Fillers
It is estimated that we lose 2-3 ml of facial volume per year after 40 years old. Loss of facial volume leads sagging and deep lines on the face.
One of the most effective anti-aging face treatment is to refill the volume loss. The product used to fill the volume loss and deep wrinkles is called ‘filler’ or ‘dermal filler’.
What Are Fillers 填充剂
Since 1990’s, filler has evolved from permanent filler, such as artificial collagen, to absorbable filler, such as hyaluronic acid (HA) filler or Ellansé. Permanent filler often gives unnatural results due to its tendency to form lump. It has thereby been phased out from aesthetic practice since the introduction of absorbable fillers which are generally better in quality with excellent aesthetic outcomes.
HA filler was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2006. It acts as a ‘volumizer’ to plump up the sunken parts of the face. HA filler is safe and delivers predictable results because the ingredient of hyaluronic acid exists naturally in our skin.
In 2009, there was a breakthrough in filler technology, an innovative filler called Ellanse which acts as both ‘volumizer’ and ‘collagen stimulator’ was invented. This unique filler sought to target the root cause of aging which is the reduction of collagen production. It is designed to provide a more natural and longer-term solution in combating the signs of aging.
What Are The Different Types Of Fillers?
Volumizer Fillers
Traditional dermal fillers, made of hyaluronic acid (玻尿酸) that act as ‘volumizer’, are the most commonly available fillers. They are marketed under the brands of Teosyal, Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero etc.
Algeness is another filler brand which consists of agarose gel, derived from Agar-Agar (a mixture of carbohydrates extracted from seaweed/red algae).
Collagen Stimulator Fillers
Sculptra (童颜针) consists of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which works primarily to stimulate collagen. Sculptra doesn’t give immediate result because lacking of ‘volumizer’ component.
It takes 2-3 months to see result. Moreover, it requires 3 sessions of the procedure, one month apart. Post care home massage is needed to ensure even distribution of the product.
Volumizer + Collagen Stimulator
Ellansé (少女针) and Radiesse (微晶瓷) fall under this category of fillers. Patients will not only enjoy immediate results due to the ‘volumizer’ component, but also, long lasting results due to the ‘collagen stimulator’ component.
Roles Of Fillers
Anti-aging
Restoration of facial volume allows one to regain a youthful look. This is proven by comparing two individuals of the same age, the person with a fuller/plumper face would look younger.
Contour
By using a ‘harder’ form of filler, we can enhance the features of the face such as the nose, cheek and chin, without surgery. Compared to surgical implants, fillers look and feel more natural.
Hydration
Filler can retain water and promote better skin hydration, making it looks brighter and more resilient.
Hand & Neck
Filling the hollowness of hands and necklines can reverse the signs of aging over the hands and neck.
Scars
Depressed scars and cellulites can be corrected with fillers especially collagen stimulator Ellansé.
Where Can Fillers be Used?
Temples
Restore volume, smooth fine lines, and enhance facial contours.
Cheeks
Enhance volume, lift sagging skin, and restore youthful facial contours.
Forehead
Helps to soften deep lines and wrinkles, giving the forehead a smoother and more rejuvenated look.
Neckline
Smooths out horizontal creases, restoring a youthful and firm appearance to the neck.
Lips
Enhance the fullness and shape of your lips, giving you a more youthful and plump appearance.
Dark Eye Circle
Effectively reduce dark circles by adding volume and smoothing the tear trough area.
Nose
Non-surgical option to enhance the shape and contour of the nose.
Chin
Enhance the chin's shape and definition, providing a more balanced facial profile.
FAQ for Fillers
How long does under eye filler last?
Under eye filler using Redensity II or Maili Precise lasts a year, or possibly even longer. However, the lastingness is dependent on the product used, one’s lifestyle & diet.
What age should you get eye fillers?
Can fillers damage your eyes?
How do I know if I am a good candidate for under eye fillers?
Eye Fillers are a non-surgical method of reducing the appearance of dark eye circles, eye bags removal, reduce sunken or hollow tear trough. Under Eye filler is suitable for anyone who has any of these concerns and does not wish to undergo surgical procedure. It is best to seek advice from a medical professional for assessment before undergoing the treatment.
What happens when under eye filler wears off?
Under eye filler treatment is a non-invasive dark eye circle treatment procedure that adds volume to the skin beneath the eyes. The filler’s effects are not permanent as the filler will ultimately be absorbed by the body. When the filler wears off, the skin slowly returns to its natural state. The results of the filler may endure for up to a year or more before touch-ups are required, depending on the individual’s skin condition and lifestyle.