We see it in the tabloids all the time. A star has appeared out and about somewhere with a puffy looking face and that mouth shape we’ve come to know as “duck lips” and it all comes down to a little too much of a good thing: injectable fillers. This appearance has become so ubiquitous it’s easy to understand why some people assume that facial fillers are always obvious, always overdone, and always unnatural looking, but the truth is you really only notice cosmetic procedures when they’re poorly executed. When used well, dermal fillers can have an amazing rejuvenating effect on the face that’s so subtle you look like you’re well-rested—not like you’ve had an appointment at our clinic.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) injectable fillers have long been a popular choice for those who want a more refreshed and rejuvenated appearance. As we age, we begin to lose volume in the face, which can lead to fine lines and wrinkles, but can also change the contours of our cheeks, lips, chin, and more. What’s great about HA is that it’s derived from a sugar that naturally occurs in the body and helps maintain volume and elasticity in the skin. The injected gel acts like a sort of cushion in the tissues to help plump up volume and improve elasticity. HA also draws water to itself from the body, bringing hydration closer to the surface of the skin to help add to that fresh, supple look (that’s why it’s also a pretty popular ingredient in a lot of moisturizing skin care). Since it’s naturally occurring, the body is able to process it easily and the effects subside after about one year.
One particular area of concern for a lot of people as they age are the lines around the mouth, known as the nasolabial folds. Sometimes called laugh lines or smile lines, this particular area can be the site of deep lines that remain even when you’re not smiling or laughing. While skincare can help reduce the look of fine wrinkles, it just doesn’t stand a chance against these deeper creases. Luckily we have some special formulations of HA dermal fillers that are perfect for smoothing out these areas. They’re designed to cause minimal swelling after injection and are available with the addition of the mild local anaesthetic, lidocaine, which makes for a more comfortable injection experience for our patients. Makes you look great and is designed to improve your comfort and care? If you’ve read our blog or watched our videos, you know those goals are super important to us.
Did we answer all your questions? Our goal is to ensure you have the best information possible to make your decision. If you still have questions, we’re here to help.