What Are Dermal Fillers? Answers to 5 Top Questions

Dermal fillers have gained immense popularity for their versatility and transformative abilities. These injectable treatments can be used all over the face to great effect, from the subtlest touch-up to more dramatic results. But what are dermal fillers, exactly? Below, we answer your top questions.

#1. What Are Dermal Fillers?

Often referred to as soft tissue fillers, dermal fillers consist of gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin’s surface. Many are based on hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance that occurs naturally in the body and gives volume and hydration to the skin. Others, such as RADIESSE and Sculptra, contain ingredients that trigger your body to produce more of its own collagen. Fillers are used to plump up areas that have lost volume due to aging or other factors. At The Swan Center, we use dermal fillers to smooth wrinkles, create subtle lift, and enhance facial contours for a more youthful and defined appearance.

#2. How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?

The longevity of dermal fillers varies depending on the type of filler used and individual factors such as your metabolism and lifestyle. Generally, hyaluronic acid fillers (like those from the Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® family of products) can last anywhere from 6 to 2 years, based on the formulation.

RADIESSE®, meanwhile, contains calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres. This durable collagen stimulator can last 12 to 18 months.

#3. Where Can Dermal Fillers Be Used?

Dermal fillers can be safely used throughout the face and even injected into the hands or buttocks (such as in our Sculptra® Butt Lift). HA fillers (Restylane® and JUVÉDERM®) are great for treating wrinkles and folds in the lower half of the face and restoring volume loss in the mid-face.

Restylane and Juvederm can treat nasolabial folds, marionette lines (vertical lines at each corner of the mouth that extend down toward the jawline), lipstick lines, smile lines, and more.

Sculptra can also be used to help restore lost volume to the face. Both Radiesse and Sculptra can be used to help in different areas of the body such as hands, knees, and in the buttocks to enhance projection and correct hip dips.

Learn more about treating wrinkles in each area of the face in our related blog post.

#4. How Much Do Dermal Fillers Cost?

Dermal filler prices vary based on the type of filler used, the amount of product needed, and the provider’s expertise. At The Swan Center, we price our dermal fillers by the syringe.

You can get a ballpark figure on our pricing page, but keep in mind that most patients need multiple syringes. We will provide you with a personalized quote at your consultation after we have had a chance to evaluate your unique case.

#5. Are Dermal Fillers Safe?

Dermal fillers are generally considered safe, especially when administered by a trained and experienced provider. However, like any cosmetic procedure, there are potential risks and side effects to be aware of, including bruising, swelling, redness, and, rarely, allergic reactions.

Hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Restylane can be instantly dissolved with hyaluronidase if you are showing any negative effects or are unhappy with how the filler looks. Choosing a reputable injector who follows proper injection techniques can help you minimize the already low risk of complications.

Get Started With Dermal Fillers

If you’re considering dermal fillers to rejuvenate your appearance and enhance your natural beauty, we’d love to chat! We will be happy to assess your unique needs and goals, recommend the most suitable treatment options, and answer any questions you may have.

If you are ready to take the next step, please request a consultation online or call us at (770) 667-0904 to schedule an appointment!