Research shows that there are four common fears when it comes to fillers (i.e., dermal fillers). We plan to debunk them all, so let’s get started!
#1 What are Fillers and How Do They Work
Most fillers are composed of Hyaluronic Acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance made in our bodies. It is found in different concentrations in areas like your eyes, brain, and joints. Dermal fillers are made of synthetic HA and thus have almost no risk of allergy or reaction when injected. While HAs can be injected into joints to reduce pain and increase movement, in the face they are injected to restore lost volume and create more youthful contours.
HAs are successful in facial contouring because they naturally attract water. In other words, the HA molecules are hydrophilic, attracting water molecules which serve to plump and “fill” the flattened or depressed area of the face. Since most HA syringes have only 1/5 of a teaspoon of HA in them, hydrophilic action is what creates the result.
There are a great number of HA options. Some are thicker or thinner and will last a longer or shorter time. Using the right amount of the right filler in the right location is part of the artistry that makes our patients so happy. And makes it hard for you to look at them and know if any injections have been used!
#2 Over-filled
The most commonly over-filled area is the lips, often called “duck-lips”. It’s important to note, that like other choices we all make, an over-filled lip can be a patient’s choice. Historically, younger patients want larger, more pouty lips. While mature patients tend towards a “conservative lip” that essentially restores most, or all, of the volume they had as young adults. Thin lips are often associated with grimness or anger, simply reversing thin lips can make a person look happier and more friendly!
While any area can technically be over-filled, after lips, the most commonly over-filled area is the cheeks. In attempting to restore youthful facial contours, over-filled cheeks can lead to very high, sharper edged cheeks that lack subtle rounding and softness.
Having touched on over-filling, it is important to note that millions of men and women routinely receive fillers and no one can tell. That’s the beauty of working with a provider that knows you, your goals, and desired look.
#3 Pain
While no one ever said being stuck with a needle was painless, we use topical anesthetic, tiny needles, and the gentlest techniques. Fear of pain should not keep you from having filler. You will truly experience nothing more than mild discomfort.
#4 Getting Hooked
Yep. I can see how this can happen. Once you’ve found that you can reverse time, doing so becomes something you want to maintain. Luckily, there are all kinds of ways to help you remain at your tip-top-best without breaking the bank. At Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology (YHCD) we offer a VIP Membership program that gives you 20% off everything all the time. It’s a fantastic deal for all our loyal patients and allows you to have the treatment you want, when you want it. No waiting for promotions or specials. It’s good to be a VIP!
CareCredit is also an alternative. We offer the 6-months, zero-interest plan. CareCredit allows you to spread the cost of your cosmetic services over time with zero interest. It is also used by our patients wanting a high degree of privacy, something like a cosmetic charge card where charges are not viewed by a spouse or significant other (it’s a secret!).
If you are naïve to fillers and would like to go slowly, we encourage you to schedule a complimentary consultation. No pressure, we promise. We have many Before and After pictures and can tell you what will work best for your goals and budget. Let us help you turn back time and feel more confident and comfortable with the way you look. Please click to schedule online or call us at 239-529-DERM(3376).We hope to see you soon!