Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers refer to substances placed under the surface of the skin to remove deep wrinkles, or to help produce fullness in the face or lips.  Since these were invented, 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 (which I refuse to inject and suggest you avoid!).

We use only the hyaluronic acid fillers. 

Dermal fillers are used to plump out  deeper wrinkles, such as those between the nostrils and lips (the nasolabial fold).  Dermal fillers are also used to plump out the lips, providing a fuller look. We will only use fillers that are made from hyaluronic acid, which exists in your skin naturally.  The effect lasts for six to nine months, although the effect is immediate. 

There are several options for dermal fillers.  The original, and still well-respected, is the Restylane  family of products (https://www.restylaneusa.com/). Kysse is the version intended for the lips; it leaves the lips full yet soft.  Nearly 3 out of 4 patients in clinical studies were satisfied, even at one year. 

Revanesse Versa+, (https://revanesseusa.com/products/)  from Prollenium, is soft and smooth going in.  It shows effect immediately, and is long-lasting. This is the one I inject most frequently, and for good reason.

Belotero from Merz, (https://www.belotero.com/) is also frequently requested by my patients.  Now with a lidocaine additive to reduce pain, it helps lips, and those deep wrinkles in the lower face.

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 Revanesse® 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.

For additional information on Revanesse Versa: https://revanesseusa.com/products/