate, so final results are generally revealed one to two weeks post-treatment.

Dermal fillers can last between six to eighteen months. Results vary on the area treated and the product used. Some areas of the face can metabolize filler more quickly than others. For example, certain dermal fillers, such as Voluma, are formulated to last longer but are limited to the cheeks.

Swelling and mild bruising are likely to occur and last for a few days, depending on the number of injection sites. You should avoid vigorous excessive sweating, saunas, hot showers, and facial massage 24 hours post-treatment, but you are free to resume your daily activities.