8 things you should know before you get facial fillers

Written by Dr. Amit Patel, an expert in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.

As you grow wiser and consider ways to rejuvenate your appearance with little downtime from a busy life, facial fillers may be your answer. 

If you’ve never had fillers before, trying to figure out what is best for you can seem overwhelming at first. As a plastic surgeon at UK HealthCare, I will break down the eight things you should know before you schedule your appointment.

1. Not all fillers are the same. Most fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, which integrates into your face as soon as it’s injected to give your skin a plump, hydrated look. These types of fillers are very safe and eventually dissolve into your skin. In fact, hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by your body. More permanent fillers are also available.

2. They’re not just for your lips. In addition to plumping your lips, fillers can be used to treat facial lines and other creases. They are also used to sculpt/re-shape/spruce up everything from cheekbones and jawlines to noses and chins. Yes, they are a great tool for adding back a little twinkle while zapping an unwanted wrinkle. 

3. Fillers aren’t the same as Botox. As the name implies, fillers fill while products like Botulinum toxin “freeze” muscles to reduce wrinkles when we animate our face (example: the lines that form when you raise your eyebrows).

4. Less is more. You and your doctor will decide on what you think works best for you, but the best fillers are the ones that freshen your look without being too dramatic.

5. It does hurt – a little. I use a syringe to inject the filler into your skin; however, I use several methods (including a topical numbing agent, breathing techniques, music therapy, etc. at your request) to minimize the pain.  

6. Fillers don’t last forever. Hyaluronic acid fillers can last anywhere between three months to two years, so remember that you will have to schedule follow-ups if you want to maintain this look.  We can discuss permanent options if you decide to go that route. 

7. Not happy with the results? We can fix that. Because most fillers are made of substances naturally found in our bodies, your doctor is able to dissolve the filler altogether if you’re not completely satisfied with how it turned out.

8. There’s no downtime. While there may be some swelling and bruising around the injection site, you will be able to resume normal activities after your procedure. Just be sure to follow doctor’s orders for after-care.