Dermal Fillers

As a person ages, their skin loses volume. This leads to wrinkles, thinning of the lips, deepening of the nasolabial folds and hollowing of the cheeks and temples.

Dermal fillers are used to shape facial contours, create fuller lips and soften facial lines by restoring volume to the skin that has been lost as a result of the ageing process. Fillers can give natural results without changing your facial expression.

Three common areas treated with fillers include:

• Nasolabial folds (lines between the nose and corner of the mouth)
• Lips
• Marionette lines (from the corner of the mouth downwards)

The following information answers frequently asked questions (FAQs) about dermal fillers.

What are dermal filers made of?

There are two categories of dermal fillers: Permanent and semi-permanent. Permanent fillers are made of non-absorbable substances like calcium. The most commonly used semi-permanent fillers are composed of a sugar-like molecule called hyaluronic acid (not really an acid). Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of human skin.

How do dermal filler treatments work?

Dermal fillers "plump up" wrinkles and unwanted skin folds by adding volume to deep skin layers. Hyaluronic fillers like Restylane and Juvederm also improve skin tone by binding water, improving skin hydration and contributing to collagen formation.

How quickly does one see results?

Dermal fillers work immediately.

How long do semi-permanent fillers like Juvederm and Restylane last?

Duration depends on several factors including the person’s age, skin type and area treated. In general, these types of fillers can last between 9-12 months.

How do I know which type of filler is best for me?

Before your treatment, Dr. Gross will perform a detailed consultation. At this consultation you will discuss the look you wish to achieve. Following this, he will explain which dermal filler is best for your requirements and how you can expect to look afterwards.

Are dermal filler treatments safe?

Yes. Fillers have been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of facial wrinkles. Both Juvederm and Restylane have been approved by the FDA for this purpose.

How much does a filler treatment cost?

The price depends on the number of areas treated and the depth of one’s wrinkles. The cost is determined during the consultation.

Do the injections hurt?

Dr. Gross utilizes a special local anesthetic cream that eases any discomfort. Most people who receive filler for nasolabial folds or marionette lines do not require any additional anesthetic. Everyone who undergoes lip augmentation requires a nerve block similar to the type one undergoes when going to the dentist.

Does Dr. Gross administer the injections himself?

Yes. Only Dr. Gross administers the injections.

How long does the procedure take?

In general, the procedure takes about 15-30 minutes.

What will I need to do after treatment?

You should leave the treated area alone for 48 hours to allow it to settle in. Facials or any other treatments that could disturb the products or expose the newly-treated areas to strong sunlight should be avoided for 2-3 days.

Can fillers be repeated?

Yes. In most cases, fillers can be repeated as often as is desired.