If you’ve been thinking about getting dermal fillers, then you’ve probably been doing a lot of research. You probably already know that fillers have become extremely popular in the last ten years and offer a wide range of benefits. You probably love the idea of an effective, non-surgical treatment that uses safe biocompatible substances.
You’ve probably also read some horror stories from patients who had bad experiences and read some questionable “facts” about fillers. When you do your research it’s important to keep your eyes open and learn to separate facts from fiction. Fillers are a great treatment option, but they’re not right for everyone and it’s important to get educated from reputable sources. Here are some of the top myths about facial fillers you may have seen circulating online.
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Myth #1: They’re Painful
One of the biggest advantages of facial fillers is that they’re non-invasive and require only a short injection session. A fine needle is used to administer the product, which some people claim is extremely painful.
Sure, being poked by a needle isn’t usually the highlight of anyone’s day, but it definitely doesn’t have to be an awful experience. Many dermal filler formulas come pre-mixed with lidocaine, a local anesthetic that makes the treatment less painful.
Everyone has their own individual level of pain tolerance and needs to determine whether or not they need extra numbing. Almost all plastic surgeons and aestheticians offer topical numbing cream to make the treatment more comfortable.
Myth #2: They Don’t Last Very Long
In the past, dermal fillers weren’t expected to last much more than 4 months—6 months, tops. But thanks to advances in cosmetic medicine, many of today’s filler formulas can last much longer than that. Fillers aren’t permanent, but some formulas can last up to two years, making them more cost-effective and convenient.
There are several factors that go into how long a filler will last. Where you get your fillers matters—high movement areas like the lips will need more maintenance than the cheeks. The filler formula will also determine how long the results will last. Thicker gel fillers, which are used for larger areas, last longer than thinner gels. Finally, some patients just metabolize fillers more quickly than others.
The idea that fillers don’t last very long is a myth due to all the different factors involved. Depending on your goals and the fillers you choose, you might need to visit the office every six months, or not for a couple of years.
Myth #3: All Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Are the Same
Many dermal fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance that the body creates naturally. Some people think that because they are made from the same material, the results are identical. However, this isn’t true at all—some HA fillers have different molecule sizes, different consistencies, and different intended treatment areas. It’s important to consult an expert when choosing an HA filler to ensure that you get the best, longest-lasting results possible.
Myth #4: They Don’t Look Natural
Prospective patients are often worried that dermal fillers won’t look natural after they see lip augmentation patients with “duck lips” or other aesthetic disasters. The truth is that dermal fillers can look incredibly natural when they are given by a medical professional who is experienced in performing filler injections and understands facial anatomy.
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In many cases, less is more with fillers. Injectables look very natural when they are used sparingly and placed carefully. It is important for patients to choose a qualified provider and to communicate their cosmetic goals before moving forward with the procedure to ensure a natural look and feel.
Myth #5: You’ll Have to Keep Getting Them Forever
Fillers are temporary and must be repeated in order to maintain the results. Patients often come in once or twice a year to have their results refreshed so they can look and feel their best. But it is a myth that once you start getting fillers, you have to keep getting them.
Nothing will happen if you don’t refresh your fillers except that your face will eventually go back to the way it was before fillers. If you don’t like the results, you don’t have to continue to get treatments. You can even have the results reversed if you don’t like the way you look! Most patients are happy with their results and choose to repeat their treatments, but you’re not stuck with your new look if you don’t like it or don’t feel like spending more on fillers.
Myth #6: Fillers Can Replace Surgery
Dermal fillers are incredibly versatile and effective treatments, but they can’t accomplish every cosmetic goal. There’s a reason some patients opt for surgery over non-surgical treatments: some goals just require a more invasive procedure. After all, no one would choose surgery over a non-surgical option if it worked just as well.
Take some time to really think about what you want. Do you need surgery to feel happy with your results? Or will fillers realistically be able to help you get the look you want? It’s important to choose the treatment that is right for you and to understand the limitations, pros, and cons of each option.
Myth #7: Any Medical Professional Can Inject Dermal Fillers
It’s very important to choose an experienced and knowledgeable cosmetic medicine professional to perform dermal filler injections. Although different medical professionals may offer fillers as an additional service, your results might not be what you’d hoped for. Dermal fillers require extensive skill and training for safety and the best results.
If you’re looking for a trained aesthetician to help you get the results you’re dreaming of, then it may be time to schedule a consultation at Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique in Houston, Texas. Our aestheticians are highly trained and experienced and are overseen by Dr. Paul Vitenas, a renowned Houston plastic surgeon. To schedule your appointment, call (281) 810-9083 today.