Washington DC plastic surgery patient who had prior eyelid and facelift surgery years ago. Over time, she gradually developed further wrinkles, eye hollows, and dark circles. She was referred to Dr. Chaboki who provided a non-surgical option with facial filler injections.
Facial fillers have greatly increased in popularity due to several factors, including ease of treatment in the office with local anesthesia. In addition, results can be appreciated immediately and downtime is minimal for a majority of patients. Lastly, facial fillers are versatile. Facial plastic surgeons can use fillers to sculpt the face for an enhanced appearance as part of a liquid facelift.
What is a facial filler?
Facial fillers augment the soft tissue of the face for long-lasting results. Juvederm®, Restylane®, and Belotero® consist of hyaluronic acid (HA), which is a natural component of the skin. HA fillers are a clear gel that may soften facial wrinkles, augments lips, and enhance cheeks. Facial fillers vary in their consistency, thickness, and longevity and are tailored for certain areas of the face. For example, Juvederm is very popular for lip injections.
Other fillers such as collagen injections, Radiesse®, and Sculptra® are made of materials that stimulate collagen production.
How many treatments do I need?
Facial filler treatments are temporary, lasting approximately several months to years depending on the specific filler material and facial area treated. One treatment in the lips or wrinkles around the mouth (nasolabial folds) typically last around six months. On the other hand, a single treatment to reduce lower eye bags or a non-surgical rhinoplasty may last a year.
How many syringes of filler do I need?
The number of syringes per treatment area will depend on the patients specific anatomy and personal goals. Are you looking for subtle or significant change? Keep in mind that additional fillers can always be added later for more dramatic improvement. First time patients may want to start with a single treatment or syringe just to see how it may look and feel, in addition to get a sense of the recovery and downtime. Once a patient has become more acquainted with liquid facelift procedures, then multiple treatments or syringes may utilized as desired.
For patients who a seeking a subtle or mild improvement, then typically one syringe or treatment is sufficient, while for patient who want a dramatic change will more likely require several syringes or treatments. The before and after photograph above demonstrates a woman, treated by Dr. Chaboki, who needed several syringes and treatments of HA facial filler to achieve her desired liquid facelift results.
Have you considered facial fillers or a liquid facelift? Speak with a cosmetic facial surgeon to review your options.
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