With a deeper understanding of facial aging, the Medical Aesthetics industry has expanded, with dermal fillers being the second most popular treatment for the facial area. This procedure has become widespread due to its often subtle, natural results. But what exactly is dermal filler? Here, we outline this treatment, including how it works, areas that it can help address, risks, and more, so you and your patients know exactly what to expect.

What are dermal fillers, and how do they work?

Dermal fillers are designed to help temporarily fill moderate to severe wrinkles and folds, and for the correction of age-related volume loss in the midface. Most dermal fillers have a temporary effect due to containing biodegradable materials that are absorbed by the body over time. There are many different types of materials used in dermal fillers. The most common materials are collagen, Hyaluronic acid, Calcium hydroxylapatite, and Poly-L-lactic acid:

• Collagen

  is a protein and is a major part of skin and other tissues in the body. Effects of collagen fillers generally last for approximately 3-4 months.

• Hyaluronic acid (HA)

  is a molecule naturally found in the human body that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. When injected beneath the skin, dermal fillers not only help plump up the areas that have lost volume, but the HA helps attract water to the area to help plump the appearance of the treated area even more. Additionally, many dermal fillers are also formulated to include lidocaine to help reduce sensitivity during injection in the treatment area.

• Calcium hydroxylapatite

  is a mineral commonly found in human teeth and bones. When used for wrinkle filling, the particles are suspending in a gel-like solution and then injected in the face or hand with results lasting approximately 18 months.

• Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)

  is a man-made biodegradable material and is long-lasting (approximately two years) and usually given in a series of injections over a period of several months.

What areas can be treated with dermal fillers?

Dermal filler is commonly used to treat moderate to severe facial folds, lines, and wrinkles.²

What are the risks associated with dermal fillers?

Every dermal filler product is different, and thus the risks will vary according to each individual product. Possible side effects for all fillers include bruising, infection, and edemas.¹ While most adverse reactions are mild and temporary, there’s a possibility for more serious side effects to occur.

Since side effects can be serious, it is important for Medical Aesthetics professionals, and those exploring a career in this field, to be highly educated and trained in this procedure to minimize any side effects for patients.