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Exploring the Benefits of Popular Facial Filler Options5 min read

Picture of Caroline Hedges

Caroline Hedges

Caroline Hedges is a critically acclaimed researcher, writer and serial entrepreneur. With a knack for making the obscure plain, she is able to distill her research in writing both fun and engaging posts.
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A facial filler is a gel-like substance that can add volume to different areas of the body. Many people think of dermal fillers merely as a convenient way to get rid of wrinkles. And they can be used that way. But fillers have broader applications for changing one’s appearance! They can also: 

  • Round out cheeks or temples with a sunken appearance; 
  • Reduce lines around the nose and lips;
  • Increase the general symmetry of facial features.

Two naturally occurring and two biocompatible substances are widely used in facial fillers. Hyaluronic acid, for starters, occurs naturally to maintain skin hydration and provide a plump look. Facial fillers made with hyaluronic acid typically last between 6 to 12 months, with the two most famous product lines being Juvéderm and Restylane.

Another naturally-occurring substance used in some facial fillers is calcium hydroxylapatite. Most facial fillers containing calcium hydroxylapatite are thicker and last closer to 12 months. Many professionals employ these facial fillers to treat lines and wrinkles that are deeper than usual. 

The final two facial filler substances to be aware of are poly-L-lactic acid and polymethylmethacrylate, which lead to longer-lasting effects than other facial fillers. While it might sound nerve-wracking to introduce such substances into your body, both have been used in the medical field for decades. You might already have experienced poly-L-lactic acid — it’s a crucial part of dissolvable stitches!

What Are the Different Types of Fillers?

Let’s take a closer look at two of the most widely-known facial fillers on the market — Juvéderm and Restylane. While both are approved by the FDA for facial rejuvenation treatments, Juvéderm and Restylane work their magic differently in each patient, depending on their circumstances. For example, Juvéderm is known for lasting slightly longer than a single treatment of Restylane because of its higher percentage of cross-linked hyaluronic acid. On the other hand, Restylane has a greater chance of staying exactly where it is injected. This perk sometimes makes Restylane the superior facial filler for increasing volume. 

Another point of comparison is the cost of these facial fillers. Although they cost roughly the same, Restylane patients can choose between two different dose sizes. Patients using Juvéderm, on the other hand, must purchase a full syringe. 

Another factor that might impact your decision is the length of time that the treatments last. As noted above, a single treatment of Juvéderm is known to last an entire year. However, if a patient using Restylane has time for a follow-up treatment at either five or nine months after their initial treatment, their results might last up to 18 months!

Pros and Cons of Each Type of Filler

Facial fillers have become a popular cosmetic procedure for those looking to enhance their appearance and address various skin concerns. With their ability to dissolve, multi-benefits, and temporary effects, facial fillers offer several advantages that make them a worthwhile consideration for those in search of a cosmetic solution. Whether you’re experiencing pain in your facial muscles, persistent migraines, or simply looking for a way to restore volume and smooth wrinkles, facial fillers may be a suitable option for you.

Facial Fillers Are Dissolvable

A significant upside of facial fillers, especially when comparing them with more intensive cosmetic procedures, is that they can dissolve. Whether the patient dislikes their appearance or an adverse event makes it medically advisable, facial fillers are just as simple to dissolve as they are to inject. However, the benefits of facial fillers — whether they last 12 or 18 months — are temporary compared to more intensive and recovery-heavy treatment options.

Facial Fillers Are Multi-Beneficial

Another significant point in favor of facial fillers is that their benefits, in some cases, are not merely cosmetic. Facial fillers can also help with pain in facial muscles or persistent migraines. In addition, the hyaluronic acid in facial fillers increases water retention, which can be especially beneficial for patients who would otherwise experience chapped lips. While facial fillers may not be the go-to for individuals looking for relief from migraines or chapped lips, these results may come as an unintended side effect.

Facial Fillers Are Temporary

Whether it’s Juvéderm or Restylane that sounds like a better fit for you, keep in mind that these facial fillers are not permanent. The average period for lasting effects is approximately 12 to 18 months. That being said, no filler is truly permanent. Even those labeled “permanent dermal fillers,” while undoubtedly long-lasting, typically only last around five years before being broken down by the body. Since no option is permanent, take your time and be confident in choosing whichever filler is appropriate for your needs.

Which Filler Is Best for Each Specific Treatment Area?

With all of these considerations in mind, how is one to choose which facial filler will suit their needs best? Here are a few facts to keep in mind. Juvéderm, for starters, is typically most effective when used for lip augmentation or facial wrinkles. Restylane, on the other hand, is often used to treat brow and smile lines, lips, as well as the nasolabial folds and the area under the eyes. Of course, this greater versatility is counterbalanced by a six-to-eight-month range if one forgoes a follow-up treatment.

Start Your Filler Journey With Us at Aesthetica!

Ready for your facial filler treatment plan? Come meet with us at 19500 Sandridge Way, Suite 350, Leesburg, VA 20176, or call us at (703) 574-4342 for a complimentary consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Phillip Chang before moving forward with your procedure! If everything matches up, our team will help you navigate the entire process, from beginning to end! Also, don’t forget to check out our blog and social media for more information on plastic surgery and plastic surgery trends!

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