Facial Fillers
Facial fillers are used to maintain volume in the face, and thus restore (or prolong) a youthful, rested, healthy appearance. Sometimes referred to as ‘collagen replacement’ or ‘soft tissue enhancement,’ or ‘Restylane’ (a brand name), facial filler injections take only minutes to perform and the cosmetic results are immediate. The dermatologist injects the selected facial filler (see brands listed below) at sites where natural fat has depleted, the most common being the folds next to the nose (nasolabial folds), the lines running from the mouth toward the chin (marionette lines), sunken cheeks and thinning lips. The new generation of facial fillers is more practical than the animal-based collagens they are descended from, as the newer products are biocompatible, more versatile in their weights and densities, and last longer. However, most facial fillers are still temporary, and depending on the staying power of the product (as well as the reaction of the patient) touch-ups will eventually be required.
NYDG FLASH FACTS
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Facial fillers instantly plump up nasolabial folds, marionette lines, sunken cheeks, thinning lips, soft jaw lines. Facial fillers can also be used to correct scars and deeper wrinkles.
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No prep time is required with facial fillers, though the patient may request topical numbing, icing or nerve blocking prior to the procedure.
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Bruising may occur at injection sites. Patients should avoid aspirin and Ibuprofen prior to procedure, and take herbal Arnica Montana and Papaya post procedure.
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All facial fillers used at NYDG are safe, long lasting and FDA-approved.
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Facial fillers, along with Botox, are used for The Fifteen-Minute Facelift.
"I have more confidence in my looks since I’ve gone to NYDG and had Restylane and Perlane to correct the lines around my mouth. I’ve gotten many compliments from friends saying how young my skin looks. Yet it’s a very subtle and discreet change. It's not like surgery, where you have to spend time recovering. You can leave the dermatologist's office and an hour later, be at a business dinner feeling and looking amazing." - Tiffany
"Dr. Colbert’s cosmetic work is very realistic and natural looking. He does amazing, wonderful things with Restylane and the other fillers." - MT
Facial Fillers: What they’re made of:
Restylane and Juvederm.
Both are hyaluronic acid, a biodegradable, biocompatible, water-absorbing substance in a clear gel. They break down after about six months, when additional injections will be required to maintain the effect. (Perlane, still being tested, is also in this category.)
Sculptra.
Developed to correct facial wasting (lipatrophy), notably that associated with HIV, Sculptra is made of poly-L-Lactic acid and works by thickening the skin. Sculptra requires a series of treatments, usually three, about a month apart. Its advantage: Sculptra is extremely long-lasting (up to two years).
Radiesse.
A calcium-based, aqueous gel, Radiesse is dense and pliable under the skin, where it lifts tissue and fills sags and folds. Radiesse is very durable and can last a year or more with excellent restorative results.
Artefill.
Made of particle microspheres suspended in bovine collagen, this filler works to support the collagen structure of the skin, and is the first filler with claims to permanence. Because of the presence of animal collagen, prior testing for biocompatibility is required.
