Dermal fillers, sometimes called soft tissue fillers, are substances designed to be injected beneath the surface of the skin to add volume and fullness.
Some of the common substances used in dermal fillers these days include:
Hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that can be found in our skin and body fluids. Depending on the brand, it can last from 6 to 12 months. An important advantage to HA fillers is that it can be dissolved if the results are not satisfactory.
Calcium hydroxylapatite, a mineral-like compound found in bones. In addition to adding volume, it can also stimulate collagen production. It can last up to 12 to 18 months. However, unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, once injected, there is no way to dissolve it.
Polycaprolactone, like Calcium Hydroxylapatite, also stimulates collagen production. It has a few formulations that can last from 2 to 4 years.
So what can dermal fillers correct?
Different types of dermal fillers have different features that are suited for different purposes. They can help reverse signs of ageing or augment certain features.
Fillers can:
plump up thinning lips
enhance or fill up shallow areas on the face
decrease shadowing or wrinkles under the eyes caused by sunken eyes
soften the look of indented scars
soften static wrinkles and lines, especially around the mouth and cheeks.
enhance the nose bridge and chin
The cost of dermal filler treatments varies and is dependent on the area being treated as well as the type of filler selected. The following cost per syringe:
calcium hydroxylapatite, such as Radiesse: From $700
hyaluronic acid, such as Restylane : From $750
Polycaprolactone acid, such as Ellanse : $1500