What are fillers?

Filler materials are typically used to decrease facial folds, facial wrinkles or can be used to enhance lip fullness. Specifically, the fillers can be used to decrease smile lines (nasolabial folds), marionette folds, wrinkles around the mouth and eyes as well as decrease frown lines (glabella furrows).

Collagen injections were approved by the FDA in the early 1980s. The early collagens, Zyderm and Zyplast are derived from bovine (cow) collagen. These agents require allergy testing because of the rare risk of allergic reaction. More recently human derived collagen, Cosmoderm and Cosmoplast have been introduced which do not require allergy testing. These temporary fillers have been shown to be very effective and safe.

The newest class of temporary fillers to be approved by the FDA are hyaluronic acid fillers: (Juvaderm, Restylane, Hylaform, Captique). These are natural sugars that are identical across species meaning they are the same in all animals and humans therefore allergic testing is not necessary. Juvaderm, Restylane and Captique are derived from bacteria whereas Hylaform is isolated from avian (bird source) so you may not be a candidate for Hylaform if you have any bird related allergy, which is rare.

How is the procedure done?

The fillers come prepackaged by the manufacture in syringes of various volumes. They are injected with tiny needles to minimize bruising and discomfort. Depending on the individual, various volumes (# of syringes) are used to fill wrinkles, folds or to increase the size of lips.

The treatment session typically takes less than one hour. There is no downtime and results can be seen immediately. Following injections, there may be some redness and slight swelling and or bruising at the injection sites. There is no recovery period so you can return immediately to work and resume activities.

What kind of medications will be given to me?

To minimize discomfort, topical anesthetic cream is applied to the skin as well as ice prior to injections. Occasionally, local injected anesthetic may be used for lip injections.

How long will it last?

These effective, proven safe treatments are temporary and require repeat treatments when desired by the individual.

CRAIG MEZROW. M.S., M.D., F.A.C.S.
PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY - PHILADELPHIA
15 North Presidential Blvd, Suite 200
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Phone: (610) 664-5500, (800) 733-6968
Fax: (610) 664-7548