Cosmetic Fillers at Amethyst Wellness

Cosmetic Dermal Fillers

This month at Amethyst Wellness in Palm Coast, Florida, we’re highlighting the service of Dermal Fillers. 

Q: What is a filler?

A:  A dermal filler usually consists of modified hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occuring substance in the body which adds volume to the skin.  There are several formulas for different needs and locations. 

Q: How do filllers work?

A: The hyaluronic acid fillers are intended to provide volume to deep lines and folds.  Common areas of treatment include the nasolabial folds, marionette lines and cheek and lip augmentation.   The fillers will soften these deep wrinkles but may not completely eliminate them.  Fine lines are wrinkles may not improve after dermal fillers.  Other skin procedures may be necessary.

Q: Are fillers permanent?

A: No.  Fillers last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.  The length of duration depends on the type of product used and the location.  For example, lip fillers tend to dissolve more quickly than fillers in the cheeks. 

Q: Can fillers be reversed?

A: Yes, if the product doesn’t look right for any reason, there is a product called Hyaluronidase that can dissolve the hyaluronic acid filler.  Your injector will place this product in strategic locations to allow for correction/reversal.  It may take several visits to achieve this depending on the type of product used and the location.

Q: How many syringes do I need?

A: This is highly variable based on client preference and degree of correction required.  A general rule of thumb is a minimum of 1 syringe per decade of age.  Many people will require multiple treatments to achieve optimal correction.

 Q: Do I have to get all syringes at once?

A: No. Your injector will  recommend a certain number of syringes.  Together you may develop a treatment plan and schedule for injections.  However, please remember that if areas are undertreated, you may not achieve optimal correction.

 Q: Which types of fillers do you use?

A: Our clients love Allergan’s family of fillers and we do too.  We use mostly Juvederm brand fillers.  We like the results we can achieve and the Alle rewards program provides savings for our clients. 

Q: What results should I expect?

A: Results from dermal fillers can be highly variable.  This can depend on initial level of correction required, skin condition, genetics and external factors like smoking, nutrition and hydration.

 Q: Can I achieve results similar to a facelift after getting fillers?

A: No.  Dermal fillers are a minimally invasive procedure performed with a local topical anesthetic.  A facelift requires a skilled surgeon, general anesthesia and some downtime.  We can do amazing things with fillers, but it’s not the same as having surgery.

 Q: What are the side effects of dermal fillers?
A: The most common side effects are bruising and swelling.  This will resolve but may take up to 2 weeks.  Some lumpiness may be present initially, but this typically resolves within 2 weeks.  Rarely, a filler can be accidentally injected into a blood vessel.  This is very serious and your injector should be trained to emergently dissolve the filler if this happens.  To minimize this risk, we are well trained in anatomy and are selective in the location the fillers are placed. 

Q: What should I expect during my visit?
A: Your injector will provide a facial assessment followed by a discussion of any areas of concern.  A treatment plan will then be developed.  When you’re ready to proceed, you’ll have HIPAA compliant photos taken.  These are private photos between you and your injector and are used to develop your plan of care and to assess the effectiveness of your treatment.  You will never see your photos on social media without your written consent.   A topical numbing cream will be applied to the treated area to minimize discomfort.

 Q: Are Dermal Fillers right for me?

A: If you’re looking to replace volume and soften wrinkles, fillers may be a great choice. 

Please visit our website at amethystwellness.com for more information and call for your free consultation 386-283-4180. 

Author

Dr. Amy Coopersmith