What's new in dermal cosmetic fillers, what's best for me?

Fillers are an area of rapid expansion in facial plastic surgery. New fillers are receiving approval very rapidly. When used appropriately the results can lead to a very natural aesthetic enhancement.

Fillers are products used to replace volume or fill lines. They are useful in lines on the face such as wrinkles, deep lines around the mouth (nasolabial folds). They can also fill out hollow cheeks for a volumizing effect; enhance lip appearance with a more full lip.

Fillers are injected into the skin or directly beneath the skin to have their effect. The type of filler determines where it is placed. There are many techniques for injection depending on the site and the goal of the injection.

Three major fillers are: hyaluronic acid, collagen and calcium hydroxyapatite. The fillers last a varying amount of time. The injectable process may involve some anesthesia (ice, topical agent or injectable) prior to the injections.

Consult a facial plastic surgeon in Toronto with experience in fillers. The surgeon should not only have experience in fillers, but also other techniques of facial rejuvenation since a patient may feel that they need a filler, but another procedure would be more appropriate. Before booking a consultation, carefully consider how long you want the filler to last. Many people like the idea of a long lasting filler, but if the result is not what the patient had envisioned, they may be unhappy that the appearance cannot be changed for some time.

At the consultation ask the facial plastic surgeon what are available fillers. The surgeon should be able to discuss all the fillers on the market to help the patient decide what will best  suit their needs.