NON-SURGICAL

One of the most popular indications currently for Fillers is to add volume to the face and neck region. Whether it be replacing volume lost over time, correcting naturally occurring asymmetries of the face, or enhancing a patient's natural features, using Fillers to augment areas such as the cheeks, midface, chin or lips has become increasingly popular amongst all ages of patients. Most fillers used are Hyaluronic Acid (HA) based. These are popular because HA is a naturally occurring substance in the body, is degraded over time, and HA Fillers can be reversed should complications occur or at the request of the patient. 

 

Common Areas of Use: 

• Enhancing the volume and contour of the cheeks

• Adding volume, shape & definition to the lips

• Chin projection and symmetry

• Restoring volume to the thin skin of aging hands

• Filling hollow temples

• Correcting under eye hollowing (tear trough)

 

WHICH FILLER IS RIGHT FOR ME? 

There are so many types of Fillers on the market and picking the correct one can seem overwhelming. Dr. Megan considers a number of factors when deciding on the optimal Filler and, often, more than one Filler can be an appropriate choice. Factors to consider include patient age and skin quality, the area of injection, and the degree of correction needed.  

 

Anatomic Characteristics to Consider: 

• Tear Troughs: The lower eyelid skin is thin, delicate and is prone to dark discoloration (think dark undereye circles). In this area, a delicate, thin filler which will not enhance dark undereye circles is best suited. 

• Cheeks: Fillers used to add volume and definition to the cheeks are placed directly over the bone. They are ideally sturdy, hold their volume, and can act as a structural scaffold to the area. 

• Lips: The lips tend to bruise and swell (they are highly vascular), and a natural result requires a Filler that is flexible and soft. Furthermore, some patients desire more definition of the lips for which a finer, thinner Filler is best suited. Others desire more projection and volume for which a thicker, firmer Filler will be the best option. 

• Hands: The skin of aging hands is often very thin and the area to inject is often large. A Filler that holds its volume and spreads evenly throughout the backs of the hands is most appropriate here. 

 

HOW MUCH FILLER WILL I NEED? 

There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to Fillers as every patient’s needs and goals are different. Some patients will require a single syringe to achieve their desired goals while others will need four. A thorough examination and discussion between patient and provider is key to help ensure the appropriate treatment plan is implemented. Put simply, the more volume needed in a given area, the more Filler will be required to achieve and maintain that volume. More than one injection session is often required. 

 

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER MY INJECTION? 

Any injection can leave redness, bruising or swelling. Ice packs, Arnica, keeping the head elevated, and avoiding exercise immediately after injection can all help reduce these. The product will continue to settle for up to 2 weeks after injection. Depending on the area injected, gentle massage may be indicated but this will be discussed further during the appointment.