Biostimulators & Semi-permanent Fillers
The natural volume and elasticity in our tissues diminish slowly with age. Collagen production decreases, subcutaneous fat stores disperse, and our skin loses the bounce it once had. Cosmetic injectable fillers are designed to restore lost volume, provide natural lift, and support our tissues while avoiding invasive procedures. The majority of fillers used for this purpose are made of hyaluronic acid, but there is a subset of specialized products that are not. This group of products is made of different and unique ingredients that stimulate the body’s own natural collagen production processes. Over time, they rejuvenate our collagen and deep support structure of the skin.
The treatment itself takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the specific area being treated. During the treatment, we discuss your goals and options for achieving those goals. After finalizing a plan together, we will apply a numbing cream for comfort. These products are injected through tiny needles or cannulas slowly and precisely. Sometimes a series of treatments are necessary to achieve optimal results. Take a look at our PREPARE page for what to expect and avoid before your treatment.
In addition to facial rejuvenation, these products provide us with options for other treatments that are not ideal with HA fillers. The non-surgical butt lift and necklace line treatment utilize these products. Deep acne scars and medication-induced facial fat loss also use these products.
Results
This group of fillers has many uses, the results vary depending on the treatment. Generally, there is an immediate result that diminishes as collagen stimulation is occurring. This process takes weeks to months to occur. It is important to remember that multiple treatments are often necessary for optimal collagen stimulation.
Side Effects & Recovery
The most common side effects include bruising and swelling. Generally, the swelling is mild and resolves in about 1 week. As these products are injected with needles or cannulas, there is always a risk for bruising. It is important to plan your appointment accordingly. The bruising varies from none or mild to concealer necessary but generally resolves in about 1 week. There are a few other rare side effects that we will discuss in-depth during your consultation. We ask that our patients return after about 2 weeks for a follow-up evaluation.
BELLAFILL®
Bellafill is a unique dermal filler manufactured by Suneva Medical and was approved by the FDA in 2015. It is made of polymethyl methacrylate microspheres (PMMA) suspended in a collagen gel. This unique composition leads to an immediate improvement and stimulation of collagen that builds a longer-term scaffolding for up to 5 years. It was approved for use in the nasolabial folds and certain types of acne scars.
RADIESSE®
Radiesse and Radiesse (+) are unique products composed of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHa) microspheres in a sodium carboxymethylcellulose gel. They are manufactured by Merz Aesthetics and were initially FDA approved in 2006. This unique composition produces an immediate result as well as stimulates neocollagenesis, the development of long-lasting collagen. The results have been proven to last 1 year, but often lasts much longer. It is currently FDA approved for use in the nasolabial folds and the back of the hands.
SCULPTRA®
Sculptra is a unique product made of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a collagen stimulator. The product is manufactured by Galderma, the makers of Dysport. After injection, the PLLA is absorbed and helps to restore the deep structure of the skin by revitalizing collagen production. A series of treatments are required for optimal results. This product was FDA approved in 2004 for the nasolabial folds but has been used off label for other treatments from non-surgical butt lifts to neck and décolletage skin rejuvenation. Galderma has a great rewards program for users called Aspire Rewards. Sign up before your appointment and earn discounts on your treatment!
