Balle Bliss

Dermal Fillers

The Science Behind Dermal Fillers: How Do They Work?

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Author

Annette Brooks

For concerns such as facial volume loss, thin lips, or lines and wrinkles, many individuals explore options to maintain a refreshed appearance without undergoing invasive interventions. Dermal fillers offer a compelling treatment, especially for those curious about addressing facial volume loss or softening the appearance of wrinkles.

At Balle Bliss Luxury Medical Spa in Cypress, TX, we believe in providing clarity on how these treatments work, empowering our clients with knowledge to make informed decisions. We will discuss all of the dermal filler options we offer at our med spa and how each one can help draw out your natural features.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to restore or enhance various areas of the face. They can provide volume, shape, and lift to targeted regions, aiding in the reduction of wrinkles, fine lines, and facial hollows. Made from various components like hyaluronic acid, these fillers offer a temporary, non-surgical approach to facial enhancement.

What Is the Role of Dermal Fillers in Facial Rejuvenation?

  • Under-eye filler: Dermal fillers rejuvenate the under-eye area by addressing hollows and dark circles, giving the face a fresher and more alert appearance.
  • Lip filler: Dermal fillers can bring rejuvenation to the lips by enhancing their natural fullness and contour, leading to a more youthful and balanced look.
  • Cheek filler:  Fillers can play a significant role in facial rejuvenation by restoring volume to the cheeks, offering a natural-looking lift and reducing the appearance of aging.
  • Jaw filler: Through the use of dermal fillers, the jawline can be sharply defined and contoured, rejuvenating the lower facial profile.
  • Chin filler: Dermal fillers used in the chin region can contribute to facial rejuvenation by enhancing its projection, achieving a harmonious balance with other facial features.

How Do Dermal Fillers Work?

Dermal fillers are designed to be injected beneath the skin, where they integrate with the surrounding tissue. These facial fillers can then attract and bind water, leading to a plumping effect that looks natural and can smooth out wrinkles and add volume. Over time, the body naturally absorbs the filler, but the results can last several months to years, depending on the type used and individual factors.

Two Different Types of Cosmetic Injectables

Dermal Fillers

Often referred to as cosmetic fillers, dermal fillers are biocompatible materials that are injected beneath the skin to help restore lost volume, smooth out wrinkles, and contour certain areas of the face. These fillers can be made with different ingredients, with hyaluronic acid being the most prevalent. Once injected, they provide immediate volume.

Biostimulators

Unlike traditional dermal fillers that provide immediate volume, biostimulators work by stimulating the body’s natural collagen production over time. While the results are not instantaneous, except when incorporating a gel carrier, they tend to be longer-lasting because of the anti-aging effect. This not only provides volume but also improves skin texture and resilience. Biostimulators offer a more gradual and natural-looking enhancement, making them a favored choice for individuals seeking subtle and long-lasting changes.

Comparing the Different Brands of Dermal Fillers and How They Work

Juvederm® 

Juvederm is a family of dermal fillers made with hyaluronic acid. The specific formulations within the Juvederm family cater to a range of concerns, from lip augmentation to addressing deeper folds and wrinkles. 

How Does It Work?

Upon injection, Juvederm immediately adds volume to the targeted areas, smoothing out wrinkles and folds. Its hyaluronic acid base attracts and holds moisture, offering both instant and sustained results. The gel’s smooth texture also provides results that look natural.

Restylane®

Restylane is another line of injectable fillers that use hyaluronic acid. Its diverse range of products are crafted to tackle various facial challenges, such as fine lines, deeper wrinkles, and volume loss in areas like the cheeks and lips.

How Does It Work?

Once Restylane is injected beneath the skin, it acts swiftly to fill wrinkles or add volume to desired areas. Restylane uses unique technology to integrate beautifully into the tissue of the face to allow for natural movement and authentic-looking results. 

Sculptra®

Distinguishing itself from other fillers, Sculptra utilizes poly-L-lactic acid, a biocompatible and biodegradable synthetic substance. It falls under the category of biostimulators and is designed to trigger collagen production rather than merely filling wrinkles or lines.

How Does It Work?

After Sculptra is injected, it begins to work with your body to produce more collagen. The effects are gradual, but the consistent increase in collagen provides volume and an enhanced skin texture that can last for an extended period. Usually, Sculptra is injected in a series of three treatments with increased results with each session.

Radiesse®

Radiesse has a distinct composition, with calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres that are suspended in a gel filler. It is unique in that it is both a dermal filler and a biostimulator and is optimized for addressing deeper wrinkles and compensating for volume loss.

How Does It Work?

Upon injection, Radiesse immediately offers volume and lift. Then, it gets to work stimulating natural collagen production in the body around the scaffolding that it has created. As time passes, the body processes the gel and metabolizes the calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres, leaving the newly produced natural collagen in its place.

A Closer Look At Dermal Fillers

How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?

The longevity of cosmetic fillers largely depends on the type of filler that we use, the area treated, and individual factors like metabolism and skin type. Usually, hyaluronic acid fillers last between six and 18 months. Some other fillers, especially those that stimulate collagen production, might offer results that last up to two years or more. Regular maintenance and follow-up treatments can extend the duration of the desired effect.

Can Dermal Fillers Look Natural?

Absolutely. The key to achieving a natural look with injectable fillers lies in the art of application. A skilled practitioner will assess the facial structure, symmetry, and individual desires of the client to administer the right amount of filler in precise locations. This approach not only addresses the specific concerns but also harmonizes with the overall facial aesthetics.

Restoring Volume and Contour With Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are a promising treatment for those looking to rejuvenate their appearance without invasive interventions. At Balle Bliss Luxury Medical Spa in Cypress, TX, we combine expertise with cutting-edge treatments to meet the aesthetic aspirations of our clients. If you’re considering exploring the benefits of dermal fillers or have any questions, we invite you to reach out to us. You can also complete our online form or give us a call at (281) 758-2777 for a personalized consultation.