Soft Tissue Fillers

(Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane, Radiesse, RHA)

There are a variety of soft tissue fillers on the market today. In fact there are more than 60 different fillers available around the world - and the list continues to grow. At San Diego Dermatology and Laser Surgery, Dr. Lupton only uses the safest most natural appearing fillers for optimal facial augmentation. Dr. Lupton personally performs all injectable treatments himself. His advanced training and expertise coupled with over ten years of cosmetic dermatology experience, allows for the most precise and pleasing natural effects after treatment. Your result should impart a softer, more youthful appearance to the skin with softening of fine lines and improved facial contours.

No one is immune to the signs of aging as facial lines and wrinkles are caused by a gradual breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. Facial lines and furrows are directly caused by grimacing, squinting, or frowning with resultant stress on the collagen fibers. For these reasons, the soft tissue fillers were developed to improve the appearance of the skin via plumping and filling with immediate, visible results.

Dermal Filler

Dermal fillers are used to augment lips, restore volume and improve deep lines of the lower face. Results are immediate and risks are minimal, including mild swelling and/or a small bruise at the injection site. Typically, patients are treated twice a year, however over time patients will notice that their filler may begin to last longer.

What is treatment like with soft tissue fillers?

Any of the filling agents is usually injected in small amounts under the skin to fill in depressions, lines and grooves. Some of these fillers may also be injected into and/or around the lips for a more defined, fuller pout. Skin tests are no longer necessary with these injectables as they are non-animal based synthetic gels. For maximal comfort a topical anesthetic gel will most likely be applied to the area just prior to treatment. In some cases a nerve block with a few small injections inside the mouth may also be done for more prominent anesthesia - this is especially common when injecting the lip lines so as to achieve painless or nearly painless treatment.

How long do the fillers last?

The longevity of any filler depends upon the type injected, the body location, and the individual characteristics of the patient; results typically last anywhere from four months up to one year or more. The areas treated may be replenished when the effect of the injection begins to diminish at the discretion of the patient.

What are the potential side effects of soft tissue filler treatment?

Immediately post-treatment most patients will experience mild redness and swelling. Some patients may have a small bruise at an injection site or a small degree of lumpiness. These effects are temporary and usually resolve very quickly. Most patients will also notice immediate cosmetic enhancement which may increase over time.