By Dr. Maria Lombardo
Through the normal aging process we all lose volume or fullness in our faces. Usually the first noticeable sign is a deepening of the naso-labial folds that start at the corner of the nose and end at the corners of the mouth. Replacing the fullness with a “filler” can soften the look of those lines and restore a more youthful appearance. There are several filler options available. Hyaluronic Acid is one that is very routinely used.
Hyaluronic acid is compatible with the human body because it is a substance that is found in every single organic living thing. Its main purpose in the human body is to act as a network that transfers essential nutrients from the bloodstream to skin cells. It is most present in the human body in fluids around the eye area and in the joints. In fact, aside from its applications to cosmetic surgery, it is also often injected into joints to relieve rheumatism and other kinds of joint pain. The names of some of the products that are associated with use for cosmetic surgery are Restylane, Juvederm, Voluma and Volbella. These are the most popular injectables that are used to fill lines and wrinkles. In its purest essence, HA is a gel like substance that sits between the skin and connective tissues supporting the skin. When injected, it acts like an inflated cushion to support facial structures and tissues that may have lost volume and elasticity due to aging and other causes. It is also hydrates the skin by bringing water to the surface which helps give it a refreshed and more youthful appearance.
The procedure itself is considered non-invasive and does not require anything but a topical anesthetic administered to the site of injection (to help with any pain caused by the insertion of the needle). The needles used for this procedure are very fine and tiny and depending on how many areas are being treated the treatment takes between 10 to 30 minutes. It is an outpatient procedure and people typically return to their normal activities the same day. The results usually last between 6-24 months depending on your life style, body chemistry and the rate at which you are naturally aging. It is important to realize that this is a temporary solution and not a permanent cure for facial problems. To maintain their youthful appearance most people have new injections 1-2 times a year.
Several other filler products are available too. Call today to make an appointment with Dr. Maria Lombardo (760)610-8990 and discuss if fillers are the right choice for you!
