New Image MedSpa Blog

Our staff gets asked this question all the time.  With all of the fillers on the market, which one is right for me.  First, you have to know that fillers can be categorized by their main ingredient.  The most widely used fillers today are based on hyularonic acid, which is a compound that is naturally occuring in our bodies.  It is what gives our skin its elasticity.  Fillers made from this compound are Juvederm, Restylane, and others.  These fillers last anywhere from 6 months to a year.  Then, there are are other fillers made of collagen.  These are Cosmoplast, Cosmoderm, etc. These fillers typically only last a few months after being injected.  

Some of the newer fillers on the market are Radiesse and Evolence.  Radiesse uses a calcium-based compound to deposit particles under the skin which then promote the generation of collagen creating a lattice-like structure under the skin.  Evolence is a new formulation of collagen which lasts up to 12 months - much more than the traditional collagen-based fillers of the past.  Then, there are other semi-permanent or permanent fillers like Sculptra.  Most people stay away from these, because these generally cannot be removed once injected and they are not absorbed.  

So which filler is right for you?  The answer is - more than one and possibly in combination.  It really depends on your goal and what you'd like to change.  Our physicians frequently use fillers in combination.  For example, for deep folds, they will use Radiesse to build up a structure deep under the skin, and then fill the superficial layers of the skin with Juvederm or Restylane.  This technique creates a soft finish (soft to the touch and very natural) - without bumps.  Sometimes, they will use Radiesse to build up higher cheek bones, or fill in marionnet lines around the mouth and chin.  Juvederm is also terrific for filling in sagginess around the eyes.  Fillers are also frequently combined with Botox in dealing with facial corrections.  Its a strong one-two punch to fix wrinkles!

 The key to fillers is not which one, but how they are used.  Filler injections require a deft touch and great skill to get it right.  And with fillers, as with most esthetic procedure, it is not the advertised price that ultimately gives highest satisfaction.  Our office is not the lowest, we are typically average or slight below average on price.  However, the experience of our physician and the incredible results come from a level of skill that is developed with time, training and lots and lots of experience.  A good eye for esthetics doesn't hurt either.