The cosmetic industry has advanced greatly in the past decade, and there seems to be a lot of confusion around fillers and injectables. Some people think Botox is the only type of injectable cosmetic medicine, some believe injectables can replace surgery, and others think injectables make everyone look overdone. Some fillers are more versatile than other fillers, and it is vital to understand that the product choice and product injection technique will determine your treatment outcome. It is important to go to an office run by a board-certified dermatologist or board-certified plastic surgeon to help explain injectables and how they can be used so you can get a beautiful, natural looking treatment. Read on to learn more about fillers and injectables so you can feel confident with your treatment option.
When would a laser be used in conjunction with fillers and toxins?
Aging is a complex process and single therapies, such as injectables, might be insufficient in dealing with all the signs that appear with time. Instead of using one method exclusively, we tend to use combination therapies. The most natural result is attained using multiple treatments.
Lasers and fillers
- Both can be used effectively for the treatment of static wrinkles. The depth of the wrinkle, skin type, and recovery time after the procedure may influence the choice of either method.
- Fillers are the primary therapy for deep volume loss, and lasers are the first method to be used for superficial lines, loss of elastin, and sun damage. Lasers will improve skin quality, and fillers can treat deeper effects.
The combination of fillers and lasers creates synergistic results. Together, they will reverse the aging process far better than each one can on its own. A combination of fillers and lasers is also possible in the same session depending on which tools are used. When a full-face laser resurfacing is planned, the resurfacing should be first, and the filler should follow when the skin is healed and swelling has subsided, usually 4-6 weeks post laser.
What age-related issues are fillers and toxins used For?
Aging is a continuous process that ranges from mild to very severe deficiencies. When it comes to fillers and toxins, it is not only the injection technique that makes the difference but understanding the aging process and at what point of the aging curve the patient stands.
Lines become more pronounced due to muscular hyperactivity and/or elastosis. Skin laxity and sagginess happen as we lose bone structure and fat tissue under the skin. Injectables have the ability to slow down the aging process by controlling the signs of aging. It is important to understand that several interventions need to be employed to get the best results (injectables, lasers/chemical peels, topical products, and surgery).
When are toxins and fillers Used?
Neurotoxins are the best tool for the upper third of the face, while injectable fillers are optimal for the mid- and lower thirds. Toxins will reduce lines in the forehead, around the eyes, and around the mouth. They are also used to help lift and reshape the brows, making the patient appear more rested and refreshed. Fillers are injected to replace lost volume and give structure back to the face. They can be used to replace volume loss under the eyes, in the cheeks, and in the lines around the mouth. Fillers are also used to augment the cheeks, chin, and lips.
How can fillers make you look “done?”
A common challenge that can be seen is over-injection at the cheekbone level or in the lips, which is not considered aesthetically appealing. Both patients and injectors need to be aware of balance and proportion in these areas. It is also important to correct the face on a global level. If only part of the face is corrected, it will not look normal, and the uncorrected areas will be even more distracting.
Furthermore, it is important not to forget about the three-dimensional view. What looks good from the front might not look good from the sides. Patients must also be evaluated not only front on, but from all angles. They must also be evaluated not only in a static position, but also in animation.
How can fillers be reversed if you don’t like the results?
Hyaluronic acid fillers can be reversed with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. It is injected into the area the filler was placed, causing it to dissolve immediately
How do collagen stimulators work? How do they produce collagen differently than other products?
Collagen stimulators, such as Poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA), offer more than just a filling effect. PLLA is a synthetic biodegradable material. When injected into the dermis or subdermis, it becomes a facial volumizer as it gradually stimulates collagen formation to restructure the facial tissue. This is a gradual process, usually 3 sessions are required to get optimal results. PLLA has a volumizing effect through its unique collagen stimulation properties and is ideal for the temples, the cheeks, and restoration of the mandibular line.
If you are interested in learning more about fillers and neurotoxins in the Scottsdale area, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with one of our expert injectors.