What are Injectable Fillers?
Injectables, also known as facial or dermal fillers, are soft-tissue materials which can help fill in lines and creases, temporarily restoring a smoother, more youthful-looking appearance. At your initial consultation, Dr. Chopra will evaluate your face to determine which injectable filler is right for you.
As we age, our faces begin to show the effects of gravity, exposure to environmental conditions such as the sun, and many years of facial muscle movement such as smiling, chewing and squinting our eyes. The underlying tissues that keep our skin looking youthful begin to break down, often leaving smile lines, crow's feet, or facial creases over the areas where muscle movement occurs.
One of the most important facts to remember about injectable fillers is that the results are not permanent. Injected material is eventually metabolized by the body. You should not expect the same long-lasting results that may be gained from cosmetic surgery. Age, genetic background, skin quality, and lifestyle all play a role in the filler's staying power.
Types of Injectables
There are many different injectable fillers currently available and approved by the FDA which Dr. Chopra can skillfully inject into your face and/or lips with great precision. Some of these include:
- Juvederm
- Restylane
- Sculptra
- Radiesse
Also make sure to ask Dr. Chopra and his staff about the Liquid Facelift procedure, a non-surgical procedure which consists of a variety of injectables and can be used as an alternative to a common facelift.
The Consultation Process
Each of the above listed injectable fillers have specific indications, composition, and uses. During your consultation, Dr. Chopra will evaluate your aesthetic goals, carefully analyze your face, and assess your medical history to determine the appropriate filler for you. Whether you would like to correct fine lines and wrinkles, lift and support facial contours, or create fuller lips, Dr. Chopra will carefully work with you to find the appropriate product to meet your needs. In addition, to get the best results from your proposed treatment, it may be important to refrain from certain medications and supplements which may thin your blood prior to your filler treatment. Dr. Chopra will go over these during your consultation to get you ready for your treatment.
The Procedure
Dr. Chopra strives to make all procedures pain-free. Thus all patients are first treated with numbing cream on the areas to be injected. Small dental anesthetic injections (nerve block injections) can also be given to totally anesthetize the areas to be treated to make the patient completely comfortable. Treatment with filler materials is then meticulously performed and takes less than one hour depending on the areas treated. Dr. Chopra uses specialized advanced techniques, along with his surgical artistry, to achieve amazing results.
What is the Recovery Time?
There is minimal recovery or downtime associated with injectable fillers. You may experience mild swelling, redness, and tenderness temporarily after the procedure. Dr. Chopra will give each patient individualized instructions based on the treatments they receive.
If you have any questions regarding injectable fillers, or wish to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chopra, please call (310) 858-1787.