What is a dermal filler?
A dermal filler is a substance Dr. Olarte uses to fill in loose skin and wrinkles to create a more youthful appearance. Depending on your needs, she may use these fillers to fill facial creases, plump up the lips, and sculpt the cheeks. Dermal fillers can also reverse the signs of aging by lifting sagging facial tissues, sculpting the jaw line, and softening the jowls.
What dermal fillers are available?
Dr. Olarte offers several dermal fillers to patients, including Juvederm, Radiesse, Voluma, and Restylane. Each of these fillers offers different advantages and is designed for a different purpose.
How do these dermal fillers differ from each other?
Juvederm and Voluma are hyaluronic acid matrix fillers. Dr. Olarte may use these dermal fillers to treat nasolabial folds and other deep wrinkles. Juvederm is also effective for lip augmentation.
Radiesse is a dermal filler composed of calcium hydroxyapatite particles suspended in hyaluronic gel. It’s best for broader, deeper folds such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines.
Restylane is another hyaluronic acid filler. Dr. Olarte may use this filler for lines beneath the eyes, near the eyebrows, or near the mouth. Restylane may also be effective in reducing the appearance of nasolabial folds.
How can patients choose the right filler?
Dermal fillers have different intended purposes and last for different amounts of time. Dr. Olarte can help you decide which filler is right for you based on your treatment goals.
How does Dr. Olarte administer dermal fillers?
Dr. Olarte administers dermal fillers with a thin needle. To reduce discomfort, she applies topical anesthetic to the skin before the injection. Treatment with dermal fillers is a short process that Dr. Olarte completes in her office.
Is the procedure painful?
Because of the topical anesthetic, most patients feel very little pain during the procedure. The procedure also requires little to no downtime, so patients are able to return to their normal activities almost immediately.
How long do the results last?
Different dermal fillers will last for different amounts of time. While some produce results that last for only 6 months, others may produce results that last for 18 months or more.
