Facial Fillers

Facial fillers have revolutionized cosmetic dermatology by providing quick, painless, and immediate facial rejuvenation with natural-looking, long-lasting results. In the past, achieving facial rejuvenation required invasive plastic surgery, which involved lengthy recovery times and potential side effects. Today, facial fillers are among the most popular cosmetic treatments worldwide, allowing patients to avoid invasive surgery in favor of the safety and convenience of non-invasive injectables. Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in New York City, frequently incorporates dermal fillers into her patients’ treatment plans for lasting facial rejuvenation.

Facial fillers are unmatched in their ability to smooth fine lines and deep wrinkles, restore lost facial volume, enhance key facial features, and create dynamic facial contours. Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero quickly restore volume to the skin after a single treatment and stimulate collagen production. Biostimulating facial fillers, including Sculptra, Radiesse, and Bellafill, encourage the body to generate new collagen, gradually increasing volume and smoothness over multiple treatments. Facial fillers can revitalize various areas, including the cheeks, chin, nasolabial folds, oral commissures, lips, temples, jawline, and tear troughs (undereye hollows). With minimal downtime or side effects and long-lasting results, it’s no wonder patients choose facial fillers for their cosmetic rejuvenation. Given the many types of fillers available, the best way to determine which are right for you is to consult with an expert injector like Dr. Michele Green in NYC.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally recognized, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning men and women with top non-invasive cosmetic treatments, including injectable fillers. She was among the first dermatologists in New York to use popular dermal fillers like Restylane and Juvederm for facial rejuvenation. Dr. Green is consistently recognized by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times as one of NYC’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and her expertise. She takes a holistic approach and follows a less-is-more philosophy in facial rejuvenation, tailoring each patient’s treatment plan to include a mix of in-office procedures and specially formulated skincare products that address their specific skin concerns and aesthetic goals. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to achieve and maintain a natural-looking, long-lasting, more youthful appearance.

20-29 year old female, Sculptra – 3 months

What are facial fillers?

Facial fillers, also known as soft-tissue or dermal fillers, are cosmetic products injected into the soft tissue to restore volume, provide an anti-aging effect, shape contours, or enhance facial features. Whether a patient wants to plump thin lips, reduce smile lines or nasolabial folds, treat acne scars, or achieve a more youthful cheek or defined jawline, dermal fillers can help. These fillers are considered a non-invasive cosmetic treatment—meaning there’s no downtime, unlike traditional plastic surgery. Patients appreciate that they can easily schedule their treatments and look naturally refreshed and youthful in a short time. Facial fillers come in many formulations, allowing expert cosmetic dermatologists like Dr. Michele Green in NYC to create a treatment plan that best addresses specific cosmetic needs across different facial areas. Dr. Green often combines various fillers in her patients’ plans to achieve optimal overall facial rejuvenation.

What do facial fillers do?

Facial fillers are designed to restore lost facial volume, enhance facial contours, and smooth out fine lines and deep wrinkles. As we age, the production of collagen and elastin decreases—two proteins that provide skin with a supple, youthful appearance. Lower levels of collagen and elastin can lead to a loss of facial fullness and definition. Facial fillers help replace some of this lost volume, resulting in a more rejuvenated, refreshed appearance. They can also be used to reduce the visibility of acne scars or other indented scars. Additionally, patients can use facial fillers to enhance facial contours, definition, and symmetry.

How do facial fillers work?

Facial fillers are used to add volume to targeted areas, helping to reduce signs of aging and improve contour and definition. How a dermal filler works depends on the type selected. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero provide immediate volume restoration. In contrast, biostimulating fillers such as Sculptra, Radiesse, and Bellafill stimulate the body’s natural collagen production for gradual, natural-looking results. When you consult with expert cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green, she will help you choose the dermal filler treatments that best suit your personal concerns and facial structure.

What are facial fillers made of?

Some of the most popular fillers, including Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero, are made of hyaluronic acid to stimulate collagen production and increase skin hydration. Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of the skin that provides suppleness and a youthful appearance, and it naturally participates in these processes within the body. Because of its ability to support the body’s natural rejuvenation, hyaluronic acid has become a preferred choice for soft-tissue and wrinkle fillers. Recent advances in HA filler formulations allow HA molecules to cross-link with skin cells, resulting in remarkably natural-looking results.

Many patients also prefer bio-stimulating fillers such as Sculptra, Bellafill, and Radiesse because they promote collagen production. Sculptra is made of poly-L-lactic acid, Radiesse contains calcium hydroxylapatite, and Bellafill is composed of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). Once injected, these substances activate collagenase activity or encourage new collagen growth to restore volume and create a more youthful, refreshed appearance. Usually, a series of treatments is required initially to achieve the best results. The advantage of these bio-stimulating fillers is that collagen production continues long after the filler has dissolved.

Voluma – 3 weeks before and after

Types of injectable facial fillers

Various facial fillers are available on the market, each offering distinct benefits. Although hyaluronic acid fillers are perhaps the most well-known, poly-L-lactic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and polymethylmethacrylate are also facial fillers that can be used to achieve specific rejuvenation goals and deliver impressive results. Depending on your facial anatomy, skin concerns, and cosmetic aims, Dr. Green will help you determine which facial fillers best fit into your treatment plan. The following are some of the most popular FDA-approved cosmetic dermal fillers used.

Juvederm collection of hyaluronic acid fillers

Juvederm is a well-known line of HA fillers from the pharmaceutical giant Allergan, which also produces Botox, CoolSculpting, and many other aesthetic treatments. It offers a range of formulations and hyaluronic acid concentrations to help patients achieve a more youthful look.

• Juvederm Voluma XC has a specially designed formula created for facial contouring, lifting the cheeks, reducing facial sagging, and decreasing the appearance of jowls and hollows. Juvederm Voluma can last up to 12 months.
• Juvederm Ultra XC replenishes facial volume and smooths fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth. It is commonly used to add volume and shape to the lips and can last between nine and twelve months.
• Juvederm Ultra Plus XC addresses nasolabial folds, smile lines, and marionette lines in the mid and lower face, while also enhancing lip volume and contour. Juvederm Ultra Plus dermal filler lasts about nine to twelve months.
• Juvederm Volbella provides subtle lip enhancement and reduces the appearance of perioral lines (lines around the mouth) and “smoker’s lines” (vertical lines above the upper lip). Thanks to its gentle formulation, it can also diminish the look of tear troughs (under-eye hollows), with results lasting up to one year.
• Juvederm Vollure treats nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and smile lines, and is perfect for adding subtle volume to enhance facial contours. Vollure lasts up to 18 months.
• Juvederm Volux is FDA-approved to improve the jawline and diminish jowls. Thanks to its thicker formulation, Juvederm Volux can last from 6 to 18 months.
• SkinVive is a unique hyaluronic acid dermal filler composed of hyaluronic acid microdroplets that help the skin hold onto its natural moisture and softness. Patients report healthier, more youthful-looking skin for up to 6 months after treatment.

Botox & Voluma before and after

Restylane family of hyaluronic acid fillers

Restylane is another well-known line of HA fillers distributed by Galderma. The Restylane family offers a similar range of customized formulations to Juvederm products, though particle sizes differ between the brands. Restylane offers fillers specifically designed for rejuvenation, volume, and facial enhancement.

• Restylane-L treats moderate facial wrinkles around the mouth and tear troughs, provides subtle, natural-looking lip enhancement, and reduces acne scars. Cosmetic results typically last 6 to 9 months.
• Restylane Lyft treats deep creases and wrinkles, corrects age-related volume loss in the midface, and restores a more youthful appearance to the hands. Restylane Lyft lasts about nine to twelve months.
• Restylane Contour is FDA-approved for cheek augmentation and for correcting age-related volume loss in the midface, with results lasting up to 12 months.
• Restylane Defyne and Restylane Refyne are used to treat severe to moderate smile lines and laugh lines, as well as to enhance the chin and jawline. Both facial fillers can last up to a year.
• Restylane Volyme has a soft formula that adds volume and improves the look of the cheeks, chin, and jawline. Results from Restylane Volume can last up to a year.
• Restylane Kysse uses innovative XpresHAn Technology to create fuller, more attractive lips and minimize fine lines around the mouth. Results with Restylane Kysse can last up to a year.
• Restylane Silk features small particles that help rejuvenate the lips and reduce perioral lines (fine lines around the mouth). Restylane Silk generally lasts six or more months.
• Restylane Eyelight is FDA-approved to treat the sensitive tear trough area (under-eye hollows) and reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. It can last up to eighteen months.
• Restylane SkinBoosters provide dermal hydration and enhance overall skin health through a series of microinjections. The treatment involves multiple sessions spaced one month apart, after which patients can return biannually to maintain and improve the results.

Belotero hyaluronic acid filler

Belotero is a hyaluronic acid facial filler made by Merz. With small HA particles, Belotero blends seamlessly into the skin. Belotero Balance is a unique filler created through the proprietary Cohesive Polydensified Matrix (CPM) process — CPM produces a smooth, flexible hyaluronic acid gel that easily integrates into the skin’s natural structure and effectively smooths out etched-in facial wrinkles and fine lines. Its special properties provide a soft, even correction for delicate facial areas such as the lips, lip lines, and under-eye hollows. Dr. Green prefers Belotero for the under-eye area because it lowers the risk of the Tyndall effect. The Tyndall effect can cause a blue discoloration when light reflects off particles in the dermal filler after injection. However, due to Belotero’s very small particle size and gentle nature, the Tyndall effect is not a concern with this product. Results with Belotero typically last around 6 months.

Sculptra dermal filler

Sculptra is an FDA-approved, biocompatible synthetic injectable that contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Once injected, PLLA stimulates the body’s collagen production, resulting in a firm, smooth texture and a youthful appearance. Sculptra is a very popular facial filler choice for those seeking a “liquid facelift,” as it uses a deeper injection technique to provide long-lasting results of up to 2 years. It is ideal for patients looking to restore volume in the cheeks, temples, jaw, and chin, as well as for overall facial rejuvenation in the forehead and mouth areas. Additionally, Sculptra is often used for buttock augmentation, knee rejuvenation, hand revitalization, and the reduction of stretch marks, cellulite, and acne scars. Unlike hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, Sculptra requires a series of three to four treatments, spaced one month apart, for optimal cosmetic results. After achieving full correction, Sculptra can last more than 2 years.

Radiesse dermal filler

Radiesse is an FDA-approved calcium hydroxylapatite filler that replenishes lost collagen beneath the skin. This specific facial filler employs patented microsphere technology to provide initial volume in the treatment area while also stimulating new collagen production. As a result, patients can see an immediate improvement in fine lines and wrinkles, with continued benefits as new collagen replaces the calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres, which are naturally absorbed by the body. Radiesse is a popular choice for patients seeking to reduce wrinkles and deep lines around the nose and mouth. It can also rejuvenate the hands, contour the jawline, and elevate cheekbones. After two treatments spaced 1 month apart, patients can expect Radiesse results to last up to 2 years. Radiesse is not a preferred facial filler by Dr. Green because treatment can cause lumps that cannot be dissolved.

Bellafill

Bellafill is a unique dermal filler composed of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres suspended in a volumizing matrix of purified bovine collagen and lidocaine. This matrix supports and stimulates collagen production in the body. Bellafill is FDA-approved to treat moderate to severe nasolabial folds (smile lines) and to improve the appearance of acne scars. It can also be used to replace lost collagen in the cheeks, chin, and around the mouth. The effects have been reported to last up to five years. Dr. Green avoids using Bellafill in her dermatology practice because 5% of patients who receive the injections develop an allergy to the bovine collagen in the product. If an allergy occurs, granulomas form in the treated area, which cannot be dissolved or removed.

Which areas of the face can you inject dermal fillers into?

• Cheeks
• Temples
• Smile lines (nasolabial folds)
• Marionette lines (lines running vertically from the mouth to the chin)
• Oral commissures (corners of the mouth)
• Jawline
• Chin
• Tear troughs (undereye hollows)
• Upper and lower lips
• Smoker’s lines or perioral lines (lines around the lips)
• Deep wrinkles and skin folds

Who is a good candidate for facial filler treatment?

A suitable candidate for facial filler treatment is any patient aged 21 or older who is generally healthy and has realistic expectations for their results. Patients seeking to restore lost volume, improve facial contours, or reduce mild to moderate wrinkles are ideal candidates for facial fillers. Patients should not be pregnant or breastfeeding, as safety has not been established. Other contraindications include a history of severe reactions (such as anaphylaxis), bleeding disorders, allergy to gram-positive bacterial proteins used in hyaluronic acid, or allergies to lidocaine or other ingredients in many facial fillers. If you have an active rash, infection, or breakout in the treatment area, Dr. Green may recommend delaying filler injections until your skin improves. During your consultation, Dr. Green will review your medical conditions and health history to determine if you are a good candidate for facial filler treatment.

What is the process of getting facial fillers?

The process of facial filler treatment is straightforward at the NYC office of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. First, schedule a consultation with Dr. Michele Green at her private Upper East Side dermatology office. During the visit, she will review your medical history, facial anatomy, skin concerns, and aesthetic goals to determine whether you are a good candidate for fillers and to create a personalized treatment plan for facial rejuvenation. Medical photographs will be taken to track your progress. Depending on your availability and preferences, treatment may be done on the same day.

To reduce the risk of bruising, Dr. Green recommends avoiding blood thinners, NSAIDs (such as Aspirin and Aleve), vitamin E, fish oil, and multivitamins for 1 week before the procedure. Patients prone to bruising can take Arnika Forte, an herbal supplement, several days before the procedure to help prevent bruising or promote faster bruise healing.

An hour before your facial filler appointment, apply a topical numbing cream to the treatment area to reduce discomfort during the procedure. When you arrive at the office, the numbing cream will be removed, and the skin will be sterilized for the treatment. Dr. Green will then skillfully inject the chosen facial fillers into the treatment sites. An ice pack will be immediately applied to the injection sites to minimize swelling and bruising. Aftercare instructions will be provided based on the type of facial filler used. Dr. Green encourages her patients to return for a follow-up two weeks after the procedure to review the results and determine if any additional filler is necessary.

Potential side effects of facial filler treatment

Facial filler treatments are generally very safe, especially when performed by an experienced injector like Dr. Green. Common side effects include mild skin redness, swelling, or bruising near the injection sites. These usually resolve quickly on their own after the procedure. The Tyndall effect is a blue tint visible when light reflects off the gel particles in the filler. It often happens after filler injections in the tear trough area and can be prevented by choosing a small-particle filler such as Belotero.

If you’re unhappy with the results of your hyaluronic acid fillers, they can be easily reversed with a dissolving agent. Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero can be dissolved with hyaluronidase injections. Unfortunately, biostimulating facial fillers like Sculptra, Radiesse, and Bellafill cannot be dissolved, so it is important to have your treatment performed by an experienced, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in NYC to prevent any unwanted side effects.

Although rare, allergic reactions can be serious, so it’s important to inform your injector of any allergies before treatment. Incorrectly administered facial fillers can cause severe side effects like blindness, stroke, and skin necrosis if the filler is injected into a blood vessel. It is crucial to select a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, who has the proper knowledge and expertise to safely and effectively perform your facial fillers.

What to expect after facial fillers

After facial filler injections, patients may experience mild redness, swelling, or bruising at or around the injection sites. Dr. Green will immediately apply an ice pack to the treated area following the procedure to reduce swelling. The redness and swelling usually resolve on their own within a few days. If bruising occurs, patients can take Arnica, an oral and topical herbal supplement, until the bruise heals to speed up recovery. Within one to two weeks, patients will see the full cosmetic effects, helping treat volume loss, facial wrinkles, and fine lines with a natural-looking result. Dr. Michele Green’s ‘less is more’ philosophy aims to deliver the best cosmetic outcome.

What not to do after facial fillers

After facial filler treatment, patients should avoid strenuous exercise and heat, including hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms, for 48 hours to minimize swelling around the injection sites. To prevent bruising, patients should also avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements, such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, and Vitamin E, for an additional week after treatment. Patients receiving hyaluronic acid filler treatments should refrain from applying pressure to the injection sites and allow the filler to settle naturally. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will give you all the necessary aftercare instructions specific to the facial fillers used during treatment.

How long does it take for facial filler to settle?

After receiving cosmetic facial filler injections, patients may feel anxious and excited to see the final results as soon as possible. While some results may be visible immediately after the procedure, mild swelling at or near the injection sites is often present. The time it takes for a facial filler to settle fully varies widely depending on the type of filler used. Generally, however, it can take up to two weeks for a facial filler to fully settle.

Are facial fillers permanent?

No. Facial filler injections offer temporary, yet long-lasting, results. The materials used in facial fillers are biodegradable, meaning the body naturally breaks them down over time. Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero typically last between six and twelve months, while biostimulators like Sculptra, Radiesse, and Bellafill can last two years or longer. To maintain optimal cosmetic results, regular treatment sessions are needed once or twice a year, depending on the treated area and the types of filler used. Although some may see this as a downside, many patients value the ability to adjust their dermal filler treatments as they age and their needs change.

Are facial fillers safe?

Absolutely! The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved all the facial filler products Dr. Green uses in her private dermatology office in NYC’s Upper East Side. FDA approval means the filler has undergone thorough testing to confirm its safety and effectiveness. Facial fillers are very safe, especially when administered by an experienced injector like board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. Having facial fillers done by an inexperienced injector could lead to serious side effects, including vision issues and skin necrosis if the filler accidentally gets into a blood vessel. When you get facial filler injections with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green, you can be confident that you’re in the hands of an expert with over 25 years of experience who can provide you with a safe, comfortable, effective, and satisfying treatment.

Can I combine facial fillers with other cosmetic procedures?

Yes! Facial fillers are great for restoring lost volume and enhancing facial contours and definition. However, many patients also notice other signs of aging, like dynamic wrinkles, skin laxity, and sun damage. When you see Dr. Green at her private NYC dermatology office, she will evaluate your skin type, tone, and concerns to develop a personalized, comprehensive treatment plan that gives you a radiant, youthful appearance.

Botox injections are frequently combined with dermal fillers to address fine lines and wrinkles across the face. Botox, a botulinum toxin, works by blocking signals to specific facial muscles responsible for movement. It specifically targets dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated muscle contractions. Common areas affected include forehead lines from raising the eyebrows, frown lines between the eyebrows from furrowing, and crow’s feet from smiling or squinting. When Botox is injected into these muscles, they become temporarily ‘frozen,” restricting normal contraction and preventing the formation of dynamic wrinkles. The effects typically last three to four months, after which patients can undergo maintenance treatments to sustain and improve their results.

Another popular treatment to enhance dermal fillers is Thermage, widely recognized as the gold standard for nonsurgical skin tightening in cosmetic dermatology. As we age, levels of collagen and elastin decrease, causing skin laxity and sagging. Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, resulting in firmer, smoother skin with durable results. It can be performed on the face, neck, decolletage, arms, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. Since Thermage involves no downtime, patients can resume daily activities immediately afterward. Typically, results become evident within 4 to 6 months and can last up to 2 years. Many patients opt for annual Thermage treatments to sustain their skin-tightening benefits.

Patients seeking treatment for sun damage, pigmentation, and uneven skin texture can combine their dermal filler treatments with resurfacing laser treatments such as Fraxel. Dr. Green often calls the Fraxel laser the “magic eraser” because it can target various skin issues. The 1550nm wavelength addresses fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture, and acne scars, while the 1927nm wavelength focuses on sun damage, sunspots, and discoloration. Fraxel delivers fractionated energy, heating the dermal layer to stimulate new collagen growth while leaving surrounding skin unaffected. Minimal downtime is needed, with most patients experiencing only mild redness or swelling for about 48 hours. Multiple sessions, spaced roughly one month apart, are recommended to achieve optimal cosmetic results.

For patients looking for minimal downtime with laser treatments, the Clear + Brilliant laser is an excellent choice. It effectively targets fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, sun spots, acne scars, and enlarged pores. This device uses fractionated energy to heat the deeper skin layers, encouraging new collagen growth. Many patients appreciate that Clear + Brilliant is safe and works well for all skin types and tones. Plus, there is no recovery time afterward, making it easy to schedule appointments. To attain optimal cosmetic results, multiple sessions spaced roughly a month apart are recommended.

Juvederm Voluma before and after

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about facial fillers?

What is facial contouring filler?

Facial contouring fillers, also known as dermal fillers or soft tissue fillers, are injectable substances used to smooth facial wrinkles, restore volume, define facial features, and hydrate the skin for added firmness. They can shape various areas of the face, including the cheeks, lips, chin, midface, mouth corners, under-eye area, and temples.

What do fillers do to your face?

Facial fillers mainly add volume and flexibility to the skin. Natural aging causes a loss of collagen and subcutaneous fat in the face, leading to a less youthful, less firm appearance. Injectable dermal fillers can restore some of this lost volume, giving a more youthful, refreshed appearance. Facial fillers are also very effective for reducing the look of depressed acne scars. Some dermal fillers can also promote collagen production in the treated area, resulting in smoother skin.

Will fillers help jowls?

Jowls refer to the sagging skin on the jawline and neck. They occur when the skin’s elasticity decreases with aging, due to declining collagen and elastin levels. Facial fillers in the cheeks and midface can subtly lift the area, reducing the appearance of jowls. Fillers along the jawline can also create a sharper, more defined contour and lift the jowls. For the best results, Dr. Michele Green may recommend combining Thermage with facial fillers. Thermage is a cosmetic laser that uses radiofrequency to tighten and strengthen the skin by stimulating new collagen production. Patients typically see results in four to six months after one treatment, with effects lasting up to two years. Many patients start with Thermage treatment, then follow up with filler injections for optimal jowl rejuvenation.

What are the best facial fillers?

When it comes to naming the “best facial filler” or choosing the ideal facial filler treatment, there is no single “best” option for everyone. Each facial filler product has a unique formulation that offers its own benefits, so what works best for one person may not be best for another. The best way to find out which facial fillers suit your facial anatomy, specific concerns, and aesthetic goals is to consult an expert in cosmetic dermatology, such as the internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green aims for facial rejuvenation that maintains and restores classic beauty, using a less-is-more approach to achieve natural-looking, durable results. When you work with her, she’ll evaluate your medical history, current skin condition, and aesthetic goals to recommend the most suitable dermal fillers.

How long do facial fillers last?

Facial filler injections offer temporary or semi-permanent results, depending on the type of dermal filler used. Most hyaluronic acid dermal fillers provide cosmetic effects that last between six and twelve months, mainly influenced by the patient’s metabolism, the amount of product used, and the specific type of HA filler. Cosmetic injectables made from substances like calcium hydroxylapatites and poly-L-lactic acids, such as Radiesse and Sculptra, generally last longer than hyaluronic acid fillers. After an initial series of treatments, Radiesse and Sculptra injections typically last two to five years.

What facial filler lasts the longest?

Typically, biostimulating fillers last longer than hyaluronic acid fillers. The dermal filler that provides the longest-lasting results is called Bellafill, which contains polymethylmethacrylate. Bellafill injections can produce cosmetic effects that last up to five years. Next is Sculptra, a dermal filler made of poly-L-lactic acid. Once ideal rejuvenation results are achieved with Sculptra, the effects can last up to two years. Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Restylane and Juvederm, are temporary treatments that typically last 6 to 12 months. Although the longevity varies, nearly all facial fillers offer long-term benefits by promoting healthy skin and collagen production. Patients can also maintain their results through touch-up injections. When you consult with expert injector Dr. Michele Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan and timeline for your facial filler injections to meet your needs and goals the best.

Do fillers stay in your face forever?

No, facial fillers do not last forever. Dermal fillers are semi-permanent, with results lasting from six months to several years. The duration of the results depends primarily on the type of dermal filler used and the patient’s metabolism. The fact that facial fillers are semi-permanent rather than permanent is often seen as a major benefit. As we age, our skin concerns, needs, and aesthetic preferences change. The semi-permanent nature of facial fillers allows flexibility in your cosmetic treatment plan. As your goals evolve, Dr. Green can modify your custom treatment plan to help you achieve consistently stunning, natural-looking, and long-lasting results.

Are fat grafts better than facial fillers?

Facial fat grafting is an outpatient surgical procedure used to improve textural irregularities. During this process, liposuction is used to harvest fat from one part of the body, which is then purified before being injected into another area. Fat grafting procedures are performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in a medical setting and can enhance the face, breasts, buttocks, hips, and even the hands and feet. Since fat grafts require invasive liposuction to harvest the fat and a costly purification process, they have become less popular in recent years. Unfortunately, there is no simple method to correct or reverse the effects if the results are unsatisfactory. Many patients and providers now prefer hyaluronic acid and biostimulator fillers because of their safety, effectiveness, accessibility, lack of downtime, and long-lasting results. It is essential to consult with a cosmetic dermatology expert, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, to determine whether facial fillers or fat transfer better align with your facial structure, concerns, and aesthetic goals.

How much do facial fillers cost?

The total cost of facial filler injections varies based on several factors, including the medical facility’s location, the number of syringes used, and the specific filler types chosen. Patients who need more filler should expect higher overall costs than those using just one syringe. Additionally, your injector’s experience level significantly affects the total price. It is often more affordable to have dermal filler injections with a nurse injector in a medical spa or salon than with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist. However, it’s important to be very selective when choosing an injector to ensure you get satisfying cosmetic results and avoid unwanted or serious side effects. When you opt for an expert board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in NYC, you can be confident that your treatment will be patient-focused and produce excellent results. If a rare side effect occurs, Dr. Green has the expertise to treat and resolve any concerns.

Can facial fillers be removed?

Dermal fillers are made from substances that the body naturally metabolizes over time, so their effects are only temporary. Hyaluronic acid fillers typically last 6 to 12 months, depending on the specific type used. If the results are undesirable, hyaluronic acid fillers can also be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. Biostimulating fillers like Sculptra, Radiesse, and Bellafill can last for 2 years or longer after injection. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, these cannot be dissolved once injected, which is why it’s crucial to consult with an experienced injector like Dr. Michele Green.

Do facial fillers hurt?

Not at all! Facial filler injections with Dr. Green are virtually painless. Dr. Green uses dermal fillers containing lidocaine, an anesthetic that enhances patient comfort during the procedure. Additionally, Dr. Green applies a topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort during dermal filler injections.

Do facial fillers migrate?

The likelihood of facial filler migration rises when an unskilled or unqualified injector performs the procedure. Selecting the wrong dermal filler, administering excessive amounts, or using incorrect injection techniques can lead to filler migration. Therefore, it’s essential to choose an experienced and knowledgeable injector for dermal filler treatments. Dr. Green is a board-certified dermatologist and expert injector with over 25 years of experience in delivering top-quality non-invasive cosmetic procedures.

Do facial fillers dissolve?

The composition of a facial filler determines if it can be dissolved. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be fully dissolved and reversed with hyaluronidase, an enzyme that naturally breaks down hyaluronic acid in the body. Patients who notice lumps or bumps lasting more than 2 weeks after injections should return to their injector for hyaluronidase treatment. Sculptra, Radiesse, and Bellafill are examples of semi-permanent dermal fillers that cannot be dissolved or removed. The body will metabolize these semi-permanent fillers over several years. To minimize the risk of unwanted side effects, it’s important to consult an experienced injector, like board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, who has the expertise to safely and effectively administer facial filler injections.

How to dissolve facial fillers

Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that breaks the bonds between hyaluronic acid molecules. Once broken, these molecules are divided into small fragments that the body’s natural processes can easily absorb. Hyaluronidase works quickly and effectively to dissolve unwanted hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, or Belotero in the treated area. Its activity typically peaks at 48 hours, and many patients begin to see results within 2-3 days after the procedure, with full effects appearing around two weeks post-treatment. Dr. Green recommends that patients wait two weeks before returning for a follow-up appointment, during which Dr. Green can evaluate the results of the initial hyaluronidase treatment and determine if additional sessions are necessary.

What happens to facial fillers over time?

Over time, facial fillers will be broken down by the body’s metabolism. The rate of breakdown depends on the type and amount of filler used, as well as the patient’s metabolism. As the filler dissipates, patients may notice increased volume loss, reduced contour or definition, and more visible acne scars in the treated area. As the effects of the filler fade, patients can visit Dr. Green’s office for a touch-up to maintain optimal results and preserve their youthful appearance.

Where can I find facial fillers near me?

The FDA classifies facial fillers as medical device implants, so it is essential to choose an injector with proper training, knowledge, and qualifications to perform injections. Treatments by unqualified injectors carry a higher risk of unwanted or severe side effects. Furthermore, facial filler injections should only be done in a sterile medical setting and should not be purchased online. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in NYC is vital to ensure that your facial filler procedure is both safe and effective. Dr. Green, a member of the American Society of Dermatology, oversees the safety and practice of facial fillers. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Green performs your facial filler treatments in her private Upper East Side dermatology office, helping you achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation with lasting results.

How do I get started with facial fillers in New York City today?

Facial fillers are a safe, minimally invasive way to restore volume, enhance facial features and contours, reduce acne scars, and achieve a more youthful look. There are different types of fillers with unique properties, each suited for specific needs. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero deliver immediate results after injection, while biostimulating fillers like Sculptra and Radiesse provide long-lasting effects after a series of treatments. Facial fillers have become the preferred option for facial rejuvenation due to their minimal downtime, simple procedures, and impressive outcomes. To ensure safety, good results, and fewer side effects, it is essential to have these injections performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist. When administered by a professional such as Dr. Green, you can expect smooth, natural-looking, and long-lasting results.

Dr. Michele Green is a globally recognized expert in cosmetic dermatology, known for her artistic approach, holistic style, and less-is-more philosophy. With over 25 years of experience, she has provided some of the world’s most discerning clients with top-quality facial filler injections, laser treatments, chemical peels, microneedling, and more. She is consistently ranked among NYC’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times for her dedication and expertise. Dr. Green values the relationships she develops with her patients and collaborates with them to create personalized treatment plans that include the best skincare and in-office procedures. Whether you want to restore age-related volume loss, diminish fine lines and deep wrinkles, enhance facial features, or undergo full-face rejuvenation, Dr. Green will tailor a cosmetic plan to your needs. Feel free to contact us online today or call our NYC office at 212-535-3088 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Green and start your journey to looking and feeling your best.