Fillers may not be permanent, but deciding to get your first injection isn’t a decision to make lightly. There are a few things to think about before you take that first step. Knowing what to expect from your fillers and how to choose the right filler and the right surgeon can make the process much easier.
You Have a Lot of Options to Choose From
Injectable fillers are typically made from one of three substances. Many brands use hyaluronic acid as their main ingredient. Your body naturally produces hyaluronic acid, which is a thick, gooey substance. It’s responsible for giving babies their plump chubby cheeks and from keeping your eyes and skin moist. As you get older, your natural supply of hyaluronic acid drops.
Another ingredient found in fillers is calcium hydroxylapatite, which is heavier than hyaluronic acid. This substance helps to increase your body’s production of collagen. Finally, some fillers use poly-L-lactic acid to add volume to lines and wrinkles and to stimulate collagen production.
It’s not just ingredients that make fillers different. There are many injectables available that are made from hyaluronic acid. However, each one may be formulated differently to address different concerns. For example, in Juvederm Voluma, the hyaluronic acid gel is thick, which helps to add volume to the cheeks and also prolong the results. Meanwhile, the hyaluronic acid in a filler like Belotero is fine and delicate, making it an ideal pick for more delicate lines and wrinkles.
You’ll Most Likely Need Multiple Injections
The results from injectable fillers don’t last forever. That can mean that unless you absolutely don’t like what the filler does, you’ll typically need multiple injections to maintain your results. How frequently you’ll need a repeat treatment depends on the type of filler you choose and how quickly your body metabolizes the substance. Some people need repeat injections twice a year while others can go in once a year.
You Might See Some Bruising, Swelling or Even Bleeding
Although fillers don’t have the lengthy downtime associated with surgery or some other types of non-surgical procedures, they can cause some side effects. It’s not uncommon for people to see some bruising and swelling after they get an injection, for instance. If you’re particularly concerned about bruising and swelling, you can talk to your surgeon about ways to quickly reduce swelling or help the bruising fade. Cold compresses might help with swelling, for example.
Some people also bleed more easily than others and they might experience bleeding after their injections. In some cases, the bleeding can be caused by medications you take. Certain blood thinners and pain relievers, such as aspirin, can increase your bleeding risk. Your surgeon will let you know what medications to avoid before your injection.
Different Fillers Last for Different Lengths of Time
Even fillers made from the same primary ingredient can last for different lengths of time. While how long the filler’s results last might be the last thing you consider when deciding which one is best for you, it’s still something worth knowing before you schedule your treatment.
Typically, fillers that stimulate the production of collagen in the skin provide the longest lasting results. That includes fillers like Sculptra and Radiesse. Radiesse provides instant results and then continues to work after the initial filler has worn off. Sculptra provides more gradual results as it increases collagen production, but the results can last for as long as two years.
Meanwhile, finer or lighter-weight fillers, like Belotero, can provide results that last for around six months to a year.
Choose Your Doctor With Care
Not every doctor who claims to offer fillers or injections is uniquely qualified to perform injections. That’s why it’s very important that you do your research and choose a doctor with care before booking a filler appointment. You want to work with a surgeon who has plenty of experience performing injections and who offers a range of fillers. You also want to work with a surgeon who is board certified in facial plastic surgery, as that means he or she has plenty of training and experience as well as an understanding of facial structure and anatomy.
About Dr. Ran Rubinstein
Dr. Ran Y. Rubinstein is a board certified plastic surgeon. He offers patients a variety of filler and injectable options at his practice in Manhattan. Whether you want to add volume to the lips or fill in fine lines or deep creases, he can work with you and help you choose the cosmetic treatment that will help you reach your goals. Dr. Rubinstein offers patients a variety of procedures, from fillers to rhinoplasty, at Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists, PC in Newburgh, New York. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Rubinstein, call 845-863-1772 today
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