As we age, the skin loses elastin and collagen, and our faces lose volume due to changes in the bone and dropping of fat pads. As a result, we develop more lines and wrinkles as well as sagging skin and the development of jowls. Many of these changes are due to a decrease in the body’s production of Hyaluronic Acid (HA), which is a large part of what keeps skin looking healthy and youthful. Dermal fillers are HA products that are injected directly into areas that are lacking in the body’s natural HA. By replacing HA in these areas, volume is replaced and fine lines and deeper wrinkles are smoothed over and the formation of new lines and wrinkles are prevented.

Dermal filler is an injectable treatment to address common issues that are associated with aging of the face related to loss of volume and decreased skin elasticity. Common areas treated include the cheeks, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, jaw and chin. As well, dermal filler can be placed in the lips to add volume and hydration. Placing filler in these areas helps to add contour to the face and soften the lines and wrinkles.

Remember, this is a medical procedure and while rare, dermal fillers can inadvertently be placed in a blood vessel. This causes a vascular occlusion and can result in stroke, vision loss, infection, and necrosis of the skin. The key to managing vascular occlusions is prevention and early recognition and treatment. This is discussed in detail at your consultation and during the consent process. Vascular occlusion needs to be managed by prompt recognition and dissolving of the filler. Other risks include pain, bleeding and bruising, as well as risks of allergy and infection.

Some patients are not ideal candidates for dermal fillers due to associated medical conditions or medications. If any of the above apply to you, please reach out before your appointment. Allergy to Lidocaine Allergy to Hyaluronic Acid Autoimmune disease (please consult with your specialist prior to treatment to ensure you are not considered to be in a “flare”) Recent vaccine within 2 weeks of treatment Active infection Recent dental work within 2 weeks of treatment Anticoagulation (blood thinner medication) – please check with your prescriber to ensure you are able to stop this medication prior to treatment Under age 21

You will see immediate results from your dermal filler treatment. Keep in mind that you may need more than one syringe or treatment session to achieve your desired effect. Over the next few weeks the results will start to take shape and the filler will settle in beautifully with your skin.

No! At Renewing Confidence Medical Aesthetics, we take a conservative approach and start with low dosing that can be adjusted over time to achieve your desired result.

To reduce the likelihood or severity of bleeding and bruising, it is recommended to avoid the following for 2 days before your treatment. Please check with your prescribing practitioner before stopping any prescription medication. Alcohol NSAIDs (i.e Advil, Aleve) Aspirin or prescription blood thinning medications Vitamin E Other supplements that may increase the risk of bruising If you will be having a lip filler treatment and you have had oral herpes simplex (cold sores) in the past, please have your primary care provider prescribe anti-viral medication to take a few days before-hand.

Tenderness at the injection sites can last for a few days Temporary swelling, lumps & bumps can last for a few days as can the sensation of “firmness” that will usually soften and settle in the next few days to weeks. Bruising is common and can last a few days. If bruising worsens or the color of the bruise or surrounding skin changes color, please see below and contact the office.

Treatment with dermal fillers can be associated with complications related to vascular occlusion caused by inadvertent placement of filler into a blood vessel. If not recognized or managed in a timely manner, there can be serious consequences. This will be reviewed with you before your treatment during the consent process. Please never hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns related to your dermal filler treatment. Pain that worsens and does not improve with analgesics Swelling that worsens Bruising that worsens or spreads Skin that appears pale or patchy in color Blistering of the skin Notable change in temperature of the skin Fever greater than 100F

Avoid touching, rubbing or massaging the area Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours Try to sleep on your back for the first night of your treatment day No makeup for 24 hours (make sure pinpoint bleeding has healed over) Avoid alcohol or Ibuprofen/Motrin for 24 hours Avoid UV exposure & always use SPF 30 Wait 2 weeks for skincare treatments or back massage Avoid saunas and/or steam baths for 2 weeks You may apply ice as needed (alternate 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) You may apply warm heat/compress after 24 hours to areas of bruising Avoid salty, hot or spicy foods for 24-48 hours

While dermal fillers work to “turn back the clock” on your face, the results will not last forever. Most filler treatments will last 1-2 years, with lip filler treatments effect lasting 3-9 months typically.

Dermal fillers are charged per syringe, and based on your facial evaluation and desired results, we will help determine the best filler and number of syringes for you to reach your goals. Check filler (Voluma) is $750 per syringe, and all other areas are $650 per syringe. We do not save syringes for later use, but we do carry Volbella half syringes for mini lip plump treatments, at a cost of $400.