What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable substances that restore volume in the skin. They can plump up hollow areas, fill wrinkles and creases, and help define facial contours. Fillers typically contain hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance that keeps your skin elastic and flexible. Once injected, fillers can help rejuvenate your appearance for younger-looking skin.

Are dermal fillers the same as injectables?

Dermal fillers are one of the most popular types of injectables. Neuromodulators are the other most common type. While these injectables treat fine lines and wrinkles, they work differently.

Dermal fillers

Fillers contain gel-like substances that instantly plump up the skin. Results are immediate and long-lasting. Most fillers target static wrinkles (caused by volume loss), which tend to develop in the lower half of the face. Dermal fillers can also improve the appearance of the lips, jawline, decolletage, and hands.

Neuromodulators

Neuromodulators, like Botox®, interfere with the nerve signals that cause muscle movement. They temporarily freeze the muscles beneath the skin to prevent contractions that cause the skin to fold. By preventing muscle movement, Botox allows the skin to relax.

Botox targets dynamic wrinkles (expression lines), which typically appear in the upper one-third of the face, particularly on the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes and nose. Most neuromodulators take up to a week to deliver results and last about 3-6 months. Botox can also improve jaw pain, relieve headaches, and soften horizontal neck bands.

Dr. Bandt can combine dermal fillers and neuromodulators to rejuvenate your upper and lower face for a more youthful appearance.

I want plumper skin. Should I consider dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are ideal for men and women wanting plumper, more youthful-looking skin. While neuromodulators effectively target crow’s feet, frown lines, and sagging brows, fillers can treat the following:

• Nasolabial folds (around the nose and mouth)
• Hollow cheeks and temples
• Thin lips
• Smoker’s lines (above the lips)
• Aging hands
• Marionette lines (around the mouth)

Some people with certain allergies or bleeding disorders should not get dermal fillers. 

I’m getting dermal fillers. What can I expect?

Once Dr. Bandt maps out your treatment area during your 1:1 consultation, the injections only take a few minutes. Dr. Bandt applies a topical numbing cream beforehand to minimize discomfort. You may notice minor swelling, bruising, and redness immediately after treatment, but these effects should subside within hours or a couple of days.

How long can I expect results from dermal fillers to last?

Most dermal fillers deliver visible results for 6-12 months. Once your results start to fade, you can return to Dr. Bandt’s office for maintenance treatments. The filler breaks down naturally, so you don’t have to get it dissolved.

Call Anya Bandt, MD today or schedule an appointment online to determine whether you’re a candidate for dermal fillers.