FDA-approved dermal filler products are available in a variety of forms used by plastic surgeons. Fillers are generally classified according to the material from which they are made. Injections of FDA-approved gels and fillers not only do not cause significant side effects, but also have a longer duration and a better and safer mechanism and function.
Dr. Mozhgan Dahmardnezhad explains the different types of fillers:
Hyaluronic Acid or Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural substance that is present in the skin and helps to volume and hydrate the skin. HA fillers are usually soft and gel-like. The results of HA gel and filler injections are temporary and take from 6 to 12 months or even longer for the body to gradually and naturally absorb the filler particles. Most HA fillers are injected with lidocaine to feel the least amount of pain during the injection and after treatment.
Calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA)
Another substance that is widely used in gel and filler injections is calcium hydroxyapatite filler, which is a natural substance found in our bones. The consistency of CaHA filler is typically thicker than that of hyaluronic acid filler and is more durable and long lasting. In most patients, the effects of this filler injection remain for about 12 months. Calcium hydroxyapatite also helps stimulate natural collagen production and is used to remove deeper lines and wrinkles. The CaHA filler under the Radiesse®️ brand is for moderate to severe unwanted wrinkles.
Poly-L-lactic acid
Poly-L-lactic is a biocompatible substance, which means that it is safe to use in the body. This material has been used for many years in medical devices such as soluble sutures. Poly-L-lactic acid products are technically classified as “collagen stimulants” because their main mechanism is to smooth lines and help the skin regenerate natural collagen. Poly-L-lactic acid is commonly used to treat deeper facial wrinkles and the results can last for more than 2 years.
Sculptra®️ brand poly-L-lactic acid filler is an injectable cosmetic filler to restore lost facial volume due to aging or disease. This injection will give your face up to 2 years of youth.
Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)
Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a biocompatible synthetic material that has been used in medicine for centuries.
In fillers, PMMA is shaped like a “microsphere” or a tiny ball that stays under the skin during gel and filler injection, helping to strengthen and volume the skin. PMMA fillers also contain collagen, which is a natural substance in the skin and its use creates the structure and firmness of facial skin. FDA approved PMMA filler under the Bellafill®️ brand, formerly known as Artefill
Autologous fat injection (facial fat transplant) by Dr. Mozhgan Dahmardnezhad:
“Autologous fat injections are the only injection filler that requires surgery and is invasive,” says Dr. Mozhgan Dahmardnezhad.
But the results last for many years. Liposuction typically removes fat from another area of the body and then refines and injects fat cells to help restore volume to the cheeks, lips, eyelids or other areas. Achieving excellent results in fat injection requires specialized experience and training. This method must be performed by a plastic surgeon.