Dermal Fillers

Our face is made up of skin, fat, muscle, and bone. As time passes, these lose their volume and elasticity, and the natural aging process shows its signs. Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that, when injected under the skin, visibly rejuvenate appearance by helping to smooth lines and wrinkles and replenish lost volume. They are often used to plump up lips, enhance facial contours, and reduce the appearance of scars.

There are several types of dermal fillers. These are the most common dermal fillers applied by the experts at the Brown University Health Laser and Aesthetic Center:

• Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps maintain moisture and volume. Popular HA fillers brands include Juvéderm and Restylane.
  • Benefits: It adds flexibility to skin, helps it stretch and flex, and reduces skin wrinkles and lines. Hyaluronic acid is also proven to help wounds heal faster and can reduce scarring.
• Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a synthetic, biocompatible, biodegradable polymer that stimulates collagen production. It is known by brands such as Sculptra and Sculptra Aesthetic. The effects of PLLA appear gradually over a few months, producing natural results.
  • Benefits: PLLA helps rejuvenate facial skin. It can improve skin texture, make the skin thicker, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

The lasting effects of dermal fillers vary for each patient and depend upon the product used. Generally, hyaluronic acid fillers last between 6 to 18 months. Poly-L-lactic acid, which stimulates collagen production over time, may last up to two years.

When performed by trained, qualified professionals, dermal fillers are generally safe, with mild, temporary side effects that may include swelling, bruising, or redness. Although it rarely occurs, some patients may have an allergic reaction. Your provider will discuss your medical history, including allergies, in advance of your procedure.

When scheduling your dermal filler procedures, we advise planning ahead so that you can be prepared for all phases of the procedure – before, during, and after.

Important tip: While some patients see results immediately after treatment, there may be side effects including mild bruising, swelling and redness. We recommend that you allow at least 7 to 10 days for recovery if you are planning to attend an event where you want to appear at your finest.

Before your first dermal filler procedure, your Brown University Health Laser and Aesthetic Surgery Center provider will meet with you to discuss your expectations for treatment. Together, you will determine which treatment suits your needs and can offer the desired benefits. In addition, your provider will review your medical history and any previous treatments you may have had.

Tips for 24 hours before your procedure:

• Avoid:
  • aspirin/ibuprofen
  • strenuous activity/exercise
  • sun or sauna
• Arrive at your appointment with a clean face, without make-up or other facial products.
• Check with your provider about any medications you take daily.
• Come to your appointment well hydrated.
• Avoid alcohol use the day prior to and day of the appointment.

Before the procedure begins, your provider will thoroughly prepare your skin. Skin will be cleaned and, if desired, a topical numbing cream may be applied to make the experience as comfortable as possible. 

With a thin needle, your provider will precisely inject filler into your soft tissue. You may feel a pinch or sting, but most people don’t experience much pain during these injections. The length of time of your procedure depends on several factors, including the number of areas to be treated, but most take a few minutes or up to an hour.

Tips during your procedure:

• Your provider will make sure your experience is comfortable and help you to remain calm and relaxed.
• Throughout the procedure, your provider will keep you informed of what they are doing and allow for real-time feedback from you.
• For maximum results, it is best to remain still.
• If this is your first procedure, your provider may limit your treatment to ensure you are happy with the results, increasing at a later visit.

Immediately after your dermal filler injections, your provider will cleanse your skin and treat any pain or swelling with an ice pack. Results for patients will vary. Many people see results immediately. Some may have mild bruises, swelling or discomfort, but these will fade in a few days. How long it takes to see results (and how long they last) depends on several factors, including the type of treatment you receive.

Tips for after your procedure:

• Do not touch, rub, or massage the treated area, unless your provider advises differently.
• Do not perform strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or excessive facial movements.
• Your provider will advise you, based on your results over time, when to obtain your next treatment.