Top 10 Myths About Facial Fillers
Myth #1 – It won’t look natural
Fillers are products used to replace the volume we lose in our faces as we age. If done carefully and with a good aesthetic sense, you will look rejuvenated and natural.
Certainly, if too much filler is placed, or it is placed into the wrong location, it can look unnatural. For best results, we recommend seeking out a specialist who has expertise in using fillers in the face.
Myth #2 – It doesn’t work/I can’t tell the difference
While the results can be subtle, there are real results. If you are on a tight budget, it’s best to focus on one area in particular, rather than putting a small amount of filler in several areas.
Myth #3 – If I don’t like it, I’ll be stuck with it
Most filler products today are hyaluronic acid products (Juvederm®, Voluma®, Restylane®, Belotero®). These can be reversed, usually within several days, by injecting a product called hyaluronidase into the filled areas if necessary.
Myth # 4 – There will be a lot of bruising or down time
Much of the bruising and swelling that can occur with filler injections, particularly around the eyes or mouth, can be reduced by using cool compresses, arnica montana, and elevating the head of the bed.
Most of the time, bruising and/or swelling can be concealed with make-up and is not very noticeable. As a safeguard against the occasions when it is more noticeable, we recommend that you don’t have your filler treatments performed within a week to 10 days of a major event such as a wedding.
Myth # 5 – It will be painful
Many filler products are packaged with numbing solution mixed into them. Topical numbing ointments provide additional relief. Additionally, micro-cannulas which are blunt tipped – not sharp, like needles, typically have minimal discomfort. Facial Fillers Overview
Myth # 6 – I have to get it done frequently / too much maintenance
While it’s true that many fillers need to be repeated, the frequency of maintenance isn’t as long as most people think. It depends on such factors as the filler being used, where it is placed, and the activity level of the person receiving the filler. Consequently, fillers may only need to be repeated every 6-8 months or as infrequently as once every 2 years depending on the above factors.
Myth # 7 – Fillers can replace a surgical facelift – results will be the same
While fillers add volume and can give the appearance of “looking lifted,” they cannot ever replace the results of surgery, which lifts and tightens the deeper tissues while removing excess and sagging skin. Often, a combination of surgery plus volume replacement with filler will provide optimal rejuvenation results.
Myth #8 – I should shop around for the cheapest price
What’s most important regarding fillers is not the type of filler used. Rather, it is the skill, talent, aesthetic sense, and expertise of the practitioner administering the filler. The process is similar to commissioning a beautiful piece of art. The type of paint or clay being used is secondary. What’s paramount is the skill and vision of the artist.
Myth #9 – My dentist/PCP/OBGYN does fillers – I will just get them to do it
There are many physicians, nurses, and dentists that will offer fillers to their patients as a source of extra income. Often, they have little training, sometimes just having taken a weekend course. It’s best to seek a specialist who has expertise in facial aesthetics and years of training when it comes to performing these procedures.
Myth # 10 – Fillers can be placed anywhere – they are all the same
Not all fillers are the same, nor can they be placed in any location. Certain fillers should be avoided around the eyes and lips. Juvederm®, for example, attracts water, and therefore is not ideal to use close to the eyes where the skin is thin.