Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to address facial wrinkles and volume loss by replenishing areas where the skin has deteriorated and sagged due to aging. The most commonly used fillers are composed of Hyaluronic Acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps maintain skin hydration and volume. When injected, HA fillers can restore smoothness and firmness to the skin, resulting in a more youthful appearance. Additionally, due to their hydrophilic nature, HA fillers attract water, enhancing skin moisture and delaying the formation of future wrinkles. Beyond wrinkle reduction, fillers are also employed to modify facial structures in areas such as the chin, temples, and forehead, allowing for aesthetic enhancements without the need for surgery. In medical practice, the term “filler” encompasses various injectable substances, which can be categorized into four main types:

• Hyaluronic Acid (HA): Safe, biodegradable, and widely used globally.
• Animal-derived Collagen: Less commonly used today due to higher risks of allergic reactions and inflammation.
• Autologous Fat Transplantation: Suitable for individuals requiring larger volume restoration (10-20 cc), involving the transfer of the patient’s own fat.
• Biosynthetic Polymers: Includes substances like liquid silicone, which are not biodegradable, carry safety concerns, and lack FDA approval.

In Thailand, several HA fillers have received FDA approval. Medical professionals assess and select the appropriate filler type based on the specific area and issue to ensure optimal and natural-looking results. While filler injections are generally considered safe, it is crucial to choose a reputable clinic that uses authentic products and employs experienced practitioners utilizing correct injection techniques to ensure safety.

Advantages of Filler Injections:

• Effectively address wrinkles and enhance facial contours.
• Provide immediate results without scarring or downtime.
• Approved by health authorities, minimizing risks of allergic reactions and leaving no residues in the body.
• Allow for periodic maintenance or complete removal without harm.
• Precisely target problem areas, yielding natural outcomes.
• Excel in treating delicate regions, such as under-eye areas and nasolabial folds.

Risks of Using Counterfeit Fillers:

Injecting counterfeit fillers poses significant dangers, including the formation of hard lumps, allergic reactions, inflammation, infection, skin irregularities, and, in severe cases, tissue necrosis or blindness. Unauthorized and non-FDA-approved fillers may not degrade naturally, necessitating surgical removal. Therefore, it is imperative to select certified clinics that utilize genuine, FDA-approved fillers and have qualified medical professionals to ensure safety and efficacy.

Choosing a Filler Brand:

Choosing the right filler brand depends on the specific area you wish to treat, as no single brand or product is suitable for all facial regions and skin types. A qualified physician will assess your individual concerns and select the most appropriate filler to achieve natural and effective results. Currently, there are several reputable filler brands from countries like Sweden, the USA, Switzerland, and Italy. Each brand offers various products with distinct properties tailored for different facial areas and desired outcomes. Here is a summary of some popular filler brands and their respective product longevity:

• Restylane (Sweden):
  • Restylane Perlane Lyft: Firm gel suitable for enhancing facial contours; lasts approximately 12 months.
  • Restylane Vital Light: Soft gel ideal for superficial wrinkles and skin hydration; lasts about 6–12 months.
  • Restylane Volyme: Soft, flexible gel for volumizing areas like temples and cheeks; lasts up to 18 months.
• Juvederm (USA):
  • Juvederm Ultra Plus XC: Soft gel that retains moisture well, suitable for temples, lips, and nasolabial folds; lasts around 12 months.
  • Juvederm Volbella: Very fine gel ideal for forehead injections, providing natural results without lumpiness; lasts about 12 months.
  • Juvederm Volite: Fine gel for superficial skin layers, enhancing hydration and smoothness; lasts 8–12 months.
  • Juvederm Volux: Firm gel with high elasticity, ideal for chin and deep nasolabial folds; lasts 18–24 months.
• Belotero (Switzerland):
  • Belotero Volume: Firm gel with high elasticity, suitable for deep under-eye areas and lip enhancement; lasts up to 18 months.
  • Belotero Intense: Firm gel designed for correcting deep folds and volume loss; lasts approximately 18 months.
  • Belotero Soft: Fine gel for superficial wrinkles and delicate areas like under the eyes; lasts 6–12 months.
• Definisse (Italy):
  • Definisse Core Filler: Firm gel for structural facial enhancements like cheeks and chin; lasts about 18 months.
  • Definisse Restore Filler: Medium-firm gel for deep wrinkles and volume restoration; lasts around 12 months.
  • Definisse Touch Filler: Soft gel for fine lines and delicate areas such as lips and under the eyes; lasts 8–12 months.

The longevity of fillers varies based on the product used, the area treated, and individual factors. It’s essential to consult with an experienced physician to determine the most suitable filler for your specific needs.