Dermal Fillers

At Calgary Derm, we take great pride in offering top-tier dermal filler treatments. Our clinic provides safe and effective dermal filler procedures administered by medical experts, ensuring you receive the care and results you can trust.

Dermal filler treatment involves injecting a gel-like substance into the skin to restore volume, smooth lines and wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. These fillers are commonly made of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the body, which helps hydrate and plump the skin. The treatment is non-invasive and delivers immediate, natural-looking results, making it a popular choice for rejuvenating the face.

Dermal fillers and their purpose in cosmetic treatments

Dermal fillers serve various purposes in the realm of cosmetic treatments. They are mainly used to address signs of aging, such as deep wrinkles, laugh lines, marionette lines, and tear troughs (the hollows under the eyes). Fillers can also enhance facial contours by increasing volume in areas like the cheeks and lips, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing facial structure. The primary goal of dermal filler treatments is to provide natural-looking results by smoothing lines and replenishing lost volume, which can occur due to aging or lifestyle factors, providing an overall more natural appearance.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the skin, connective tissues, and eyes, where it plays a pivotal role in retaining moisture and ensuring optimal hydration. It can hold vast amounts of water, making it a key component in maintaining skin's plumpness and hydration. This ability to attract and retain moisture not only makes hyaluronic acid vital for skin health but also an ideal ingredient in skincare products and dermal fillers alike.

Role of Hyaluronic Acid in Dermal Fillers

Hyaluronic acid is at the forefront of dermal filler injectables due to its efficacy in restoring volume and smoothing lines. When injected beneath the skin's surface, hyaluronic acid fillers act as a scaffold, giving structure and support to sagging tissues while attracting moisture to the treated area. This immediate volumizing effect diminishes the visibility of wrinkles, folds, and hollow areas, which are common signs of aging.

Benefits of Using Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

The benefits of using hyaluronic acid fillers are extensive, making them a favorite choice for patients and dermatologists alike:

Immediate Results: Patients typically notice instant improvements post-treatment, with a visible reduction in the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

Safety and Reversibility: Hyaluronic acid fillers are largely hypoallergenic and can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if patients are unsatisfied with their results or experience complications.

Hydration: Aside from structural support, these fillers enhance skin hydration, contributing to a more radiant complexion.

Natural-Looking Outcomes: The fillers provide subtle and natural aesthetic improvements without altering facial expressions or movement.

Minimal Downtime: With non-invasive treatment, there's typically little to no downtime, allowing for a quick return to daily activities.

Common Treatment Areas

Dermal fillers in Calgary are highly sought after for their ability to revitalize and rejuvenate the skin. With a focus on restoring volume and smoothing out the contours of the face, these injectable treatments address various areas prone to signs of aging. Among the most commonly treated regions are the cheeks, where volume loss can lead to a sunken appearance, and the lips, which can lack fullness or develop vertical 'smoker lines' over time. Other frequent target areas include the nasolabial folds, also known as smile or laugh lines, which run from the nose to the corners of the mouth, and the marionette lines, which create an unwanted downturned expression around the mouth area. Dermal fillers also address the tear troughs, hollows under the eyes that contribute to a tired look, and fine lines across the forehead. By selecting the appropriate filler products, professional medical experts at Danny Guo MD can tailor treatments to specific skin types and concerns, ensuring natural-looking results that enhance the client's features.

The Procedure

When you visit Calgary Derm for dermal filler treatments, expect a process that combines meticulous technique with patient comfort. The procedure typically begins with a thorough consultation. Here, a medical professional will assess your facial structure, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine the right type of filler for your needs.

Once a treatment plan is crafted, the actual injection process can commence. Your skin will be cleansed, and a topical numbing cream may be applied to minimize discomfort. Strategic points on the face are then marked as guides for precise filler placement. The dermal fillers, often containing hyaluronic acid, are carefully injected into the targeted areas using fine needles or cannulas.

The technique used for the injection will depend on the area being treated and the desired outcome. Whether it’s for smoothing deep wrinkles, enhancing lips, or restoring volume in the cheeks, the procedure is relatively quick, usually taking about 30 minutes to an hour.

During a dermal filler treatment, your comfort and safety are our top priorities. Before the injections, you might feel a slight pinch, but the use of numbing agents typically makes the experience tolerable. Immediately after the treatment, it's normal to experience some redness, swelling, or a bit of tenderness at the injection sites. These are temporary and usually subside within a few days. You'll be given aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding strenuous exercise, sun exposure, and alcohol for a certain period of time to optimize healing.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Proper aftercare following dermal filler procedures is crucial for healing and achieving the best possible outcome. Following your medical professional's specific advice is vital, as it will cater to your individual needs and the specifics of your treatment. However, here are some general guidelines that can aid in your recovery and maximize the longevity of your results.

Steps to take after a dermal filler procedure for optimal results

Post-treatment care for dermal fillers can significantly affect the final appearance and duration of your aesthetic enhancements. Here are some steps to ensure optimal results:

Avoid Strenuous Activity: For at least 24-48 hours after your procedure, it's recommended to avoid vigorous exercise as it can exacerbate swelling and bruising.

Mind the Sun: Protect the treated area from excessive sun exposure. Sun damage can degrade the filler material and hasten the loss of volume.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help maintain the integrity of the filler, particularly those based on hyaluronic acid which binds water molecules.

Our professional medical experts at Danny Guo MD are specially trained to safely apply dermal fillers. Our experience, combined with our stringent hygienic standards, minimizes the odds of local infections and tissue damage and ensures aesthetics to your satisfaction. Get your dermal filler at Danny Guo MD by calling 403-286-6888 or filling out the online contact form.

Who is this treatment for?

Dermal fillers are suitable for most people and all skin types. Your body naturally produces hyaluronic acid, so the treatment is most likely safe. 

Pregnant or breastfeeding women and people on blood thinner medications should consider other solutions to slow the facial signs of aging. 

What are the expected results of this treatment? 

The rejuvenating effects of this treatment are immediately noticeable. Your enhanced appearance may last up to 2 years before additional touch-ups become necessary. 

Note that your body’s absorption rate of the hyaluronic filler depends on your metabolism.

Our professional medical experts at Danny Guo MD are specially trained to safely apply dermal fillers. Our experience, combined with our stringent hygienic standards, minimizes the odds of local infections and tissue damage and ensures aesthetics to your satisfaction. Get your dermal filler at Danny Guo MD by calling 403-286-6888 or filling out the online contact form.

What are dermal fillers, and how do they work?

Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to add volume, contour, and smooth lines on the face. They typically consist of hyaluronic acid or other biocompatible materials that replenish lost volume and stimulate collagen production.

What areas of the face can be treated with dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers can be used to enhance various facial features, including lips, cheeks, chin, jawline, under-eye area, temples, and nasolabial folds.

Is dermal filler treatment painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during dermal filler injections. Some fillers contain lidocaine, a local anesthetic, to numb the treatment area and enhance comfort.

How long do dermal fillers last?

The duration of results depends on the type of filler used, the treated area, and individual factors such as metabolism. Generally, results can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, with some fillers offering longer-lasting effects.

Are there any side effects or risks associated with dermal filler treatment?

While dermal fillers are generally safe, some common side effects may include temporary swelling, bruising, redness, or tenderness at the injection site. Serious complications such as allergic reactions or vascular occlusion are rare but possible.

Can dermal filler treatment be reversed if I'm not satisfied with the results?

Yes, hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase if necessary. This allows for adjustments or reversal of results in case of asymmetry or dissatisfaction.

How should I prepare for dermal filler treatment?

Prior to the procedure, it's recommended to avoid blood-thinning medications, alcohol, and strenuous exercise to minimize the risk of bruising. Discuss any medical conditions or allergies with your injector during the consultation.

Is there any downtime associated with dermal filler injections?

Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after treatment. However, it's common to experience mild swelling or bruising, which typically resolves within a few days.

Can I combine dermal filler treatment with other cosmetic procedures?

Yes, dermal fillers can complement other aesthetic treatments such as Botox injections, laser therapy, or chemical peels to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Who is a suitable candidate for dermal filler treatment?

Ideal candidates for dermal fillers are individuals who desire improvement in facial volume, contour, or fine lines, and who have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure. It's important to consult with a qualified and experienced practitioner to determine suitability and discuss treatment goals.