NON-FAT TISSUE FILLERS

One of the most exciting new treatment options in plastic surgery is the use of “tissue fillers” to enhance and “plump up” various areas of the face. Injectable fillers can improve the appearance of thin lips and fill in facial creases and wrinkles. The result is a smoother, fuller, and more youthful effect.

The most common areas requested for tissue filler treatments are: the lips, the nasolabial (cheek) folds, and depressions, folds and lines around the mouth.

Although it varies from patient to patient, the beneficial effects of tissue fillers usually last 8-10 months, and there is increasing research data that suggests that the placement of tissue fillers permanently stimulates collagen formation in the area(s) treated.

Injectable tissue fillers are substances that enhance the fullness of the soft tissues of the face. Some tissue fillers are based on substances naturally found within the body [which are the kind of fillers we prefer to use becuase they feel soft and natural], whereas other substances are based on synthetic materials [which we do not like to use becuase they often feel firm and "lumpy"].

Skin tests are not required for any of the tissue filler materials that we use in our office.

TISSUE FILLERS BASED ON NATURAL SUBSTANCES

Tissue fillers based on natural substances feel natural and are easy to perform. Each injection only takes a few moments per site. Following injection ice packs to the skin alleviate any temporary discomfort. An improvement is apparent almost immediately, although minor swelling will be present for 24-48 hours.  Juvederm is the best filler on the market today. It is based on the hyaluronic acid molecule which is found naturally within the body. Juvederm is very popular because:  (1) it is very soft and not easily felt within the tissues, and (2) it seems to last longer than any of the other fillers on the market.

TISSUE FILLERS BASED ON FAT

Arguably the most “natural” tissue filler is a patient’s own fat. Fat is usually harvested by liposuction from the abdomen, and then reinjected back into the desired location. The latest technology of fat injection involves the use of very tiny needles, both for gathering the fat as well as for re-injecting the fat. This process is termed “micro fact injections.” The advantage of this method is the dramatic increase in the success of the grafts. Slight over-correction is necessary as some of the injected fat will be absorbed.  The greatest advantages of fat injections is the easy accessibility of fat material and the natural softness in the way it feels.