Guide to Injectable Fillers

The demand for injectable dermal fillers has grown significantly over the years as individuals are discovering its benefits that extend to adults of all ages looking to turn back the clock, prevent aging, or redefine their contours. 

Fillers are medical grade gels that can be injected under the skin to improve the appearance of wrinkles, skin folds, under eye circles, and acne scars. They can also be used to make cheeks fuller and more youthful and to make lips plumper.

There are all different types of fillers available. Some fillers last a few months while others last several years. We believe fillers are an effective treatment option to temporarily address concerns of volume loss, and can be adjusted gradually to address any volume-related facial changes that may arise down the line.

The best dermal filler for you will depend on a host of factors, including your specific goals, current skin condition, target area, and age. This is why our team at the Dermatology Institute of Boston utilizes a wide range of injectable fillers to make customized determinations that work best for our patients. 

At the Dermatology Institute of Boston, we only offer hyaluronic acid fillers because they are the safest and are reversible if need be.

To help clients find the best option for them, let’s define what injectable fillers are and look at the different options that are currently available. While we will go over all the major kinds of injectable fillers, it’s worth pointing out that our team uses hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers exclusively. Based on our experience with numerous patients, hyaluronic acid fillers have demonstrated tremendous natural-looking results while also being the safest.

What to Expect During an Appointment for Injectable Dermal Fillers

Filler procedures can usually be done in just 15-30 minutes. A numbing cream may be used to make the procedure more comfortable, depending on the area being treated. Patients may experience some bruising and swelling in the treated area for a few days. Tell your doctor if you are taking medicines that affect blood clotting, like aspirin, ibuprofen or warfarin.

Understanding Dermal Fillers 

Injectable fillers are a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that can plump up wrinkles, smooth out lines and restore volume to various parts of your face. 

Produced by several manufacturers using various ingredients and placed just under your skin, some uses and benefits include: 

• Adding volume to minimize the appearance of sagging skin
• Lip injections, also known as lip fillers, can produce a more plump appearance
• Smooth varying degrees of wrinkles on the face 
• Treatment can last for long periods
• Minimize the appearance of scars 

Who Manufactures Injectable Fillers?

Various kinds of dermal fillers can address different aspects of the face. As popularity has exploded, more companies have started to enter the space. Of the many options, the Dermatology Institute of Boston chooses to use injectable fillers from RHA, Juvederm, and Restylane lines. 

Different Variations and Techniques

As dermal fillers have become more popular, the development of injectable fillers has become more advanced. There are now several choices for each portion of your face. For some, the options can feel overwhelming.

This is why our team focuses on truly understanding our patient’s history, needs, and goals. With a meticulous examination, your provider can make personalized, tailored suggestions on the types of dermal fillers you need and what techniques will yield the best results. 

Next, let’s look at the different kinds of injectable fillers available and how they may be used. 

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Dermal Fillers 

Injectable fillers made of hyaluronic acid (HA) are the most popular for several reasons. First, these fillers are defined by their ability to create the most natural-looking results. Depending on the application points, they are incredibly effective at improving the appearance of fine lines and volume loss. Hyaluronic Acid injectable fillers also provide the most flexibility compared to the other forms of dermal fillers we will discuss. 

Second, hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, making it extremely safe. Because of its biological nature, it can be reabsorbed into the body with little difficulty, generally between 6-12 months. For those that emphasize health and safety, this reason alone makes it the dermal filler of choice for most patients. With a simple application of hyaluronidase, clients can reverse or reduce the impact of their HA dermal filler in certain areas. Besides giving added security, it can provide a level of precision in defining outcomes that were impossible before. 

For all these reasons, the Dermatology Institute of Boston chooses to use hyaluronic acid dermal fillers exclusively. HA injectables have been developed into specialized treatments that can yield tailored results in key areas of the face. Before we discuss other kinds, let’s look at some examples of HA fillers that we use in our offices: 

RHA® Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers

This type of filler is an incredibly adaptive and dynamic filler that moves with your face. It is often used to address dynamic wrinkles and folds. 

Juvederm Ultra – XC®

This option is designed to be a quick lip augmentation that can be administered in less than 30 minutes. Containing lidocaine dramatically reduces any discomfort associated with treatment. 

Juvederm Voluma®

This option is an effective filler for the cheek areas of the face. This filler reduces wrinkles and lines by restoring volume to the affected areas. 

Restylane-L®

It is designed to mimic the same hyaluronic acid your body produces and can correct moderate to severe wrinkles and lines. Especially effective on undereye hollows. 

Cheek Lift Procedure:

(video “Cheek filler” on the DIB’s youtube channel)

Restylane Defyne®

This dermal filler can produce incredibly natural, dynamic results by using a smoother, smaller form of hyaluronic acid. 

As you can see, hyaluronic-based dermal fillers offer a variety of injectables that can be extremely effective for patients of all walks of life and goals. 

Other Injectable Fillers Not Derived from Hyaluronic Acid

Poly-L-lactic Acid

One of the longest-lasting dermal fillers, clients can see effects lasting for up to two years. While they are biodegradable, they are not naturally occurring in the body. 

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)

Also naturally occurring, this is a thicker consistency than hyaluronic acid fillers. CaHA injectable fillers do a fantastic job specifically in adding volume, definition, and a plump appearance to areas such as the jawline and cheeks. 

Autologous Fat Injections 

Unlike the other non-surgical injections, this one will require surgery and is currently not an available option at our office. Fat is removed via liposuction from other areas of your body and then injected into areas of your face. 

These medicines may put you at an increased risk of bruising or bleeding at the treatment site. Some natural supplements and vitamins that you take may also make you more likely to bruise.

Additionally, if you are prone to getting cold sores, you should let your doctor know prior so that they can prescribe medication to prevent these from coming out after treatment is done close to the lips and mouth.

Choose the Option Right For You 

As you can see from our guide above, the options for injectable fillers are vast. With its many recent advances, dermal fillers can serve as a powerful ally in helping you reach your skin and cosmetic goals. We’d love to arrange an appointment at our Boston office where our team can help you go over your options and form the best plan of action.