Dermal fillers have revolutionized plastic surgery. You can now achieve noticeable results in less than an hour with a few carefully chosen injections. Without the fear and exorbitant cost of surgery, dermal fillers have made cosmetic alterations more accessible in our society. So let’s look at some of the most popular dermal fillers.
Most Popular Dermal Fillers
Given the popularity of fillers, it isn’t surprising that scientists have created so many different formulations to suit specific applications. The only downside is that your options can feel a bit overwhelming. To help with that, we have put together this short guide detailing what the most popular dermal fillers are so you have a place to start when you meet with your plastic surgeon in Los Angeles.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite
Calcium hydroxylapatite naturally occurs in your bones, making it highly compatible with your natural anatomy. When used as a dermal filler, calcium hydroxylapatite comes synthetically produced. And no animal products find use in the process.
Calcium hydroxylapatite works as the active ingredient in a brand-name dermal filler known as Radiesse. This product makes up for volume loss in your skin. Aging and chronic disease can both cause loss of volume, creating wrinkles and sagging. Radiesse replaces that volume, smoothing your skin.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid exists as another natural compound found in your body. As a result, allergic reactions practically turn out nonexistent. In fact, if you look at some of your favorite skincare products, you will likely find hyaluronic acid in at least one of them.
The popularity of hyaluronic acid in skincare is a result of its hydrophilic properties. Essentially, this compound draws water towards it, helping to plump and hydrate skin. Juvéderm is one of the most common brand name dermal fillers to use hyaluronic acid, but eight other brands also use this compound.
If you’re interested in hyaluronic acid dermal fillers in Beverly Hills, your board-certified surgeon can talk you through the different products, their concentrations, and particular usage.
Polyalkylimide
This semi-permanent dermal filler helps in situations that require a stronger solution. The fillers mentioned above typically stay reserved for mild to moderate wrinkles. Products using polyalkylimide, like Aquamid, treat deeper wrinkles and areas requiring a longer-lasting solution.
Polyalkylimide often finds use to enhance the cheekbones, jaw, and lips. Fortunately, this compound remains fully biocompatible and radio transparent. It can find use in larger amounts. And we can even remove it later if needed.
Polylactic Acid
Polylactic acid is the active ingredient in Sculptra. Unlike other fillers mentioned, the acid itself does not fill the skin where it is applied. Rather the role of polylactic acid is quite different. When it is injected into your skin, it stimulates local collagen production.
As a result, your skin produces your own, natural collagen to fill the area. It’s non-toxic, biodegradable, and it works particularly well around the mouth and lips. The only downside is that you won’t see your results right away, and you will likely require several treatments.
On the upside, the staggered treatments do create a gradual effect that will be less noticeable than a one-and-done procedure. These treatment types can be ideal for patients who would rather keep their cosmetic procedures to themselves.
Polymethyl-methacrylate Microspheres
Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres are used in semi-permanent fillers like Bellafill. These fillers are a bit more aggressive, so they require a practiced hand to ensure that they are not obvious to others.
With that said, a well-versed plastic surgeon can make Bellafill look seamless. Over several treatments they will build volume, creating the ideal effect. This treatment best suits deep nasolabial folds and deep scarring.
Finding the Right Filler
The best dermal filler for you will depend on your goals and the current condition of your skin. To learn more, talk to your board-certified plastic surgeon.
