“Fillers are categorized by the nature of the substance used as filler, which in turn dictates the look, feel, onset of action and longevity of the filler. Some examples of popular categories of fillers include Hyaluronic Acid (Juvederm® Ultra, Juvederm® Ultra Plus, Juvederm Voluma®, Juvederm® Volux,  Juvederm® Vollure, Juvederm Volbella®, Belotero® Restylane®, Restylane® Lyft, Restylane® Refyne, Restylane® Defyne, RHA® Collection – RHA® 1, RHA® 2, RHA®3, RHA®4 ) Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse®) and Poly-L-Lactic Acid (Sculptra®). The differences between these products are at times subtle but helpful in achieving optimal results. I am constantly researching and analyzing new fillers to provide the very best options for my patients.”

“My favorite fillers are composed of a clear gel-like substance called hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in our skin. When injected, it acts like an inflated cushion to support facial structures and tissues that have lost volume or elasticity due to normal aging. Hyaluronic acid is also a great humectant which means it holds on to water which helps the surface of the skin look fresh and supple.”

“I carefully examine each patient’s facial characteristics and structure, explain and discuss each option with the patient and then make my recommendation. There are many factors to be considered in this exercise, including the patient’s individual facial structure and characteristics, the nature of the desired correction, the longevity of the results achieved, and careful weighing of the benefits and limitations of the different products available.”

“Fillers can be used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and restore a youthful appearance such as treating smile lines, marionette lines (the lines that extend down from the corners of the mouth) and lip lines. They can also be used to non-surgically enhance and augment facial areas such as cheek enhancement, chin augmentation and lip augmentation. Recently, these areas have been FDA approved for treatment with specific products.”

“Filler may be used off the face. For example, I use FDA approved Radiesse® and Restylane® Lyft to restore volume in the back of the hands. These fillers help to rejuvenate the hands by reducing the look of veins and the bony structures under the skin.”

“Check out my FILLER TREATMENT GUIDELINES. The main preparation is to avoid intake of products that may increase your susceptibility to bruising such as Aspirin, Advil, Motrin, Vitamin E and certain supplements. Make sure to check with me if you have questions about any medications or supplements you take regularly. If you have a history of cold sores you may be a candidate for antiviral treatment prior to treating susceptible areas such as the lips. Usually a topical anesthetic is applied to the skin prior to treatment so you may be asked to arrive in advance of your scheduled appointment to allow time to numb the area.”