filler injections

The process of achieving a more youthful appearance has been improved in recent years with the use of filler injections to fill in lines and creases, primarily in the face. These fillers, usually collagen or fat, are injected beneath the skin to fill in creased or sunken areas of the face, including the lips and cheeks. Filler injection procedures are often performed along with other facial procedures, such as a facelift or laser skin treatment.

What to Expect
After Dr. Ratliff evaluates your skin and determines you are not allergic to the fillers, the collagen or fat is injected, using a fine needle. Several injections are done to make the skin as smooth as possible. You are awake for the procedure, often only having a local anesthesia applied.

Only minor discomfort should be expected. Swelling and redness will fade within a day or two. Results are immediate and can last several months, depending on several variables, including skin type, activity, and lifestyle. The procedure is often repeated several months or up to a year later. The main complication of this procedure is an allergic reaction to collagen. Other risks, such as infection, skin peeling, and abscesses are rare.

Learn more about Injectable Fillers from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.