Choosing the Right Dermal Fillers
With so many dermal fillers to choose from, how do I know which ones are right for me?
Hi, my name is Kristen Hansen. I am a registered nurse, the owner of Uptown Medispa and the chief educator at the Edunn Institute for Excellence in Aesthetics.
The Correct Dermal Filler
Choosing the right dermal filler to complement a patient’s anatomy and give them a “WOW” result is a complex series of decisions. In the United States market there are many different dermal fillers to choose from. The primary brands are Juvéderm, Restylane, Belotero Balance and Revanesse. Each filler has a chemical structure that we refer to in the aesthetics industry as rheology. Rheology refers to the cross-linking of hyaluronic acid molecules within the filler, its level of flexibility, as well as its viscosity and strength. A strong understanding of facial anatomy, including bone structure, muscle, and fat pad locations, locations of blood vessels, and nerves and patient lifestyle all go into your injector choosing the right filler.
Anatomy
Patient anatomy is unique to each individual. When dermal filler is used strategically to restore anatomy patients are often surprised at how much filler is used in comprehensive facial correction. One syringe of dermal filler is about the volume of a medium sized blueberry. Often, in order to achieve a result that meets patient expectations, multiple syringes of one or more types of dermal filler must be used.
Technique
When filler is used in isolated areas the results can appear artificial or look “weird”. For example, the dreaded “duck lips.” When treating lips for a natural correction, your injector will likely recommend supporting the corners of the mouth, the nasolabial folds, and an area of the mid cheek called the pyriform aperture. By volumizing the lips and supporting the surrounding structures a beautiful natural result is achieved.
Experience
A knowledgeable and experienced RN injector will understand that different fillers are designed to be placed in particular areas of the face. By understanding the science behind dermal filler and the anatomy of each patient, a skilled injector is able to restore anatomical features that have been broken down by the aging process. When done well, this leads to a flawless and natural result. At Uptown Medispa, all of our nurse injectors are extensively trained in the areas of proper patient assessment, filler technique and facial anatomy.