What Fillers Can and Cannot Do for You

In recent years, we’ve seen so many advances in non-surgical cosmetic improvement procedures and products. For example, we now have multiple dermal fillers we can use to erase signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles and loss of facial fullness. Some of these products are quite amazing, so you might think a single option can address all your concerns.

Of course, that isn’t true. Amazing as today’s dermal fillers are, they cannot do everything for everybody. In fact, many of them are specially formulated for a particular purpose, such as plumping and reshaping the lips. So when should you choose a filler over some other option?

What Can Fillers Accomplish?

• First signs of aging – those creases and folds that develop on your cheeks and around your nose and mouth. Just as the name implies, fillers fill in those creases and wrinkles – even severe ones -- rounding your features for a smoother, younger appearance. Fillers also restore collagen and your skin’s natural hydration more dramatically than results you can achieve using anti-aging skin creams.
• Plump your lips – whether you simply want fuller “pouty” lips or you’re seeing loss of fullness and fine lines that come with aging.

It takes skill and experience to produce the most desirable, effective results with fillers. Dr. Raval has been practicing the Art of Facial Plastic Surgery since 2001 and uses only the safest, FDA-approved products, including:

• Restylane, to increase volume and reduce wrinkles, and smile lines in the face
• Restylane Silk, to precisely shape and smooth lips
• Restylane Lyft, to add volume to cheeks and mouth
• Juvéderm, to reduce wrinkles, folds and smile lines
• Voluma, to add volume to cheeks and mouth

A primary ingredient in these products is hyaluronic acid, a substance your body produces naturally. As you age, production slows and the amount of hyaluronic acid in you skin decreases – one reason you see visible changes to your skin and overall facial appearance.

Dermal fillers are a temporary treatment option. Results can last one to two years and sometimes longer. However, combining fillers with Botox injections can help you achieve even more pleasing, longer-lasting results. Over time, your body absorbs the filler. The more expressive your face, the faster that absorption occurs. Botox works by partially paralyzing the muscles in the treatment area – just enough to lessen movement without sacrificing your natural expressiveness.

When dermal fillers are the right choice for you, they can be highly effective. Our patients love them because they are minimally-invasive, treatment sessions are short, there’s virtually no downtime and results are visible right away.

Are Fillers the Answer?

No filler can create the same changes as a surgical face lift. Botox or Dysport works best for treating eye wrinkles. And as noted, fillers are not a permanent solution. A facelift can address all areas of the face and neck, and results can last many years. During surgery, fillers can be used to fill facial hollows.

The best choice for you depends on your skin tone as well as your facial soft tissue and bone structure, your aesthetic goals, your lifestyle, budget and personal preferences. A personal consultation with Dr. Jeff Raval can help you decide. You can learn more about your options, ask questions and hear Dr. Raval’s recommendations based on your unique situation.