Facial fillers, which are also known as “injectables" or "dermal fillers" are typically temporary solutions designed for specific tasks like wrinkle reduction, crease filling or lip augmentation. It is very important to locate an experienced physician who has been trained in the proper use of several injectable products because successful treatments are often a combination of therapies. A properly trained dermatologist or physician should be able to assist you in determining the proper facial filler for your needs.
Fillers work by restoring lost volume which occurs primarily because of aging or weight loss. It is important to understand that injectable fillers are not all alike and some people respond differently so it is imperative to consult with a properly trained physician.
Hyaluronic Acid based fillers
Juvederm, from Allergan, Inc is a "next generation" smooth gel, non-animal dermal filler offering a natural look and feel. Juvederm has the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid on the market and uses a special formulation process, so one session can last up to six months or longer. It's even FDA approved to last up to one year, which means less visits to your aesthetic provider for maintenance.
Other currently approved hyaluronic acid dermal fillers use a gel particle suspension formulation, which can be visibly seen, as opposed to the smoother formulation used in Juvederm. The smooth consistency of Juvederm dermal filler also may help to minimize the discomfort that can sometimes occur during the injection procedure.
Restylane, manufactured by Medicis out of Sweden, is a hyaluronic acid-based filler used worldwide since 1996. Restylane comes in three forms: original Restylane - intended for wrinkle correction and lip enhancements; Restylane Fine Lines - for correcting thin superficial lines, around the mouth, forehead and smile; and Perlane - for shaping facial contours, such as cheeks and chin, correcting deep folds, and for volume augmentation of the lips.
Restylane is a well-established product and is the world's best selling dermal filler. Results last around 6 months so a return trip will be necessary for maintenance. Restylane's manufacturer recommends a return treatment every 4.5 to 9 months.
Perlane, also from Medicis, is a version of Restylane used for shaping larger areas such as the chin, cheeks and especially lip enhancement. Perlane is a hyaluronic acid based compound, like Restylane, with the key difference at a molecular level. Perlane has larger gel particles and is meant to be injected deeper into the skin.
Perlane provides a natural-looking appearance and lasts around 6 months. Like Restylane, it does not contain any animal proteins, reducing the risk of allergic reaction and animal-based disease transmission.
Hylaform, (hylan B gel) is a dermal filler made from a highly purified form of hyaluronic acid. It is injected just below the surface of the skin, adding volume to the skin, smoothing unwanted lines and wrinkles. Hylaform provides immediate results with recovery taking as little as one hour. This is a quick procedure that can typically be done during your lunch hour.
Hylaform gradually breaks down over time and is naturally reabsorbed by your body; therefore, touch-up two or three times a year are needed to maintain the desired result.
Non-Hyaluronic Acid Based Fillers
Radiesse FN, from BioForm Medical, is a cosmetic filler injected into the cheeks, jawline, brow or nose for recontouring and lifting. Radiesse tends to last longer compared to other fillers.
Radiesse is made from calcium hydroxylapatite, a naturally occurring substance found in the bones. It's been used for prosthetic implants in dental, facial, and orthopedic surgery. According to studies, Radiesse FN has shown promise as a new agent for facial contouring with no serious side effects.
Sculptra (poly-L-lactic acid) from Sanofi Aventis is a filler that works by stimulating new collagen and underlying tissue growth, resulting in a more youthful, fuller appearance. It's often found under the trade name New-Fill.
Sculptra is a synthetic, biocompatible material injected below the surface of the skin in the area of fat loss. It provides a gradual and significant increase in skin thickness, improving the appearance of folds and sunken areas and can last 2 years or more thanks to the stimulation of collagen growth.
CosmoDerm and CosmoPlast are made from purified human collagen and are used to correct wrinkles and acne scars. They are also used to fill facial lines and creases. They also have lidocaine, a numbing agent, which aids in decreasing patient discomfort during injection. CosmoDerm is generally used for minor issues while CosmoPlast is used for more serious defects.
Depending on the area treated and the amount of material used, effects can last as long as 6 months. They are very useful in lip augmentation and patients report excellent results. These are the new forms of collagen, the originals being Zyderm and Zyplast, which have been used safely for over 20 years.
Radiance is a creamy filler made of a synthetic material which has been used in medical and dental applications for years, and has been shown to be highly safe and effective. It keeps its creamy texture throughout its life, providing a natural look and feel for the patient.
Results are immediate and can last as long as three years. It has even been found useful in the non-surgical nose job and has been used to create fuller cheeks, reduce facial lines, and enhance the lips.
