filler FAQs: answering our most commonly asked questions
Whether you are seeking a plumper lips, lifted cheeks, or total facial balancing, dermal fillers are one of the most popular and gratifying aesthetic treatments available at Elevate Medical Spa. Most of our first-timers understandably have some questions about the procedure. Below are some frequently asked questions to help you understand the process.
What are fillers made out of?
Filler is most commonly composed of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps maintain hydration and plumpness in the skin. The average human has about 15 grams of Hyaluronan in their body, commonly found in various connective tissues. The benefit to hyaluronic acid filler is its reversibility – this substance can be dissolved later if needed.
What’s the difference between Botox and filler?
Botox and fillers are both used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, but they work in different ways. Botox and Dysport are neurotoxins injected into facial muscles to temporarily relax them and reduce the appearance of wrinkles caused by muscle activity, such as frown lines, crow's feet, and forehead lines. Neurotoxins are used to treat dynamic wrinkles, which are caused by repeated muscle contractions.
On the other hand, fillers are used to add volume and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines caused by a loss of facial volume. When injected beneath the skin, fillers can plump up areas that have lost volume, such as the cheeks, lips, and under eyes. Fillers can also be used to fill in wrinkles and lines that are caused by a loss of volume or collagen, such as smile lines or nasolabial folds.
Beyond restoring volume related to aging, filler is also used to sculpt, balance, and beautify the face. The most common areas treated are lips, cheeks, jawline, chin, under eye, temples, and nose. Facial balancing is a common practice where your injector analyzes the entire face, determining several “tweaks” to make subtle yet impactful changes to create more harmony while still looking like yourself. The best results come from treating the face holistically, not just focusing on one area!
How much filler do I need?
A syringe of filler may sound like a lot, but one syringe of filler is only about the size of a blueberry. Several syringes may be required, depending on your goals. At Elevate, we always offer complimentary consultations to provide an estimate and full facial evaluation.
Is it painful?
After consultation, your injector applies numbing cream to the area to make it as comfortable as possible. Some areas like the lips are more sensitive, but overall most patients only feel mild discomfort.
Is it safe?
Fillers are perfectly safe in the hands of a qualified injector who has the proper training and anatomy knowledge. It’s also essential that you chat with your provider about your medical history, recent dental work, and any medications you’re taking beforehand to ensure nothing will impact the safety of the treatment.
What is the downtime?
You can expect mild bruising, swelling, and tenderness for a few days after treatment. The effect of filler is immediate, but best results are seen in 2 weeks once all swelling has subsided and the filler has settled into the tissue.
Will I look overdone?
With the right injector, you will never look overdone or have the dreaded “pillow face” or “duck lips.” Filler strategically placed in the right areas will only enhance and refresh your appearance, not overtake your face.
How long do results last?
Depending on the area treated and your metabolism, filler can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.
Want to learn more about filler and if it’s right for you? Schedule an appointment or complimentary consultation with one of our experienced and talented injectors. Call us at 813.765.4416 or schedule online in South Tampa, Plant City, or Lakeland.