What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers (sometimes called soft tissue fillers) are injectable gels—most commonly based on hyaluronic acid (HA)—that restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Unlike neuromodulators (which relax muscles), fillers add structure and “lift” by replenishing lost fullness under the skin.
At our medspa, we specialize in premium HA filler brands such as Restylane® and Juvederm®, each offering a suite of formulations for different facial zones and aesthetic goals.
How Fillers Work
- Fillers are injected directly into targeted areas beneath the skin using fine needles or cannulas.
- The hyaluronic acid binds water, subtly “plumping” the area and restoring lost volume.
- Because the filler is placed precisely, it can sculpt, smooth, or lift — depending on where it’s injected.
- Over time (often months to a year or more), your body gradually metabolizes the filler, and effects fade.
Choosing Between Restylane vs. Juvederm
Both Restylane and Juvederm are well-established HA filler families. The differences lie in texture, consistency, and ideal applications — and our experts will guide which is best for your face.
Feature
Restylane
Juvederm
Gel Texture
Slightly firmer, more structural, holds shape well
Smoother, more fluid, blends easily into tissues
Best Uses
Contouring, precise shaping (e.g. jawline, under-eye)
Softer transitions, lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds
Longevity
~6 – 12+ months (varies by formula & area)
~12 – 18+ months in many cases
Water Retention
Less “plumping” from water absorption
Slightly more hydrophilic effect (may appear “fresher”)
Placement Behavior
More “stays where placed”
Slightly more diffusion (in skilled hands, this is beneficial)
It’s not a question of which is “better” overall — it’s about which formulation best suits your facial anatomy, movement, and aesthetic goals. Oftentimes, we blend or layer products to optimize the results.
Treatment Areas & Uses
Dermal fillers can address many common aesthetic and volumetric concerns:
- Cheeks / midface volume
- Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
- Marionette lines / mouth corners
- Lips (volume, definition, “lip flip” support)
- Under-eye hollows / tear troughs
- Jawline contouring & chin projection
- Nasolabial / deep folds
- Non-surgical rhinoplasty / nose reshaping
- Hand rejuvenation (volume restoration)
Each area may favor a specific filler formula or injection technique — for example, firmer gels to support structure, smoother gels for soft blending.
What to Expect: The Process
- Consultation & Assessment: We begin with a full facial analysis — skin quality, volume loss patterns, facial mobility, symmetry, and your goals. Then we design a treatment plan, choosing the best product(s) and volumes required.
- Preparation: We cleanse, may apply numbing or cold, and mark injection points. Many of our filler products already contain lidocaine to ease discomfort.
- Injection: Using fine needles or cannulas, we inject the filler to precise depths. The session typically takes 20–45 minutes, depending on areas treated.
Aftercare & Recovery
- Mild swelling, redness, or bruising is normal — usually improving within days.
- You may see initial “plumpness” immediately; optimal smoothing appears over 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid massage, intense heat, heavy exercise, or pressure on treated areas for 24–48 hours.
- We'll give you post-care instructions to ensure the best outcome.
Results & Longevity
- Many clients see visible improvement immediately or within days.
- The full effect settles in over 1–2 weeks, after swelling subsides.
- Depending on the formula and area, results typically last 6 to 18+ months, though in low-mobility zones it may last longer.
- Over time, the filler gradually breaks down and is naturally absorbed. Touch-up sessions help maintain the look.
During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history and ensure filler treatment is a safe option.
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FAQs
Does it hurt?
Discomfort is mild — many fillers include lidocaine, and we can use topical anesthesia or cooling.
When will I see results?
You’ll often see immediate plumpness; the refined result appears over 1–2 weeks.
How long does it last?
Typically 6–18+ months or more, depending on product and area.
Can fillers be dissolved?
Yes — hyaluronic acid fillers can be reversed with hyaluronidase (in appropriate settings).
Can it be combined with other treatments?
Absolutely — many clients pair fillers with neuromodulators (Botox), skin tightening, PRP, or laser work for comprehensive rejuvenation.
How many syringes will I need?
That depends on your anatomy, degree of volume loss, and aesthetic goals. We’ll estimate during consult.