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Injectable Fillers FAQs

What are injectable fillers?
Injectable fillers are three-dimensional volume fillers which can be injected into areas of the skin to reduce the appears of lines, wrinkles, grooves and scars in order to provide a smoother, more youthful appearance. They can plump creased and sunken facial areas and add fullness to the lips and cheek area. They may also be used for the cheek grooves, ear lobes, mouth area, undereye area, eyebrow area, neck and other areas. There are both temporary and permanent fillers.

What are temporary injectable fillers?
There are many types of temporary injectable fillers. Hyaluronic acid gel (known as Restylane and Hylaform) is commonly used. This is a non-protein product that comes in three types of gel according to the dept of the injection.

How long do hyaluronic acid injections last?
For many patients, though not all of them, hyaluronic acid injections can last up to six months.

What are permanent injectable fillers?
There are several different types of permanent injectable fillers. A commonly used one is a permanent injectable that is comprised of permanent micro spheres or crystals that are floating in a collagen or hyaluronic acid gel matrix. This matrix transports the beads to the treated area. Once injected, the matrix transport is replaced by the patient's own collagen. Injections may need to be repeated several times before the desired result is achieved. Though permanent, further injections may be needed due to continued aging.

Are there any limitations to what injectable fillers can achieve?
Severe surface wrinkles on the face may be better treated with other procedures, such as a chemical peel, dermabrasion in Toronto or laser treatments. Cosmetic procedures like a facelift or browlift may more effectively treat deep folds in the face or brow.

What can I expect during consultation for injectable fillers?
During a consultation, your surgeon will examine your face and take a thorough medical history. He or she will discuss your goals, your options, and all aspects of the procedure.

Where can injectable filler procedures be performed?
Injectable fillers are usually performed in a surgeon's office. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 62% of cosmetic surgery procedures performed by their member doctors in 2004 took place in an office, 21% in a hospital, and 17% in a free-standing ambulatory surgical facility.

Is anesthesia used with injectable fillers?
A topical or local anesthetic may be used with injectable fillers. Some patients may also receive a nerve block.

How is the actual injectable filler procedure performed?
A topical anesthetic is first applied to the area being treated. The filler is then injected beneath the skin. Many forms of injectable fillers require an additional or repeat treatments.

Is the procedure painful?
Procedures with injectable fillers typically involve minimal discomfort.

What is the recovery like after receiving injectable fillers?
Some bruising, swelling and redness can occur, most of which typically subsides after a day or two.

How much time will I need to take off from work after receiving injectable fillers?
Injectable fillers typically involve little downtime. Depending on the particular filler being used, many patients find that they can immediately return to their normal activities, though makeup may not to be worn.

What are the risks or complications of injectable fillers?
Depending on the type of filler, allergic reactions can occur. There are generally very few side effects. Overfilling of hyaluronic acid can result in visible bumps or irregularities.

How much do injectable fillers cost?
Procedural costs will vary according to the particular filler used. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average surgeon/physician fee charged by their member doctors in 2004 for hyaluronic acid injections was $539.

Does insurance cover the cost of injectable fillers?
Insurance typically does not cover procedures performed solely for cosmetic purposes. Coverage may be available to some degree for procedures performed to correct or improve facial scars or other deformities resulting from injury. Be sure to check with your own insurance carrier regarding the degree and/or availability of coverage.

Is it possible to get financing for injectable fillers?
Financing is available for facial plastic surgery procedures. Your plastic surgeon should be able to provide you with further information about financing.

What should I look for in a surgeon to perform an injectable filler procedure?
It's important that you do your homework and carefully choose the surgeon to perform your procedure. First, make sure that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS). This ensures that they've completed the proper training to safely conduct your procedure according ABPS standards. You can visit the ABPS's website at www.plasticsurgery.org to locate a certified plastic surgeon in your area. You should also ask any potential surgeon the following questions:

• How many injectable filler procedures has the surgeon performed?
• Where and how will the procedure be performed?
• What are the risks of your particular procedure?

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