When it comes to plastic surgery, patients are looking for a number of things: great results, limited recovery and discomfort, affordability, and long-lasting benefits. Naturally, no procedure has it all, but there are some procedures that balance these qualities well. Various dermal fillers have become wildly popular procedures of late, due to their great results, accessibility, versatility, and non-invasive nature. But many people don’t have the facts about how they work. Since fillers are injected into the face in a similar manner to Botox, it makes sense that the results might last about the same amount of time. However, there’s good news for people who are concerned about getting lasting anti-aging results: fillers work differently than treatments like Botox, tending to offer longer-lasting results.

Longevity

While botulinum toxin-based anti-aging injections like Botoxare all very similar in formula, and therefore last about three to four months on average, fillers are much more varied in their longevity and materials, with the product being gradually absorbed by the body. For example, some basic hyaluronic acid fillers (like Juvederm, one of the most popular fillers) are known to last about six months or so, while newer formulas, like JuvedermVoluma XC, have been shown to last up to two years. So if there is such a disparity between different fillers, why not automatically choose the filler that lasts the longest?

Different Uses

The main reason to consider a variety of fillers is the simple fact that these fillers have different uses, and may work for some patients better than others. Juvederm and Restylane are great for simple wrinkle filling, for example, while fillers like Perlane are better for deeper wrinkles. Showcasing the versatility of facial fillers, JuvedermVoluma is used to help add lost volume to the cheek area for a more youthful facial contour. Other fillers are great for procedures like lip augmentation. In addition to their subtle differences in performance, the different formulas that make up facial fillers are a boon to consumers, as there is enough choice to allow patients with sensitivity to one type of formula to try another.

Choosing the Right Filler

Obviously, if you’re looking for specific performance, like lip augmentation or facial volume loss, your dermal filler choices are narrowed somewhat. The same is true if you have allergies to a certain type of filler. If you have no restrictions, however, then the choice becomes a bit more complicated. Fortunately, a skilled plastic surgeon has the knowledge to help you choose the product that is likely to work the best for your needs and budget. Talk over your goals during consultations and weigh your options carefully.

The Process

Whatever the filler used, the process of injection is mostly the same, and very simple. The treatment itself takes only a few minutes, and no anesthesia is necessary, unless the patient wishes to have a topical numbing agent applied to the skin to make the procedure more comfortable. Following treatment, little to no downtime is required before the patient can resume normal activity. Follow-up appointments are only necessary if ongoing results are desired.

Choosing Your Surgeon

While dermal fillers are not prone to complications, it does not mean that just anyone is qualified to perform the treatments. If you want the highest quality results that are safe, long-lasting, and look natural, then you will want to seek help from a highly experienced, board certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Rami Batniji, a respected expert in the field of facial plastic surgery. If you would like to speak with Dr. Batniji about your options for dermal fillers, then it’s time to schedule a consultation at Batniji Facial Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach(949-650-8882) or Beverly Hills, California(310-467-2180). Call either location today to schedule your consultation.