Injectable filler is a soft tissue filler which is injected into the skin to help fill in facial wrinkles leading to smoother appearance. Fillers can also be used as “volumizers”, plumping and lifting cheeks, chins, jawlines and temples; filling out thin lips and plumping sagging hands.
Most of these fillers are temporary because they are ultimately absorbed by the body. The effect lasts for about six months to two years. The procedure is fast and easy. But all fillers have the risk of allergic reactions and formation of tiny bumps under the skin. Sometimes, a bluish discoloration known as Tyndall effect occurs. Rarely skin necrosis may occur if filler is not used properly. There have also been a few reported cases of blindness and nerve paralysis. Typically, the fillers that last longer have the more propensity to cause side effects.
Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most popular fillers. Side effects are rare but may include redness, swelling and bruising at the injection site. The filler may also show up under the skin as tiny bumps which usually improves over the time. The result lasts from six months to two years.
Hyaluronic acid fillers include
These are lab made substances that are not related to anything found naturally. The benefits include a longer-lasting effect. At the same time these are more likely to cause side effects including redness, swelling or bruising at the site of injection and nodules or bumps under the skin. It may also cause disfigurement.
Synthetic fillers include
These fillers were initially made from bovine collagen. Because of animal source they had a higher rate of allergic reactions and required allergy testing beforehand. Although it worked well and offered a natural looking fill, the results didn’t last long. New ways of processing the collagen have helped lower the risk. Moreover, new forms of synthetic collagens are making these injections safer.
Collagen fillers include
Fat is the most commonly used substance as autologous filler. Your own fat is surgically removed from your stomach, thighs or buttocks, processed and then injected. Result can be semi permanent.
Platelet rich plasma injections (Vampire lift) are another form of autologous filler or volumizer. Blood is withdrawn from you, treated and then injected into the face. The effect can last from 12 to 18 months.