Facial fillers are a method of filling specific parts of the face with materials through injection or surgery to improve facial contours and restore facial fullness. As we age, facial tissues gradually lose elasticity and fat, leading to facial depressions, sagging skin and other phenomena. Facial filler technology provides an effective solution for those who seek facial rejuvenation or improvement of facial defects. This article will discuss in detail the basic concepts of facial fillers, common methods, suitable populations and precautions, to help readers fully understand this cosmetic method.
1. Basic concepts of facial filling
Facial filling is a non-invasive or minimally invasive cosmetic technique that injects filling materials into specific areas of the face to improve depressions, wrinkles or other facial defects, thereby creating a more three-dimensional and natural facial contour. As we age, facial fat, collagen, hyaluronic acid and other substances will gradually be lost, causing wrinkles, sagging and depressions on the face. Facial filling technology uses external supplements to restore these lost contents, improve facial lines and shape, and make the face appear younger and more energetic.
2. Commonly used materials for facial filling
There are many types of facial filler materials. Common filler materials include hyaluronic acid, collagen, fat, poly-lactic acid and hydroxyapatite . Different filler materials have different properties and applicable ranges. People seeking beauty can choose appropriate filler materials based on their personal needs and the doctor's advice.
Hyaluronic acid (hyaluronic acid)
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that exists naturally in the skin, joints and eyeballs. It has good moisturizing and elasticity restoration effects. Hyaluronic acid filling materials are widely used in facial filling, especially to improve wrinkles, nasolabial folds, tear troughs and other areas.
Advantages : natural effect, short recovery period and lower risk.
Disadvantages : The effects are short-lived and usually require replenishment every 6 to 12 months.
autologous fat
Autologous fat filling is the process of extracting fat from other parts of the patient's body (such as the abdomen, thighs, etc.), injecting it into the face after processing. Since it is autologous material, the rejection reaction of fat transplantation is almost zero, and the effect is natural.
Advantages : good long-term effect and almost no rejection reaction.
Disadvantages : The survival rate of fat is unstable, and if it is absorbed more, multiple fillings may be required.
Collagen
Collagen is one of the main components of the skin. The collagen used for filling mostly comes from animal sources or artificial synthesis. Its function is to restore the thickness and elasticity of the skin and reduce facial depressions.
Advantages : Natural effect, suitable for fine wrinkles.
Disadvantages : It will be absorbed by the human body and needs to be replenished regularly.
Poly L-lactic acid (PLLA)
Poly-L-lactic acid is a biodegradable synthetic polymer that gradually improves facial contours by stimulating the regeneration of collagen in the skin. It is often used for deeper wrinkles and sculpting of facial contours.
Pros : The effects last longer and can gradually improve skin texture.
Disadvantages : The effect is slow and usually requires 1 to 2 injections to be effective.
Hydroxyapatite
This material is a bone-like mineral that is often used to sculpt facial structures, especially areas that require greater support, such as the chin and cheekbones.
Advantages : Long-lasting effect and can provide strong support.
Disadvantages : It needs to be implanted surgically and has a long recovery period.
3. Suitable groups for facial fillers
Facial fillers are suitable for a variety of people, mainly for the following groups of people:
Those with more obvious facial wrinkles and fine lines
As we age, our skin loses elasticity and wrinkles and fine lines appear on our face, especially around the eyes and mouth. Facial fillers can effectively alleviate these problems and restore skin smoothness.
Those with obvious facial depression
Some people are born with sunken faces, or as they age, their facial fat is gradually lost, resulting in unclear facial contours. Filling can improve facial depressions and enhance the three-dimensional effect of the face.
Sagging or loose skin
As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and areas such as the chin, cheekbones, and temples may sag. Facial fillers can effectively enhance facial contours and restore a sense of firmness.
People with facial asymmetry
For patients whose faces are asymmetrical or whose faces are obviously sunken in certain areas, facial fillers can improve the asymmetry through precise injections to achieve facial balance and coordination.
4. Effects and risks of facial fillers
Facial fillers can significantly improve facial contours and restore a youthful look, however, any cosmetic surgery or treatment has its own risks and side effects, and facial fillers are no exception.
Effect
The effect of facial fillers is usually immediately visible. The filled areas are noticeably fuller and the facial contours are more harmonious, especially for wrinkles, tear troughs, nasolabial folds and other problems. The effect is obvious. Through filling, the overall temperament of the face is improved, and the recovery period is usually shorter.
Risks and complications
Although facial filler is a minimally invasive surgery, there are also some potential risks. Common complications include allergic reactions, infection, uneven fillers, swelling, bruising , etc. Improper selection of filling materials, inaccurate injection techniques, improper postoperative care and other factors may lead to unsatisfactory results or complications.
Maintenance time
Different filling materials have different durations. Hyaluronic acid, collagen, etc. usually need to be supplemented regularly, while autologous fat transplantation and poly-L-lactic acid are relatively long-lasting. However, fat absorption is unstable and the effect will vary. Generally speaking, the effect lasts for about 6 months to 2 years.
5. Postoperative care of facial fillers
Postoperative care is crucial to the effectiveness of facial filling. Good care can effectively reduce the occurrence of complications and prolong the duration of the filling effect.
Avoid strenuous activity
Avoid strenuous exercise after surgery, especially avoid touching the filled area to avoid swelling or displacement of the filler.
Keep it clean
Keep your face clean to prevent infection. Avoid touching the injected area with your hands after surgery. Also be careful to avoid excessive face washing or rubbing of the filled area.
Follow-up visit on time
Follow up with your doctor as required after surgery to observe changes in the injection area and resolve any problems that may arise in a timely manner.
Avoid high temperature environment
Avoid activities such as saunas and hot baths within a few days after surgery to avoid affecting the stability of the filler.
Beauty Encyclopedia Tips:
Facial fillers are a common cosmetic procedure that can effectively improve facial depressions, wrinkles and other problems, and restore facial fullness and three-dimensionality. It is crucial to choose the right filling materials and techniques, and decisions should be made based on personal needs and the doctor's advice. At the same time, postoperative care is also very important, as it can help maintain the effect and reduce risks. When choosing facial fillers, please make sure to choose a regular medical institution and an experienced doctor to ensure safety and maximize the effect.