The Evolution in the Use of Dermal Fillers

In this blog, I would like to discuss my personal evolution and thoughts of the use of dermal fillers.  First, we should talk about some basic points and the reasoning behind this blog.

The Basics of Dermal Fillers 

Dermal fillers have been in use for over 15 years.  Dermal fillers are products that are made to be injected in the face to add volume.   Common dermal fillers today are Juvéderm, Restylane, Perlane, and Juvéderm Voluma.  These products are composed of a naturally occurring substance in the body, called hyaluronic acid.  Each of these dermal fillers differs in their consistency and viscosity.  These differences are subtle but important in creating the best results for patients.

There are different levels of sophistication of the use of dermal fillers and they are as follows:

Simplest Application: Dermal Fillers as a Crayon

This may seem like a ridiculous title, but this is what I consider the most basic level of the use of dermal fillers.  A crayon is used to color in a shape or line.  Dermal fillers can be used in this fashion.  Some injectors can see a line and inject underneath the line to “fill” the line.  This is a simplest and unartistic use of injectable fillers.  This can be accomplished by the most untrained and basic injectors.  A common example of this level of injection skill is to fill the smile lines or otherwise known as nasolabial folds.

Fillers in a Three Dimensional Fashion:  Dermal Fillers to Lift the Face

As the face ages, it loses both fat and bone.  The loss of this volume can cause sagging of the facial structures and soft tissues.  The face is composed of individual fat compartments.  A skilled injector can evaluate the face and identify which compartments have lost or lack volume.  I believe an injector should strive to inject these compartments in a logical and systematic fashion.  I believe this technique will allow for natural results while limiting risks.

Sophistication in the Use of Facial Dermal Fillers: Dermal Fillers to Sculpt the Face

The face changes as we age.  The face has ideal angles and proportions that I review with my patients during their consultation.  With the use of dermal fillers, we can re-create more favorable angles and proportions of the face.  This will decrease the shadows on the face and create a more reflective face.  The more light the face reflects, the healthier and more awake one appears.  Examples of sculpting with dermal fillers are:

1. A uniform and defined cheek with grooves or depressions
2. A long and elegant uninterrupted jawline
3. A top heavy facial structure-  The face should appear wider and have more volume above the nose and begin to narrow and slender below that point
4. A smooth transition from the temple to the cheekbone
5. Improved angulation and definition in the face

In my practice in Charlotte, I strive to use fillers in all aspects as previously described.  In viewing the face in multiple three dimensional angles, I am able to sculpt the face to improve facial balance and harmony through the addition of volume.   In order to be able to achieve this result, one must be able to understand complex facial proportion and have the ability to manipulate them.  This is the challenging and artistic aspect of facial dermal fillers.  This is also the main reason why it is important to choose your injector wisely.  If an injector is unable to understand or see these concepts he/she will be unable to achieve high -level results.

As a facial plastic surgeon, I love using injectable fillers to reshape the face.  I find the process rewarding to both my patients and myself.   My patients actively take part in the injection process as they are constantly viewing the results as we progress.  In this manner, they are able to participate to ensure they get the desired result.

If you are interested in consult for facial dermal fillers in Charlotte, please call (704) 842-3644 or fill out the online contact form.