Whether you can spot them or not, dermal fillers are everywhere. Just look at some of the most notable faces in music, the movies, television and on social media—lots of them have been treated with dermal fillers.
However, the procedure is a non-invasive, swiss army knife in terms of cosmetic and even rehabilitative procedures. They can treat a lot more “conditions” than what they’re known for, which makes dermal fillers a versatile tool to achieve some of the most coveted looks.
This post will cover both common and not-so-widely known uses for this technique.
- Adding volume to lips
Considering the amount of pouty selfies on social media, it’s clear that plump lips are a beauty standard du jour. Of course, nature doesn’t gift everyone with thick lips, leaving some wanting more in that department.
Dermal fillers add volume to those who want those lips. Patients receive usually receive a few shots of collagen and hyaluronic fillers over a period of several months to prevent an overinflated look. With that said, lip fillers last 6-12 months, meaning patients will need 1-2 “touch ups” a year to maintain their new look.
Notable Examples: Kylie Jenner, Kim Kardashian, Jessica Simpson and Chrissy Teigen.
- Adding volume to under-eyes
As the years go by, your under-eye may literally enter a “sunken place”. The vital proteins that give your skin its volume and plumpness— collagen and elastin—decrease, leaving under your eyes with a hollow appearance. Of course, no one wants that because it can give you a tired look.
Again, dermal fillers can do wonders for your eyes. They add volume to your under-eye area, which helps reduce those pesky dark circles, fine lines, and eye wrinkles. Typically, clinicians use hyaluronic acid fillers to add volume here, and do so 1-3 times every few months to reach a desired result. Afterwards, the patient will get maintenance treatments a few times per year.
Notable Examples: Katie Perry
- Sculpting chin and jaw
Let’s face it—many would like a sharp, well-defined jawline. Researchers have confirmed that a strong jaw projects assertiveness, dominance and strength, all without you saying or doing anything. Of course, ageing and genetics can give you less-than-stellar jaw aesthetics.
Dermal fillers stiffen the skin surrounding your jaw, minimizing jowls and sharpening a weak chin. Bear in mind that they don’t permanently change your jaw structure—they just give it the illusion of appearing sharper. However, clinicians will sometimes suggest getting additional fillers for the cheeks to balance and compliment jaw fillers.
- Fading lines and wrinkles
Father Time gifts us with lines and wrinkles that get deeper and longer as the years pass. That includes “tech neck lines”, folds that appear from perpetual screen time, laugh lines, sagging earlobes and more. Thanks a lot!
Of course, popular treatments like Botox can reverse the appearance of lines and wrinkles, but so can dermal fillers. They work differently than neuromodulators, by restoring collagen and elastin volume, which when increased, tightens and smoothes skin. With that said, you can use dermal fillers in conjunction with botox for longer-lasting results.
Notable examples: Joe Jonas, Kim Karsdashian
- Serving as a liquid rhinoplasty
Yes, you’re heard that right—dermal fillers can function as a nose job alternative. See, not everyone who wants to change their nose is looking for a dramatic transformation—just a minor tweak here and there. And for those little fixes, a full out rhinoplasty is unnecessary.
Clinicians can therefore use dermal fillers as a nonsurgical rhinoplasty for things like flat nasal bridges, drooping tips and bumps. They can provide just enough lift to define the nose without having to go under the knife.
- Restoring facial fat loss
Unfortunately, some people deal with cosmetic dissatisfaction due to health conditions. For example, HIV sufferers often deal with facial lipoatrophy, which refers to loss of facial fat. This makes the cheeks look sunken and gaunt, which can erode one’s confidence.
Dermal fillers can restore some fullness to the cheeks, which reverses that hollow look. This gives patients a healthier look, and more confidence in their appearance.
- Reducing acne scarring
When you think of top-notch, high-grade acne treatment, you probably think of Acutane, Proactive or laser treatment. And of course, they can do wonders for patients.
But what happens when scars form—and linger?
Consider dermal fillers. When injected, they lift depressed skin (which contributes to scarring) to make it look brighter and smoother in texture. The result? Fewer visible scars and pits.
Bonus Use: Foot Pain
Wearing high heels gives you a few inches and discomfort. It’s a yin-and-yang harmony that everyone wearing heels just accepts. But what if we told you that dermal fillers could make a difference?
Well, we’re telling you that they can. Collagen-based injections can add volume and bulk to the foot, which essentially acts like padding. That allows you to walk around in heels without feeling the soreness they cause.
Who’s a Good Candidate vs Who’s Not
You can see now that dermal fillers can address multiple complaints and discomfort zones. They’re not just reserved for those who want voluminous lips and cheeks. With that said, dermal fillers have their limits (like any cosmetic procedure), and aren’t suitable for certain issues or patients. It’s helpful to know who is a good, not-so-good, or poor candidate.
Good Candidates for Dermal Fillers
- Focused on the lower half of the face— Dermal fillers are ideal for people who have cosmetic complaints below the eyes. That includes every procedure involving hollow under-eyes, thin lips and a weak jawline. These areas have lots of collagen and elastin, making them more responsive to fillers in the first place.
- Want to restructure your face— If you’re not a fan of your facial bone structure, then dermal treatments can—excuse the pun— fill in the gaps. Its plumping action gives the face volume that certain bone structures don’t provide.
Not-So-Great Candidates for Dermal Fillers
- Focused above the eyes— As you head above the eyes, dermal fillers don’t have as much practical use. Opt for neuromodulating treatments instead such as Botox and Dysport, especially if you’re dealing with crow’s feet, forehead lines and frown lines.
- Deep signs of ageing— If you want to get rid of things like turkey neck, heavy jowls and very deep wrinkles, then you’ll need more invasive treatments. These conditions indicate a level of structural degradation that dermal fillers can’t resolve on their own.
Poor Candidates for Dermal Fillers
- Unrealistic expectations—Remember, dermal fillers aren’t a cure-all for cosmetic complaints. They have limitations and patients looking for dramatic transformations will be disappointed by dermal fillers. These patients are better candidates for under-the-knife techniques.
Keep in mind that a clinical evaluation is necessary to fully determine whether a patient will be a good candidate for dermal fillers. That may mean getting approved or rejected for reasons not listed above.
Different Fillers for Different Folks
Now dermal fillers come in different preparations, some of which are better-suited for certain procedures than others. That’s why it’s important to speak with a clinician before making requests.
A practitioner will decide what filler is best for you, depending on your desired goals, as well as your general state of health, age and other factors. That way, you’ll be primed to get the best results with minimal or no side effects.
At PSSC, we bring many years of expertise and success using dermal fillers for various aesthetic goals. If you’re looking to add volume to your face, reverse wrinkles, or sculpt your bone structure, get in touch with us. We can help you reach your desired look with our dermal filler treatments!