Injectable fillers are one of the most popular facial rejuvenation techniques. As we age, the underlying tissues that keep our skin looking youthful and firm begin to break down due to the effects of gravity, sun exposure, diet, genetic factors, and years of facial muscle movement. Over time these factors contribute to the development of lines, wrinkles, and folds in the face.
Reasons for Considering Injectable Fillers:
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Excessive facial wrinkles.
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Large wrinkles or furrows around your mouth (smile lines).
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Loss of volume in the face.
What causes wrinkles?
Within the connective tissue of the dermis, collagen and elastin fibers form a network that provides the skin with structure, support, and elasticity. Furthermore, fat cells and other molecules, such as hyaluronic acid, help to create volume beneath facial skin. With time, this network of collagen and elastin fibers breaks down, and hyaluronic acid molecules and fat cells that create volume are depleted. Together, breakdown and depletion of these molecules result in wrinkles and other changes to facial skin.
Fillers can reduce or eliminate wrinkles and scars, create fuller lips, and treat lipoatrophy, or fat loss beneath the skin. With little downtime and almost immediate results, injectable fillers offer a safe, effective method of restoring a smoother, more youthful appearance.
General Procedure
After the skin is properly cleaned with an alcohol based solution, Hyaluronic acid is injected using a very fine needle into the superficial or deep dermis depending on the type of wrinkle being corrected. The procedure typically takes between fifteen to sixty minutes. Prior to the start of your procedure, the treatment areas will be cleansed, usually using an alcohol based cleaner. Unlike collagen injections, hyaluronic acid injections do not include an anesthetic agent. Therefore, a local or topical anesthetic may be used to numb the treatment area during the procedure.
Recovery Process
Immediately following the injections, you may experience some redness, slight stinging, minor swelling, or bruising in the treatment area. Tiny scabs may also form at the injection sites. Patients generally return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure, however following the post-procedure guidelines will dramatically reduce the length and intensity of the recovery period. It is also advisable to avoid rubbing or massaging the injected area for at least 24 hours.
Results
The body will eventually metabolize and absorb the injected hyaluronic acid over time. Therefore, while the effects are immediate, the longevity of results varies by patient, results from hyaluronic acid injections are typically maintained for six to twelve months.