What are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are substances that are injected beneath the skin for contouring effects. They have a gel-like consistency that allows them to restore volume in some regions of the face.

They are an exceedingly popular treatment used by over a million people each year. Dermal fillers won’t cost you as much as cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, but can still deliver noticeable results. Lines, wrinkles, and lost volume are a few of the targets that dermal fillers tackle.

At Tampa Aesthetic & Plastic Surgery, we offer several options for dermal filler treatments. Dr. Brown and his team have years of experience providing this popular treatment to countless patients.

What Can Dermal Fillers Do?

Most often, dermal fillers target wrinkles. But they can do much more than just that. Depending on the target area, they can add volume and contouring to give you a rejuvenated appearance.

While smoothing out wrinkles is the most common goal, dermal fillers can also address the following:

• Marionette Lines (lines around the nose and mouth)
• Chin Creases
• Sunken Cheeks
• Loss of Volume in Lips
• Vertical Lip Lines

They also have more proactive uses, such as filling out volume near the temples or improving facial feature symmetry.

Are Dermal Fillers Safe?

Though straightforward, dermal fillers are still a medical treatment. Only a trained and knowledgeable expert should perform the injection. Dr. Brown’s precision and skill combine to provide safe treatment and results that look natural.

When selecting a physician for dermal fillers, give it time and attention. Do not hesitate to ask any questions, especially before the procedure. Dr. Brown can answer any concerns you might have.

Additionally, be sure to check the physician’s track record. Dr. Brown’s before and after photos of procedures will give you a good idea of his abilities as a plastic surgeon. When you are in good hands, all risks are minimal. And, the results you want are more achievable.

How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?

No dermal filler is permanent—however, some last longer than others. The type of product, the target area, and the patient all factor into the duration of the treatment.

Usually, a dense product and deep injection suggest longer-lasting results. For most patients, dermal fillers are not a one-time treatment. The good news is that the treatment is easy to repeat. Dr. Brown can even use your prior treatments and their results to better adjust future injections. You might see even better results the second time around!

The type of filler is a primary factor in how long the effects last. Some are only a couple of months, while others can last for years. Dr. Brown will work with you to determine which course is best for you.

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

These are a great way to see if dermal fillers are right for you. They are the most temporary, usually lasting 6-18 months, depending on the injection area. For example, lip injections are more short-lived that ones in nasolabial folds.

We often recommend these fillers to those receiving treatment for the first time. There is little commitment. If you like the results, you can always repeat it. If you don’t, the results will soon fade.

Synthetic Fillers

Since the body does not absorb this filler, they last much longer than HA fillers. They are an excellent option for patients who have found a treatment plan they like and are ready to commit to long-lasting results.

Synthetic fillers can last multiple years. With such a treatment, you want to choose a skilled, qualified, and experienced plastic surgeon. Dr. Brown has both the ability and care to develop an aesthetic that fits your distinctive look.

Fat Injections

Fat injections are the longest-lasting dermal filler. Though they can last indefinitely, there will be some changes as time goes on. Not all the injected fat is going to survive, so the results might soften after some time.

To counter this, one option is to overfill the target area. At first, you might have a fuller look than desire, but once the injection settles, you will obtain a natural appearance.

Dermal Fillers Recovery/Downtime?

Recovery with dermal fillers is generally quick and easy. Most treatments deliver immediate results. Usually, we suggest giving yourself a day to relax immediately after treatment. But, after that, you can return to regular activity.

Fat injections take more time, as first, a procedure is performed to obtain the fat for injection. You can expect about two weeks of downtime, depending on the liposuction performed.

Some minor swelling and bruising may occur at the injection site, but this will quickly fade in a few days.

Learn More Today

If you are considering dermal filler treatment, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation today. Dr. Brown and his team of professionals are ready to answer any questions you might have about the treatment.

We work with our patients on an individual basis, developing a treatment plan that works for them. Great results begin with attention and care, and the team at Tampa Aesthetic & Plastic Surgery are here for you every step of the way.