The Best Dermal Fillers for You in Richmond, VA
Fillers are used to volumize, plump, and smooth fine to moderate wrinkles. Fillers are commonly used to plump the lips (lip augmentation), soften the nasolabial folds and marionette lines, and restore lost volume in the cheeks and temples. They are most beneficial for patients in their 30s, 40s, and 50s who have mild to moderate skin laxity and are not ready for surgical correction.
Most injectable fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a water-loving sugar molecule that occurs naturally in our skin and joints. They have different viscosities and amounts of cross-linking, which make certain fillers appropriate for supportive, lifting action, and other fillers great for smoothing fine lines. Hyaluronic acid fillers are considered nontoxic and safe, as they can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase in cases of emergency. They are gradually broken down by the body over the course of months to years, depending on the filler.
The injector’s toolbox of fillers has grown significantly over the past decade. Since there are so many hyaluronic acid fillers on the market now, it is key to see a skilled injector who keeps current with education and training on the different products. We currently offer the following fillers and participate with Allē and Aspire® rewards.
Our Fillers
- Juvederm®
- Juvederm Ultra®
- Juvederm Ultra Plus®
- Juvederm Voluma®
- Juvederm Vollure®
- Juvederm Volbella®
- Restylane®
- Restylane-L®
- Restylane Lyft®
- Restylane Defyne®
- Sculptra®
What will I look like after the dermal filler is injected?
You will be able to see an immediate improvement after the filler is placed! Over the next 2 weeks, the filler will settle and integrate into your skin, any bruising that occurs will fade, and swelling will decrease. Bruising is an expected side effect of getting injections, but most patients have one or two small purple spots less than the size of a penny. However, if you are on any type of aspirin or blood thinner, you can expect to have larger bruises that take longer to go away. Swelling is typically minimal except for lip injections. When the lips are injected, expect to have noticeable swelling for 2 to 7 days. Icing can help reduce soreness and swelling.
How long will dermal fillers last?
This depends upon the product, the amount injected, and your body. Filler in and around the mouth lasts the shortest amount of time, from 3 to 9 months, because this area moves so much. Filler placed in the upper cheeks, temples, and tear troughs tends to last 9 to 24 months. Every patient has unique facial features, and, therefore, different needs, so we encourage you to start with a consultation to develop a personalized plan. We also recommend that all filler patients reevaluate and maintain their investment at 6-month intervals. You may inject multiple syringes initially to achieve your goals, but it is easier to maintain the filler by injecting one syringe every 6 months versus waiting 2 years and needing multiple syringes for a good correction.
Is it safe? Is there anything bad that could happen to me as a result of getting dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are very safe overall, with a low incidence of complications. Some amount of bruising is normal and to be expected after injections. The uncommon and more serious side effects include infection, bacterial growth on the filler, allergic sensitization to the filler, and vascular occlusion. If you notice any skin paleness, mottling, blistering, or have increasing pain at rest after the filler is injected, call our office immediately so that we can address possible complications as soon as possible.
The Results You Desire
The Respect You Deserve
Zinsser Plastic Surgery provides a level of patient care that is unparalleled. We blend compassion, skill and the latest surgical techniques to create a signature experience that is unique in our field.
Whether treating patients in their 20s or 70s, Dr. John Zinsser believes the keys to providing world-class results lie in a completely individualized approach to patient care. At Zinsser Plastic Surgery, you will be treated as the unique individual you are, and your treatment plan will be customized specifically for you.
What do you do to protect my safety?
Prior to the placement of facial fillers, your skin will be cleansed with a pre-surgical scrub containing chlorhexidine to remove surface bacteria. A hypochlorous acid solution is also used as a skin antiseptic during and after injections, which reduces the risk of infection. We keep Hylenex® on-site at all times in the event that filler needs to be dissolved. We also offer an after-hours emergency contact number.
What is the price range for dermal filler injections?
When you come in for your consultation and develop a plan, you will receive a quote personalized for you. Our fillers range from $450 to $725 per syringe, and the number of syringes recommended for you will depend upon your goals and the condition of your skin. For example, a patient in her 50s who needs a “makeover” correction may invest $4000 in her appearance.
The Results You Desire...Today!
Richmond, VA, Dermal Fillers FAQ
Dermal fillers can be used to treat various areas of the face with volume deficits. These areas include the cheeks, tear troughs, lips, marionette lines, nasolabial folds, and a few other select areas.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers attract water once they are administered into the dermis through a series of injections. This creates a more supple and hydrated appearance to the tissues, temporarily offsetting any volume deficiencies.
After the treatment plan is thoroughly discussed with our injector, she will then apply a topical numbing agent to ensure you are comfortable during the treatment. After 5-10 minutes, you will start to feel the effects of the numbing, and the procedure will begin. Treatment generally takes anywhere between 30-45 minutes, depending on the amount/placement of dermal filler.
Any discomfort associated with filler treatments is kept to a minimum with the use of topical lidocaine prior to injections and ice packs post-procedure.
In most cases, filler results are almost immediate. It is very common to experience swelling and bruising that may potentially last for up to 2 weeks after your treatment; however, this generally resolves within 72 hours for most patients.
Filler longevity can range anywhere between 6-24 months depending on the type of filler, patient’s metabolism, amount of filler, and other factors. Cheek filler, for instance, has been proven to last up to 2 years with optimal treatment, whereas lip filler is known to metabolize within a year’s time.
A comprehensive full-face filler treatment can be achieved through proper assessment and treatment with an adequate amount of product. Ultimately, dermal fillers will not replace the need for a facelift but can offer patients a non-surgical option for facial rejuvenation.