Stand in a room full of people. Everyone is beautiful in her own unique way. However, some may have slightly smoother skin, noticeably fuller cheeks, and plumper lips. This is thanks to the rise in dermal fillers. Fillers don’t “freeze” the muscle – instead, they smooth skin by filling the wrinkles. “They are used to correct lines, restore volume, or lift the face. They are also used to create structure and define areas such as the jawline,” explains Brazilian plastic surgeon Dr. Mauricio de Maio.
In the past, collagen was the most common component of filler. Now hyaluronic acid has entered the spotlight. “From a chemical perspective, it’s a naturally occurring sugar present in the skin and that is responsible for moisturizing and maintaining elasticity,” says De Maio. Injecting a filler like Juvéderm offers natural plumping action to help improve lost volume while replenishing your body’s own natural production of hyaluronic acid.
When going under the needle, it’s vital to understand and trust the brand you’re using. Says De Maio, “Fillers are very safe if they are biodegradable and based on hyaluronic acid” – such as Juvéderm. The best way to ensure you are being offered the most effective product for your skin is by finding the right injector. “The most important part is having a proper consultation. Make sure you check the credentials of the clinic and the injector,” De Maio advises.
A good practitioner will make listening to their clients’ concerns a priority. “I always mention to my patients to be wise about beauty,” says Dr. Jeehan Abdul Qadir, executive chairperson of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Hospital in Dubai. “I advise patients to discuss the problems they have with the doctor. Some people go directly to the doctor saying, ‘I want fillers,’ without realizing why they need filler. The doctor needs to know the reason for injecting a filler.”
As with every procedure, there are adverse effects that may happen to anybody, says De Maio. Some of the side effects include swelling or bruises that heal within a few days, adds Qadir. How long do fillers last? “The results of Juvéderm depend on the patient,” De Maio says. “Clinical studies have shown that it can last nine to 24 months. It depends on the areas injected, how many sessions were had, and the age of the patient.”
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