Injectable Fillers

What are injectable fillers?

Injectable fillers are also known as "fat fillers".  They are used to smooth wrinkles and create a younger look for the patient.  It is a common practice that the surgeon harvests fat from the patient’s body and places it back into other areas of the body where it is needed.

There are many choices when it comes to injectable fillers. If what you seek is something to use for facial treatment then you are going to get so confused going through the many options of brands to chose from. The types of fillers to choose from include those containing collagen, hyaluronic acid, human fat and hydoxylapatie.

Procedure

After evaluating skin tone and expectations, your plastic surgeon will determine the injection sites for fat fillers. Since this is a minor procedure, a plastic surgeon will only apply topical numbing ointment to minimize discomfort before the injections.  Following the procedure, ice is applied to the multiple injection sites to alleviate any discomfort.

Important Facts about Injectable Fillers

1.  Fat fillers are normally obtained from the patient having the procedure.

2.  Collagen fillers also include Human-based collagen.  These fillers are biocompatible and the results they produce could stay for as long as 4 months.

3.  Sometimes, fats are extracted from another part of the body; these fats are prepared and are transferred back into the body.

4.  When FDA approves an injectable filler, it is for a specific use.

5.  Bovine-based collagen fillers are derived from Cows and can be used as supplement for eye and lips areas.

6.  Some people are allergic to Bovine-based collagen fillers so the doctor will first conduct tests to determine if a patient is allergic before considering using this option.

Post Treatment Care and Benefits

The injectable filler can leave bruises and cause the point of injection to be swollen.  Redness might also be observed and also there might be some swelling.  It takes 1 week to 2 weeks for healing to become effective.  Not until all the swelling and redness have vanished before results can be observed. The results are not always permanent.  In most cases they are temporary for 4 to 5 months. After that you might need to get back to the surgeon for another dosage.

Questions to Ask your Plastic Surgeon

1.  What are the risks that are involved with Injectable Fillers?

2.  What is the procedure like?

3.  Can I see before and after pictures of previous surgeries?

4.  How soon will you be able to resume your normal activities?

5.  Would my health care plan pay or reimburse the expenses?

6.  Where and how will you perform my surgery?

7.  What are the risks associated with this procedure?

8.  Will I be given medication after surgery? What kind?