This topic is one that is often too taboo to discuss because many people like to get filler done and don’t want anyone knowing about it. But helloooo, it’s 2020 people! We must keep up with the times. And if you think about it, everyone’s already doing it – whether you notice it or not.

While most fillers are made with hyaluronic acid (HA), it’s important to note that there are other more permanent fillers such as Radiesse (made with Calcium hydroxylapatite), Sculptra, and fat injections (which are a surgical option). These options should be considered with the associated risks in mind.

So what is most dermal filler made of? Dermal filler is essentially made up of hyaluronic acid – a molecule naturally found in the skin that can retain 1000x the amount of water than a normal epithelial cell. This is what gives your skin the plump and hydrated look that many (including myself) desire. This is also why you’ll find many topical skin products contain some form of HA in them. This is said to be a key molecule involved in the aging process because as we age, we lose volume in the face.

Don’t believe me? Grab a photo of yourself from 10 years ago. Notice a difference in the volume of your cheekbones? Have you found your smile lines have deepened or a hollowing underneath your eyes? This is all due to volume loss that takes place throughout the years. We are said to lose 1 tsp of volume per decade of life. And although that might not sound like a lot, your face may say otherwise.

Listen, I’m not here to tell you that you need filler. I’m all about embracing what you have and embracing the aging body. But, what I will say is that in my experience as a medical assistant and observing incredible physician assistants who inject filler, I know what just a little filler can do. I swear it has superpowers.

Not only is dermal filler created with HA, but it also contains something called G prime. Each filler contains a specific G prime that is a lifting agent which lifts the skin and the surrounding tissues. For example, filler that you would put in the cheeks is not a filler you would want in the lips. Each area has its own anatomy and should be treated accordingly. This is where the injector technique & choice of product comes into play. You want to make sure your aesthetic goals are in line with the injectors – otherwise you may not achieve the result you want.

While you can inject a majority of the face, there are what we call “no fly zones” that have a higher potential for a vascular occlusion (a blockage of a blood vessel) and have higher risk involved such as bruising, necrosis, and even blindness. It is also important to note that most fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if a complication were to arise. This is why it is important that no matter who you choose as your injector, you do your due diligence. Make sure your injector has years of experience in the field of cosmetic injectables & that they are a licensed medical provider.

Here is a simplified diagram of the “no fly zones” to be weary of:

While these zones are more risky to inject, depending on the provider you see you are still able to be treated in some of these areas such as the nasal region for liquid rhinoplasty, temple region, perioral region, nasolabial region, and infraorbital region (of course with the utmost precaution).

So how do you know if you’re ready for filler? While everyone’s journey is different, this really depends on your aesthetic goals. Are you trying to plump or define a specific area? Are you trying to replace areas of volume loss? Depending on your answer, then you’ll have a better understanding of what result you’re after.

Regardless of if filler is your forte or not, there is no denying the fact that it does wonders for combatting the aging process while keeping natural beauty in mind. And in this new age of medical aesthetics, it may be the treatment that makes you feel your most beautiful and confident self!

*I myself have not been treated with dermal filler & therefore cannot speak to the pain experience*