If you have noticed lines and wrinkles when you look in the mirror, you may have started considering ways to get rid of them. Wrinkles occur for many reasons, including natural aging, sun exposure, and repetitive facial movements. But, just because they appear does not mean we have to live with them! Today there are several options available at med spas like Upkeep Med Spa to help you reduce the visible signs of wrinkles.

You have likely heard about Botox and dermal fillers. If you are new to this type of skin treatment, you might wonder what fillers are and how they differ from Botox treatments. Below we have answered a few of the most common questions about fillers and how they might help you achieve your appearance goals.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are a specific type of injectable treatment that adds volume and fullness to the treatment area. Fillers are also called "soft tissue fillers" because they act within the soft tissue to reduce visible wrinkles. Unlike Botox, fillers do not minimize or prevent muscle movement; instead, they "fill in" areas where wrinkles are present.

What are Fillers Made From?

There are several FDA-approved fillers. Most are a combination of several ingredients. Because many of these ingredients are naturally found throughout the body, the chances of an adverse reaction to fillers are vastly reduced.

Most fillers have a hyaluronic acid-base. Hyaluronic acid is a compound found in various body tissues. It helps to give the skin a plump, full appearance. Other ingredients found in fillers include calcium hydroxyapatite (a compound found in the bones), polyalkylimide (a transparent gel compatible with body tissues), and polylactic acid (a substance that stimulates collagen production).

What Types of Fillers are There?

There are several filler options. The most common include Juvéderm and Restylane. Each has different formulations depending on your treatment needs.

What Can Fillers Do?

The ingredients in fillers address sagging skin and wrinkles in different ways. Also, each "type" of filler is uniquely formulated to address different areas of the face. For example, Juvéderm Ultra+, Juvéderm Volbella, Juvéderm Vollure, Restylane Defyne, Restylane Refyne, and Restylane Kysse are used to treat various concerns around the nose, mouth, and lips. Juvéderm Voluma and  Restylane Lyft work on the cheeks and jawline. Contact us today to schedule a consultation appointment if you would like to learn more about these treatments at Upkeep Med Spa and which one might be right for you.

It is important to remember that dermal fillers, when used as a wrinkle treatment, are meant to address a specific type of wrinkle called static wrinkles. Static wrinkles form due to skin damage (such as sun damage) and aging rather than from repetitive facial movements (dynamic wrinkles).

How Long Do Fillers Last?

It varies. Some fillers will last between six and twelve months, whereas others may last for two or more years. The duration of a filler depends on the type and factors unique to the person. In general, fillers last longer than Botox injections.

Are There Side Effects to Fillers?

Dermal fillers are considered safe for most people. However, like any procedure, there are possible side effects. The most common include bruising, redness, and swelling in the treatment area. In most cases, the side effects associated with fillers resolve within a few days.

How Much Do Fillers Cost?

The cost of fillers will depend on a couple of factors. The first is the type of filler used. Some types of fillers are more expensive than others or require more units to address a specific treatment area. Another factor that influences the cost is the size of the treatment area. More extensive treatment areas will cost more to treat than smaller areas.

If you are interested in learning more about dermal fillers and how they may be able to help you reduce the signs of aging on your skin, let our caring, experienced team  work with you to determine which filler may be best for your needs. Contact Upkeep Med Spa today to learn more about dermal fillers and the other skin treatments at Upkeep Med Spa.