Understanding Dermal Fillers: What They Are and What They Do

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to restore volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. They have become a popular choice for individuals seeking facial rejuvenation but either are not ready or do not have time to undergo surgery. The primary goals of dermal fillers are to address signs of aging, to enhance natural features, and to re-contour parts of the face.

Types of Dermal Fillers

Several types of dermal fillers are available, each designed to target specific areas and concerns:

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers:

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps maintain moisture and elasticity. HA fillers are used to add volume to lips, smooth nasolabial folds (smile lines), and reduce under-eye hollows. There are many popular HA fillers on the market today, including the whole Juvederm collection of fillers, the RHA collection, The Revanesse Versa collection, and the Restylane collection.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA):

CaHA fillers, such as Radiesse, are another option. These fillers are unique in that they may provide longer lasting results due to their calcium based makeup and collagen stimulation properties.

Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA):

Sculptra is a product made up of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) that gradually restores volume by stimulating collagen production. The treatment takes effect over the course of months and provides very natural, subtle results. Sculptra is commonly used for facial volume loss, so patients experiencing gauntness have great results from this treatment.

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA):

Bellafill is an example of a PMMA filler that offers somewhat-permanent results. It contains tiny microspheres that remain under the skin, providing structural support. Many aesthetic providers do not employ PMMA in their practice due to the inability to reverse its effects should a complication occur.

What Dermal Fillers Accomplish

Dermal fillers offer a wide range of aesthetic benefits:

• Restore facial volume that has been lost over time

• Smooth wrinkles and fine lines in the face/body

• Enhance natural facial contours in patients who are not yet experiencing signs of aging

• Improve skin texture

• Minimize scars

Dermal Filler Pricing

The cost of dermal fillers can vary based on factors such as the type of filler used, the area being treated, the provider's expertise, and the geographic location of the clinic. FreshRx is located in Maryland, where the average price for dermal fillers is typically in the range of $500 to $1,200 per syringe. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs for popular fillers:

• Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (Juvederm, Restylane): $500 to $800 per syringe

• Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse): $600 to $900 per syringe

• Poly-L-Lactic Acid (Sculptra): $700 to $1,000 per vial

• Polymethylmethacrylate (Bellafill): $800 to $1,200 per syringe

The number of syringes needed varies depending on the area being treated and the desired results. It is essential to consult with a qualified provider who can recommend the appropriate type and amount of filler for your specific needs. Ellen Lancaster, our Nurse Practitioner at FreshRx, has seven years of experience treating patients with dermal filler. She even holds training positions to teach other injectors how to inject dermal fillers skillfully.

Average Number of Fillers Per Office Visit

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average number of syringes used per dermal filler treatment in the United States varies based on the treatment area and individual goals. Typically, patients receive between 1 to 3 syringes per office visit. For example:

• Lips: 1 - 2 syringes

• Nasolabial Folds (also known as nasal folds or smile lines): 1 - 2 syringes

• Cheeks: 1 to 3 syringes

• Under-Eye Hollows: 1 syringe

• Jaw Contour: 3-7 syringes

• Hand Rejuvenation: 2-5 syringes

Patients may require additional syringes for more comprehensive treatments or for addressing multiple areas in one session. It is important to note that the effects of dermal fillers are not permanent! The duration of a filler treatment depends on the type of filler used, the number of fillers used, the patient's individual's metabolism, the patient's daily habits (such as smoking/drinking/typical sun exposure), and even more factors!

Dermal fillers have revolutionized the field of cosmetic dermatology, offering a non-surgical solution for those seeking to enhance their appearance and combat signs of aging. With various types of fillers available, individuals can achieve natural-looking results tailored to their unique facial features and aesthetic goals. If you are considering a dermal filler treatment and you are in the state of Maryland, reach out to us at FreshRx. We'd love to conduct a personalized consult so you can get all of your questions answered and set yourself up for absolute best filler results!