Fillers
For Non-Surgical Cheek Enhancement
Over the years, gravity, aging, and changes within the body can all
affect your appearance. You might look in the mirror one day to discover that
your plump, full cheeks are looking a bit hollowed and sunken. Alternatively,
you might think that your flat cheeks could use a lift to get that
apple-cheeked look you've always wanted. Fortunately, whether your lack of
facial volume is due to aging or genetics, you don't have to live with it!
Thanks to advancements in the cosmetic surgery industry, there are now more
methods beyond surgery for patients seeking the fresh, rejuvenated face of
their youth. One of the safest and most popular methods for a non-surgical
cheek lift is through injections called dermal fillers.
There are several types of fillers on the market to choose from, and
they generally last from six months to two years. If you're not sure which type
of filler is right for you, your best bet is to visit a qualified surgeon to
discuss your options. During your initial consultation, you'll learn about
fillers and what benefits they have for you.
The Different
Types Of Fillers
If you have friends or family members who have had injections before,
you might be familiar with names like “Juvederm,” “Radiesse,” and Sculptra.”
These are a few popular fillers on the market, and they all have slightly
different uses. Essentially, they are all classified as dermal fillers, which
are gel-like substances that replenish lost facial volume, smooth wrinkle
lines, and reduce creases caused by aging and dehydrated skin. They can also
fill in creases around the mouth, nose, and chin to create smoother, healthier
skin and a more symmetrical appearance. Fillers are made of several different
materials, which in turn affects their ideal use and longevity. Today's fillers
are made of any of the following materials: hyaluronic acid (HA), calcium
hydroxylapatite (CaHA), poly-L-lactic acid, and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).
Hyaluronic acid forms the basis
for many fillers used by plastic surgeons, including Juvederm, Restylane, and
Belotero. Fillers made of hyaluronic acid are a preferred choice for many
patients and physicians. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance
made by the human body. Its primary role is to plump and hydrate the skin,
which can dramatically enhance cheeks. Hyaluronic acid fillers magnify the
body's natural hyaluronic acid production, which makes them a logical choice
for adding volume to sunken cheeks. Most hyaluronic fillers last from 6-12
months. If you want to keep up the volume, you'll need to get repeat injections
once or twice a year.
CaHA is another
substance found in fillers. Like hyaluronic acid, CaHA is produced naturally by
the human body. It is a thicker substance than hyaluronic acid, which means
that it takes less product (and less money) than hyaluronic acid-based fillers
to create the same volumizing effect. CaHA fillers also have a slightly longer
lifespan, which is about one year for most patients. After that time, you'll
need to get a touch-up if you want to maintain volume. Radiesse is one of the
most frequently used FDA-approved fillers that contains CaHA.
Poly-L-lactic
acid, in contrast to other kinds of fillers, is not made of a naturally
occurring substance. Although it's synthetically based, however, it is classified
as “biomechanically compatible,” which means that it is safe to use in the
body. Poly-L-Lactic acid has been used for years in other medical devices and
products, including stitches that dissolve into the skin. Fillers made with
this material are ideal for reducing wrinkles and creating volume in smaller
areas of the face. Their main role is to stimulate collagen production at the
injection site, which in turn helps to get rid of wrinkles. Because of its
ability to stimulate new skin cell growth, poly-L-lactic acid is commonly used
to treat deeper wrinkles beneath the skin's surface. Sculptra, which is one of
the longest lasting fillers available, is a frequently used filler with
poly-L-lactic acid.
Lastly, PMMA is another
class of fillers. It's also a synthetic and biocompatible filler. Fillers made
with PMMA create small balls of substance that stay in the injected area
indefinitely. These fillers have collagen, which continually creates new skin
cells. In turn, the skin at the injection site becomes more firm, youthful, and
refreshed.
What Happens
During An Appointment With Fillers?
When you visit a surgeon for fillers, he or she will recommend a
filler based on your aesthetic goals. Since fillers vary in price, your
financial needs will also be taken into consideration. The surgeon will go over
your medical history and note any allergies you have. It's important to let
your doctor know about any medications you're taking, especially blood thinners
or NSAIDs, as they can increase your risk of bruising.
Once you've decided on the right filler, your surgeon will numb the
area to be injected with a topical cream. This reduces the pain and swelling
that you'll experience during and after the injection. Some fillers, primarily
hyaluronic fillers, also contain lidocaine, which is an injectable numbing
agent that reduces pain and discomfort. The injection only takes a few minutes,
and unlike surgery, there's no downtime afterwards! You'll be able to resume
most non-strenuous activities after the appointment, but your doctor may
recommend avoiding exercise or prolonged exposure after the injection to
control swelling. There may be minimal bruising and swelling, but these effects
will recede in the few days following the appointment.
Fillers Vs. A
Traditional Cheek Lift
A targeted treatment, instant results, and no downtime are some of the
primary advantages of using dermal fillers for cheek augmentation instead of
the traditional method, which is surgery. Volumizing effects are apparent after
just one filler treatment, and keeping up with regular fillers can continue to
make you look younger and healthier. In fact, each treatment takes about 5-10
years off your face! While there are some risks associated with certain
fillers, the risks are much less than the risks associated with surgery, which
include reactions to the anesthesia, infections, and undesirable outcomes.
Where To Get
Fillers
If getting dermal fillers to restore facial volume and skin elasticity
sound appealing to you, it's time to choose a surgeon! Dr. Frankel is an
attentive, caring cosmetic surgeon who has board certification in Facial
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as Otolaryngology-Head and Neck
Surgery (ENT). Dr. Frankel specializes in various facial rejuvenation
techniques including dermal
fillers in Beverly Hills, CA. When you arrive for a consultation, Dr.
Frankel will listen to your concerns and provide a custom solution that meets
your aesthetic and financial goals.
