Facial fillers, also commonly called dermal fillers, are not a new procedure to the cosmetic dermatology world. In fact, facial fillers have grown to become the second most common cosmetic procedure in the United States. However, what many people may not know is that different types of fillers can serve very different purposes. The choice of filler is based on the area to be treated, patient characteristics, and the desired effect. For example, the same filler that we use to lift and add volume in the cheeks would not look natural in someone’s lips. Here we want a softer, more delicate filler.
Vujevich Dermatology predominately uses fillers that are made of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a component of normal skin. This means the risk of reactions, such as allergies, to the filler is very low. We also prefer hyaluronic acid fillers because they can be dissolved with an injectable enzyme, should there be any adverse reaction to the filler or if the patient doesn’t like it. This rarely to never happens, but it’s nice to know that it’s an option! We carry three different brands of hyaluronic acid fillers. Each brand makes several types of filler for the reasons listed above.
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Restylane®
Restylane® was the first hyaluronic acid filler introduced in the United States back in 2003. Since then there have been numerous other fillers developed in this line including Restylane Lyft®, Restylane Silk®, Restylane Refyne®, and Restylane Defyne®. Restylane® is commonly used for the nasolabial folds (smile lines), marionette lines, and undereye hollows. Restylane Lyft® is thicker filler that we commonly use to add volume to the cheeks, temples, or hands. Whereas, Restylane Silk® is a soft, thinner filler that we commonly use in the lips and in the vertical lines around the mouth. Lastly, Restylane Refyne® and Defyne® are newer fillers that are meant to be more pliable and move with you and your facial expressions. We use these in many of the same places that we use regular Restylane® and Restylane Silk®.
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Juvéderm®
Juvéderm® was first approved by the FDA in 2006. Since then they have also developed an entire line of fillers. At Vujevich Dermatology we use Juvéderm®, Juvéderm® Ultra, and Juvéderm Voluma®. Juvéderm® Ultra is a soft filler that creates a very natural enhancement of the lip. Juvéderm® is a filler that has a little more structure than Juvéderm® Ultra. For that reason, we use it in the nasolabial folds (smile lines) and marionette lines. Lastly, Juvéderm Voluma® is a filler that has more lift and body. This makes it a great filler for the cheeks and temples. It is also the first filler that was studied for two years after treatment and proven to last for the duration.
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Belotero Balance®
Belotero Balance® was introduced in 2012 and at that time was the first filler of its kind. It is a thin, smooth filler that we are able to place high in the skin without creating a lumpy appearance. This makes it perfect for fine lines around the lips, cheeks, and neck. It can also be placed in the lips themselves and under eye area.
Most dermal fillers are commonly considered facial fillers. However, they can also be used on different areas of the body such as the neck and hands. Facial fillers used for other areas of the body work in similar ways by adding volume to these areas and filling in lines and wrinkles. Whether you’re considering facial fillers or fillers for other areas of the body, it is always best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
Knowing the different types of facial fillers offered by your dermatologist, as well as what these facial fillers are used for, will help you to have an informed discussion about your cosmetic concerns and the best way to address them. You can schedule an appointment with Vujevich Dermatology Associates to discuss the different types of facial fillers and how they may work for you.
Vujevich Dermatology Associates offers medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology from some of the most highly trained physicians and clinicians in the greater Pittsburgh area. You can reach our team at 412-429-2570 or visit our contact page to see all of our locations. You can also follow us on Facebook to see what’s new in the world of dermatology.