Not too long ago the only realistic way of taking a few years off an aging face, was to undergo a facelift.  Nowadays, with the increase in revolutionary new treatments for skin care, patients no longer need to face the surgeon's scalpel to remove unwanted lines and wrinkles.

Dermal fillers offer an alternative to a surgical facelift while providing a more natural result. Procedures are quick with little or no pain and minimal side effects.



There are several types of dermal fillers which are approved by the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration), some of which offer a longer lasting result.

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are gel-based substances which are injected into the skin using very fine needles. Generally, they're made from different materials which may be man-made, synthetic or derived from natural sources. Their most common usage is for cosmetic enhancement to smooth out wrinkles, fill scars and deeper skin folds as well as facial contouring and lip enhancement. Some of the newer, sophisticated dermal fillers also work to stimulate natural collagen production which helps develop plumper, more youthful looking skin.

How long do fillers last?

The length of time fillers last depends largely on the type of filler used, but other factors include depth of wrinkles targeted, the number of top-ups given and the individual's reaction to the filler. While hyaluronic acid-based fillers such as Restylane, Perlane and Juvéderm® are popular choices, they generally provide a more temporary solution, lasting anywhere from a few months up to a year or more with top ups. Collagen-based dermal fillers or those made from other products however, can last well over a year and sometimes provide a permanent result.

Longest lasting dermal fillers

1. Artefill®
Artefill® is a permanent dermal filler made from a special gel containing polymethylmethacrylate and cow collagen as well as a local anesthetic. This filler works by adding volume and contours to facial wrinkles and deeper folds of skin. Although the effects are permanent, those receiving this filler generally need at least two treatments for optimal effects and an allergy test is necessary beforehand to rule out the possibility of an allergic reaction. Artefill® received FDA approval in October 2006.

2. Evolence ®

Evolence® received FDA approval in June 2008. This filler is derived from pig-based (porcine) collagen and is suitable for correcting moderate to deep facial wrinkles including nose to mouth lines (nasolabial folds). Evolence® binds naturally with the body's own collagen, adding structure and volume where needed. The results are immediately noticeable and the effects last for a minimum of 12 months.

3. Radiesse™

Radiesse™ is made of calcium-based microspheres and is recommended for facial contouring including filling hollow cheeks, correction of nose and chin indentations, marionette lines and nasolabial folds. It can also work well on expression lines, filling scars and providing lip enhancement. Using Radiesse™ may also help the body produce new collagen and the effects should last a minimum of one year but may last up to two years. FDA approval for Radiesse™ was granted in December 2006.

4.Sculptra®

Sculptra® is a longer lasting synthetic dermal filler which uses poly L lactic acid to thicken the skin. This volumizing treatment stimulates the build-up of the body’s natural collagen while helping to restore lost volume and smooth out lines and wrinkles. Although the initial treatments should last for up to two years, repeat treatments will be necessary to maintain the effect. Sculptra® was approved by the FDA in August 2004.

Dermal fillers are becoming ever more popular and are seen as an acceptable means of restoring sagging or wrinkled skin. However, because some dermal fillers last longer than one or two years and in some cases are permanent, these procedures should never be undertaken lightly. As such, anyone considering using a dermal filler will require an initial consultation with a doctor or esthetic surgeon who will help to establish the most suitable treatment to achieve the desired result.

Further information:

FDA
Forbes.com
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