COSMETIC FILLERS

Fillers are materials that are placed into deeper lines and wrinkles. Most common filler agents are used for smile lines, wrinkles between the eyebrow, sagging cheekbones or to enhance the appearance of upper and lower lips. Filler agents are ideally combined with BOTOX ® injections that are used for wrinkles caused by too much muscle tone. Wrinkles such as frown lines, crow's feet, marionette lines and vertical lip lines are better treated with BOTOX ® than a cosmetic filler agent.

How does it work? / What are the available cosmetic fillers? / Results?

Over the years a variety of filler agents have been successfully used. Each filler is a different material and the duration of filling may vary between the different substances. Human collagen (Cosmoplast ®) is used for smile lines and other wrinkles, lip enhancement and scar correction. In contrast to bovine collagen, human collagen treatment does not require skin tests. Results typically last two to six months. Among the newer cosmetic filler agents are those containing hyaluronic acid. This sugar like material is highly popular in Europe and Canada. Recent FDA studies have led to the availability of Restylane®, Juvederm and Captique. Generally skin tests are not required. The material is soft and is very popular for the treatment of smile lines. Results typically last three to eight months. Dr. Effron has enormous experience with both Restylane ® and Juvederm and was part of Allergan’s clinical study of Juvederm. Sculptra ® is included in the category of fillers, but is better called a skin volume enhancer. The injected substance is poly L-lactic acid. The material is used to treat sunken cheeks that result from the aging process. A series of injections over several months is required and the final improvement will take up to six months. The clinical benefit can also last up to three years.

Getting Started

We will be happy to discuss comsetic fillers and any other questions you may have. Please feel free to call for a private consultation or schedule an appointment online at one of our offices. Huntington Beach | Anaheim Hills