Facial Fillers
Are you looking to improve or fill in a facial fold, crease or acne scar? Then a soft tissue filler might be the solution you are looking for. Fillers are products that are injected into the deeper layers of the skin to plump and fill tissue defects. But the field of facial fillers has change dramatically since the introduction of collagen several years ago. There are so many new products available, all will differing properties, that most patients feel very confused. So which one is right for you? Dr. Kwan injects many different fillers and will help you select the best choice for your needs.
Cosmoderm and Cosmoplast
Cosmoderm and Cosmoplast are injectable human forms of collagen. Cosmoderm is the thinner form used for fine lines, and Cosmoplast is the thicker form used for deeper creases. Since it is human collagen (derived from sterile tissue culture) there is no need for skin testing, unlike the earlier cow-derived versions. It is usually injected in the creases and folds around the mouth, as well as the lip border, but can also be used to fill in acne scars. It is formulated with lidocaine, so patients numb while it is injected. It typically lasts anywhere from 2 to 6 months, depending on where it is injected. Side effects are bruising and possible lumpiness, but since there is minimal swelling it is perfect for people who cannot afford any downtime.
Restylane, Perlane, and Juvederm
Restylane, Perlane and Juvederm are all products containing hyaluronic acid. The compound hyaluronic acid is an inert substance that is naturally occurring in the body. These fillers are typically used around the mouth and lip border. Numbing either by topical cream or injection is required so the treatment is as comfortable as possible. The end result is soft and natural looking smoothness to the skin. It lasts approximately 3 to 9 months depending on the area that is treated. Bruising, swelling and lumpiness are the most common side effects.
Radiesse
Radiesse is comprised calcium hydroxyapatite, which is a bone component. However, even though it is a bone component it stays supple when injected in soft tissue. It is most commonly injected into the nasolabial creases but works very well to define and enhance the cheeks for facial contouring and volume correction. Results tend to last for 9 to 15 months. There is possible bruising, swelling and lumpiness.
Sculptra
Sculptra contain poly-L-lactic acid, which is used in absorbable suture material. It is most often used for cheek augmentation, facial contouring and volume restoration. However unlike the majority of fillers, it takes a series of treatments to achieve appropriate correction. Injections are typically done monthly for 2 to 5 treatments depending on the level of correction desired. Noticeable improvent does not develop until after the second treatment since Sculptra stimulates your own body to form new collagen. This leads to fairly long lasting correction of up to 2 ½ years. Swelling and bruising are the most common side effects.
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