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Should I Get Fillers? – Make an Informed Decision

Medically Reviewed
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Aurora Kalmanson on
Written by Fillers Editorial Team, plastic surgery specialists.

Deciding whether to get fillers involves understanding their purpose, potential benefits, and risks. Fillers can rejuvenate the face by targeting lines, wrinkles, and volume loss, offering a non-surgical solution for enhancing facial features like cheekbones and jawline.

Ideal candidates are those experiencing age-related changes or seeking aesthetic improvements. However, they’re not suitable for everyone, and there are important considerations regarding safety, longevity, and expectations. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision about dermal fillers.

Who Should Consider Fillers

Fillers can be an excellent option for individuals looking to address signs of aging or enhance their facial features without undergoing invasive surgery.

Aesthetic Goals and Facial Areas to Target

Enhancing Cheekbones and Jawline: For those seeking to define or restore their facial structure, fillers can be a powerful tool. Enhancing the cheekbones can create a more youthful and lifted appearance, countering the natural loss of volume that occurs with age. Strategic placement of fillers can accentuate the cheekbones, providing a subtle lift that rejuvenates the entire face.

Similarly, defining the jawline with fillers can lead to a more contoured profile. This is particularly appealing for individuals whose jawline has softened over time or for those who naturally have less definition in this area. Fillers can be used to create a more pronounced jawline, resulting in a balanced and aesthetically pleasing facial silhouette.

Both of these enhancements require a skilled practitioner who understands facial anatomy and can adapt the treatment to the individual’s unique features and goals. The results are immediate, with minimal recovery time, making fillers a convenient option for those looking to enhance their facial structure.

Smoothing Nasolabial Folds and Marionette Lines: Nasolabial folds and marionette lines are common signs of aging that appear around the mouth and chin. Nasolabial folds, running from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth, deepen with time, while marionette lines, which extend from the corners of the mouth down to the chin, can create a downturned expression. Fillers can be used to smooth these areas, softening the appearance of these lines and restoring a more youthful and cheerful facial expression.

The procedure involves injecting fillers into the targeted creases to add volume and diminish the depth of the folds. The choice of filler material and the specific technique used will depend on the individual’s skin type and the extent of the lines. The results are a smoother, more refreshed look that can last several months to over a year, depending on the type of filler used.

Volumizing Lips and Camouflaging Undereye Hollows: Full, well-defined lips and bright, alert eyes are hallmarks of youth and beauty. Dermal fillers offer a solution for those looking to enhance their lip volume or reduce the appearance of undereye hollows. Lip augmentation with fillers can create fuller lips, correct asymmetries, and define the lip border for a more pronounced cupid’s bow.

For the undereye area, fillers can be carefully placed to fill in hollows and reduce the shadowing that contributes to a tired appearance. This treatment requires precision, as the undereye skin is delicate and the area is sensitive. When done correctly, the result is a more rested and rejuvenated look, with reduced dark circles and a smoother transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek.

Age-Related Changes and Genetic Considerations

Addressing Volume Loss Due to Aging: As we age, our faces naturally lose subcutaneous fat, leading to a decrease in facial volume and a more hollowed appearance. Dermal fillers can effectively address this volume loss by restoring fullness to areas such as the cheeks, temples, and around the mouth. This not only improves facial contours but also helps to lift and tighten the skin, reducing the sagging that often accompanies aging.

The strategic placement of fillers can have a lifting effect, counteracting gravity’s toll and providing a more youthful profile. With a variety of fillers available, treatments can be customized to meet the unique needs of each individual, taking into account the degree of volume loss and the desired outcome.

Improving Weak Bone Structure from Genetics: Not all facial structure concerns are due to aging; genetics also play a significant role in determining our bone structure. Individuals with naturally weak or less defined facial bones may benefit from dermal fillers to enhance their features, such as the chin, jawline, or cheekbones. Fillers can provide the appearance of a stronger bone structure and a more balanced facial shape.

This non-surgical approach to improving facial contours is particularly appealing to those who wish to avoid the risks and downtime associated with surgical procedures. By carefully selecting the appropriate type and amount of filler, practitioners can create subtle yet impactful changes that enhance the natural beauty of the individual’s face.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to wait before considering fillers?

You can consider fillers at any time you start noticing signs of aging or volume loss that you wish to correct. It's best to consult with a qualified practitioner to discuss your goals and any potential concerns.

How often will I need to get fillers to maintain the results?

The frequency of maintenance treatments varies depending on the type of filler used and how your body metabolizes it, but generally, treatments are needed every 6 to 18 months.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for fillers?

A good candidate for fillers is someone with realistic expectations who wants to address concerns like wrinkles, volume loss, or enhancing facial features. A consultation with a practitioner can determine your suitability.

Are there any activities or medications I should avoid before getting fillers?

Avoid blood-thinning medications, alcohol, and strenuous exercise before getting fillers to reduce the risk of bruising and swelling.

Can I combine fillers with other cosmetic procedures?

Yes, fillers can be combined with other cosmetic procedures, but it's important to discuss your treatment plan with a qualified practitioner.

How do I maintain the results of my fillers?

Maintain the results of your fillers with regular follow-up treatments as recommended by your practitioner and by following good skincare practices.

Conclusion

Dermal fillers offer a versatile solution for those looking to enhance their appearance, whether it's smoothing wrinkles, restoring volume, or refining facial contours. Understanding the types of fillers, their longevity, and the importance of choosing a qualified practitioner are crucial for achieving safe and desirable outcomes. While fillers are not for everyone, they can provide significant aesthetic improvements for suitable candidates. Always consider the potential risks and maintain realistic expectations to ensure satisfaction with your filler treatments.

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References:

Wongprasert, P., Dreiss, C. A., & Murray, G. (2022). Evaluating hyaluronic acid dermal fillers: A critique of current characterization methods.

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/dth.15453

Dr. Aurora Kalmanson

Always Consult a Medical Specialist

The information provided in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as personalized medical advice. It's crucial to understand that while we are medical professionals, the insights and advice we provide are based on general research and studies. They are not tailored to individual health needs or conditions. Thus, it is essential to consult directly with a healthcare provider who can offer personalized medical advice relevant to your specific situation.