3 Things to Know Before Getting a Dermal Filler

In the past, the primary option for addressing age-related changes in appearance was costly and quite frustrating. Over the counter products have limited efficacy and more invasive options like plastic surgery are quite costly. Times have changed. And so have the options for changing some of the effects of aging in the face. Dermal filler is one of those newer options. It’s an injectable treatment of a gel-like substance under the skin, generally done in a medical office, that does exactly what its name implies—it adds fullness and volume.

Are Dermal Fillers Safe?

When dermal filler is provided in a licensed and regulated environment—such as a doctor’s office or medi-spa—it’s safe, but not without its potential drawbacks. However, as Harvard Health has noted, any black market dermal filler or do-it-yourself options (including products available to purchase online) can lead to dangerous complications and serious side effects.

The only way to ensure you’re receiving a safe procedure is through a professional who is trained and certified in its administration. You can find professionals—and read unbiased medical reviews from real patients—through JOY MD as well as other platforms.

Some of the most popular Dermal Filler brands include Restylane, Radiesse, Versa, Restylane and Bellafill.

Common temporary side effects include skin rash, redness, bruising, swelling, bleeding, or pimple-like eruptions. Although uncommon, there may also be a visual appearance that’s not desired (asymmetry, lumps, or too much filler), skin damage that leads to a wound or scarring, blindness or vision problems, and death of skin cells in the area.

Where is Dermal Filler Used?

In general, dermal fillers are used to help smooth out lines and wrinkles, and/or replenish lost volume in areas on the face. It’s commonly used around the jawline, the descent of the nose, over cheekbones, to volumize lips or smooth lip lines, or to fill nasolabial folds—the creases many people have from the sides of their nose to the corners of their mouth.

An increasingly popular option is using dermal filler in hands, where the appearance of aging from loss of skin elasticity and shrinking of subcutaneous tissue is often pronounced.

Dermal fillers are quite popular and medical providers are using them in creative ways to shape and sculpt facial features.

When Will The Results be Visible?

You’ll see results immediately! But there’s often swelling and bruising that will show up shortly after treatment as well.

Medical aesthetic providers recommend clients take care in the first few weeks after receiving a dermal filler. Wash your skin gently, avoid facials, laser treatments, and waxing, and don’t participate in activities that involve excessive hot temperatures like saunas or hot yoga. Avoid exercise, makeup, and lip balm for the first 24 hours, and try not to touch the area that’s received treatment.

Doing these things will help the dermal filler set, and you can expect the results to last an average of 6 months. Actual results are very individual and range from 6 months to 2 years.