28 October 2021

Dermal Fillers – Something to Smile About

In our youth, our lips are naturally plumped with collagen, but we notice fine lines around our mouth and less volume in our lips as we get older. While the rich lip colors that are out this season beg to be painted on full lips, we are not looking to become famous for our lip injections, i.e., Kylie Jenner. So, this month, we ask Sharon, owner of Embody MedSpa, to tackle the most common questions about dermal fillers.

Q: Who are dermal fillers for?

A: Dermal fillers are for anyone who would like more fullness in their lips and for people who have been living with fine lines around their mouth, eyes, or forehead. Instead of purchasing every lip plumping gloss on the market or drawing outside the natural lines of your lip with lipliner, fillers will create a full, soft, natural-looking lip. They will also restore the natural contours of the face that keep us looking young and healthy. 

Q: Which injectable should I choose?

A: At Embody, we offer the entire collection of FDA-approved injectable Juvéderm Fillers.  These fillers ensure a natural look while restoring volume, treating fine lines, and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and folds. Juvéderm allows for soft fullness without puffiness.

Q: What are they made of?

The active ingredient in Juvéderm is hyaluronic acid. This sugar,found naturally in the body, adds temporary volume and definition when injected into lips.  It is also FDA cleared for use in the cheek, chin, jawline, and perioral area to smooth lines and restore contours. The plumping effect of hyaluronic acid serums on fine lines and wrinkles are well known, and the injections work similarly; the hyaluronic acid attracts water and hydrates the skin while volumizing.

Q: Will it hurt?

A: Juvéderm mixes pain-reducing lidocaine into the formula, and with each injection, you can expect an increased level of temporary numbness. The start of the procedure may be mildly uncomfortable; however, as it continues, you may feel pressure but very little pain. Our nurses are extensively trained in the cannula technique which minimizes pain and bruising.

Q: What is the procedure like?

A: Dermal fillers appointments are approximately 30-45 minutes, including the consultation so it’s something you could even do on your lunch break.  Our highly skilled nurse injectors will start with a consultation to understand the client’s specific goals and then customize a treatment plan that will help you achieve your goals. The nurse will mark the areas to be treated and then inject Juvéderm into the target area. She will lightly massage the area to ensure even distribution and reduce the chance of swelling.

Q: Are there side effects?

A: I get questions about side effects a lot; with this treatment, you can expect mild swelling and bruising that could last anywhere from 24 to 72 hours. The nurse will go over your post care with you and make sure you have a way to get in contact with her in case you have any questions or concerns. At first, you may feel some firmness around the targeted areas; however, that will be naturally metabolized within a day or two.

Q: How long do they last?

A: Dermal fillers are not permanent. I wish I could say they were, but they fade because they contain naturally occurring enzymes, such as hyaluronic acid, so your body will metabolize them over time. The speed of your metabolism will significantly affect how long your treatment results last; fillers tend to last longer in areas with less movement, but I bet your full lips will have you smiling a lot, so expect a touch-up every eight to ten months. Fillers in the cheek area usually last 1-2 years.

Dermal fillers are a safe, non-invasive way to minimize fine lines around your cheeks and eyes and volumize your lips. Come see us at Embody MedSpa; we’ll answer your questions about dermal fillers and give you the full pout you desire. Then, go out and buy that bright red lipstick!