Dermal Fillers FAQ
When it comes to restoring a youthful appearance without surgery, injectable dermal fillers set a standard that’s tough to beat. These popular products come in an array of formulations to give you the results you want without incisions or a lot of downtime. At our dermatology offices, we offer popular dermal fillers like BELOTERO®, JUVÉDERM® and Restylane® to Miami patients who want firmer, fuller, lifted skin. For a more thorough understanding of these products, take a look at our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
Which of your fillers is the best?
Different injectable dermal fillers use different formulations and active ingredients to address different concerns – therefore, there is no “best” all-around filler. Our dermatology team stands by the efficacy of each of our offered dermal fillers. We’ve seen firsthand the results they can create for our patients, and, in some cases, our physicians have even participated in their research and development. Whether you’re in search of wrinkle reduction, volume addition, or lip augmentation injections, our Miami dermatologists can help you navigate your filler options at your consultation.
How are fillers different from BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX Cosmetic and its related products, Dysport® and XEOMIN®, use a purified form of the botulinum toxin to temporarily relax the muscles that contribute to wrinkles – specifically, the wrinkles caused by facial movement (think crow’s feet and frown lines). The active ingredients in dermal fillers are used to physically fill in wrinkles, hollows, and other areas that lack volume. Filler results are visible immediately, while neurotoxins take several days to take full effect.
What happens to fillers as they break down within the body?
The fillers used by our physicians are biocompatible, which means that they’re not harmful to your body. Many popular fillers, such as BELOTERO BALANCE, JUVÉDERM®, and Restylane® are made from synthetic hyaluronic acid, which mimics a substance that occurs naturally in your body. Over time, typically a period of several months, the ingredients in injectable fillers break down and are naturally eliminated from your body through its normal metabolic processes.
Who may not undergo a treatment with dermal fillers?
Individuals who are sensitive or allergic to any of the ingredients in dermal fillers should not undergo the procedure. People with certain skin conditions may also be discouraged from using dermal fillers, although your physician will ultimately help you determine whether these products are safe for you. In addition to treating wrinkles, these products may also be used for smoothing the appearance of scars, adding volume to various areas of the face, or for enhancing the lips.
How does it feel to have a dermal filler injection?
For fillers, our doctors use a very small needle, and the quick injection feels like a small pinch. If you’d like, you may request a topical anesthetic, but our fillers come pre-mixed with anesthetic, so most patients find the treatment very tolerable. We also provide cold compresses to patients for increased comfort and reduced swelling after their injections. Our doctors have also mastered the Can-ULift technique pioneered by Dr. Fredric S. Brandt, reducing the discomfort of filler needle injections. This Can-ULift technique can achieve natural results with little to no bruising, swelling, or downtime.
Is there anything I can do to improve the results of my dermal filler treatment?
We typically advise dermal filler patients to discontinue the use of alcohol, products that contain aspirin, and certain blood thinning medications for a few days before and after the procedure. This reduces the risk of bleeding and excessive bruising. It’s also important to follow your doctor’s instructions. Depending on the type of filler you’ve had, you may need to postpone certain activities or avoid manipulating the injection site. Your physician will provide you with a specific set of guidelines that’s been tailored to your treatment.