Dermal Filler

Dermal filler is a smooth gel-like substance made of hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is a substance your body naturally produces to keep your skin hydrated and plump. This means the fillers blend with your skin and look natural when applied by a skilled provider. It's a non-surgical option that provides noticeable yet subtle results, so you can feel like the best version of yourself without a drastic change. 

The exact amount of dermal filler you'll need really depends on the specific area you want to treat and your personal goals. 

For example: 

Lips: 0.5 to 1 syringe can create fuller, defines lips

Cheeks: Adding volume to the cheeks often requires 2-3 syringes per side to lift and contour naturally

Jawline/Chin: For more definition, it might take 2 to 4 syringes depending on how prominent or contoured you want to look. 

Templets: 

Since everyone's face in unique, and your goals may vary, we'd need to assess you in person to give you a more accurate idea. 

With dermal filler injections, you'll notice some immediate results right after the treatment. However, right after the procedure, there's usually a bit of swelling, and sometimes slight bruising, which can make the area look a little more prominent than it will once everything settles.

That's why we say, "don't love it or hate it for 2 weeks." Over the next 2 weeks, the fillers settle in, and any swelling and bruising gradually goes down, revealing the final, natural-looking results. 

Dermal fillers generally last anywhere from 6-18 months, but the exact duration can vary based on a few factors: the area treated, the type of filler used and your body's natural metabolism. 

Dermal fillers are generally safe when done by a medical professional, but like any procedure, they do come with some potential side effects. It's important to be aware of these and make sure you're in experienced hands. 

Common side effects are that are mild and resolve relatively quickly: 

Swelling and Bruising, Redness and tenderness and lumps and bumps

In rare cases, there are more serious side effects to be aware of:

infection and vascular occlusion

This is why it's essential to see a trained medical professional who understanding facial anatomy and knows how to inject safely. With the right provider, we take ever precaution to minimize these risks and ensure a safe and positive experience. 

PRE-FILLER INSTRUCTIONS

1. Schedule filler appointments at least 2 weeks prior to any special events and COVID VACCINE! Ideal results, bruising and swelling may be apparent for 2 weeks after treatment. 
2. FILLER APPT MUST BE AT LEAST 2 WEEKS BEFORE OR AFTER A VACCINE!
3. Avoid aspirin for 10 days. Ideally avoid ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, Aleve, Vitamin E, Ginseng, St Johns Wort, Omega 3/fish oil, for 5 days prior to the procedure, because these medications will make you more likely to bruise. Please call the office with any medication questions.
4. Tylenol will not cause bruising and is preferred for the week prior to treatment.
5. Take arnica tabs for 7-10 days prior to your injection appointment.
6. Alcohol is also a blood thinner and should be avoided for 24 hours prior to the procedure to minimize bruising.
7. To minimize risk of infection, it is important to avoid dental work, including cleanings, for 2 weeks before and after your filler procedure.
8. Reschedule your appointment if you have a cold sore. Antiviral medicines are recommended 2 days before if you have a history of cold sores, as lip filler can trigger cold sores.

POST-FILLER INSTRUCTIONS

1. Keep an ice pack on the area for 5 minutes in the office if necessary. You may use cool compresses at home but please do not ice further. Icing too aggressively or with too cold an ice pack can damage the skin and even cause scarring.
2. Refrain from exercise, saunas and hot tubs for 48 hours (to reduce swelling & bruising)
3. Do not massage or manipulate the treated area on the day or evening of treatment. You may wash your face normally.
4. You may apply makeup as usual the day after treatment.
5. If you experience discomfort or a headache, you may take Tylenol (acetaminophen). Wait until any bruises are resolved to take aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil). If you are having significant pain, please contact the office immediately.
6. Transient bruising is normal and can be minimized by taking Arnica tabs for a week prior to and after your appointment, and using arnica on any bruises after treatment.
7. Do not have any dental work, particularly cleanings, done within 2 weeks after filler to avoid oral bacteria contamination of the filler (via  the bloodstream).
8. Notify us immediately if you have excessive pain or swelling, blotchy bluish or dark red discoloration in any area, severe bruising, or if any crust, scab or rash develops.
9. No Covid Vaccine/Booster for 2 weeks following your dermal filler appointment

During your consultation I'll look at your facial structure and discuss what you want to achieve. Then, we will create a treatment plan tailored to give you the results you are envisioning.