Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers refer to substances placed under the skin's surface to remove deep wrinkles, or to help produce fullness in the face or lips.  Since these first became available, several types have been developed.  The original filler was an animal-based collagen.  Next came fat transfers, in which fat cells (adipocytes) are removed by liposuction and transferred to desired areas, such as the back of the hand. Then, the hyaluronic acid fillers were developed, and finally came the plastic, semi-permanent fillers.

Getting the result you want requires some skill by the provider. Both Dr. Selvey and Ms. Karesky are very skillful.  

Dermal fillers plump out deeper wrinkles and add fullness where desired.  The most common areas include the lips, cheeks, chin, and jawline.

Fillers are also used to provide fullness to the vaginal labia and to the shaft of the penis.  Sometimes, a thicker filler is used to provide fullness to breast tissue.

Any pain associated with adding a dermal filler is usually effectively eliminated with a numbing agent or even an ice pack.  Any pain is very short-lived.

Treatment with a dermal filler is not a good option if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the safety of these products for use during pregnancy, or in women who are breastfeeding, has not been studied
• Have a history of hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation
• Have evidence of scars at the intended treatment sites
• Have acne and/or other inflammatory diseases of the skin, such as rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis
• Have allergic history including: severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), heightened immune responses to common allergens, especially inhaled allergens and food allergens (atopy), allergy to hyaluronic acid products, allergy to lidocaine, Streptococcal proteins or have plans to undergo administration of graded doses of allergens (desensitization therapy) during treatment
• Have acute or chronic skin disease, such as seborrheic dermatitis or rosacea, in or near the injection sites, or any infection or unhealed wound of the face
• Are under concomitant anticoagulant therapy, antiplatelet therapy, or have a history of bleeding disorders, clotting disorders such as hemophilia or connective tissue disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus

It’s not recommended to use dermal fillers in conjunction with a laser, intense pulsed light, chemical peeling or dermabrasion treatments, or with Over-the-counter (OTC) wrinkle products or prescription wrinkle treatments within 4 weeks prior to treatment, as there is a possible risk of inflammation or infection at the treatment site.

Pre- and Post-Care Information Sheet