Dermal Fillers

Injectable Dermal FillersThere are many different types of soft tissue fillers or injectables available. Each filler has unique characteristics that make it ideal for use in certain face areas to achieve specific results.

Dr. Pirani uses only the best products and safest techniques to achieve natural-looking results. As one of Toronto’s most knowledgeable and well-versed injectable specialists, he has served on advisory boards for both Allergan and Galderma. Allergan produces BOTOX® and the JUVÉDERM® family of facial fillers. Galderma produces DysportTM and the Emervel® and Restylane® facial filler lines.

Dr. Pirani uses a combination of products to achieve the best and most natural-looking results. As an experienced injection specialist, Dr. Pirani uses JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®, Perlane®, and Emervel® product lines.

The combination of JUVÉDERM® dermal filler and BOTOX® treatments is known as a SOFT LIFT™. Dr. Pirani offers this unique, completely non-surgical facial rejuvenation technique.

Remember that hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in your body so that it will metabolize over time. On average, injectable fillers can last 6 to 18 months, depending on where they are placed.

Here Are Some Common Lifespans Of Injectable Fillers

• Lips: Lips have the shortest lifespan when it comes to dermal fillers because of how much we move them. All of the movement makes you metabolize the filler faster than other areas, which typically means it will last about 6 months.
• Under Eyes: Under the eyes, the filler can last longer, up to a year.
• Smile Lines: These lines should last about as long as your lips would, about 6 months.
• Cheeks and Midface: This area will have the longest lifespan, ranging from 9 months to 18 months.

Here Are Steps That You Can Take To Help Keep Your Filler Lasting Longer

• Limiting Sun Exposure: UV rays that damage your skin can also damage your dermal fillers. Make sure you wear adequate sun protection when outside.
• Skin Care: To maintain your skin, you should also make sure that you use facial washes and creams at home.

Life and Stress: Sometimes, even stress can shorten the lifespan of a dermal injection.

Each case is unique, so we offer various fillers to ensure the best possible results. Some of the factors we consider when choosing the right filler for you are which part of the face is receiving the filler, what look you are trying to accomplish, how long you would like the filler to last, and whether you have any allergies. Dr. Pirani consults with his patients to determine which combination of products, such as the dermal filler JUVÉDERM, will help them achieve the desired results.

Natural-looking results are achieved with the best products and safe techniques. Dr. Pirani is renowned for his skills as an injectable specialist. Botox and JUVÉDERM producers Allergan, Dysport, Emervel, and Restalyne producer Galderma have trusted him on their advisory boards. He uses a combination of these quality filler products to give his patients a fresh and youthful look.

Although he is a licensed plastic surgeon, not every procedure requires surgery. Combining JUVÉDERM with Botox is a technique known as a soft lift that rejuvenates the face without requiring invasive surgery. This is a unique way to look as young as you feel.

You may experience small swelling and/or bruising for a few days. Many individuals return to work immediately after their soft tissue filler procedure. If you do experience some bruising, it can almost always be concealed with makeup. Depending on the area injected and the facial filler used, results can last between 6 to 12 months.

Dermal fillers are generally well-tolerated, with most patients reporting only mild discomfort during the procedure. A numbing cream may be applied beforehand to ensure a comfortable experience. The filler also contains a numbing agent, which helps reduce further discomfort during the injection process.

A typical dermal filler appointment takes about 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated. It’s a relatively quick procedure with minimal downtime.

While results are visible immediately, touch-up sessions may be recommended in the future to maintain the desired look. The frequency of follow-up treatments depends on the type of filler used and the specific area being treated, as some areas may require touch-ups sooner than others.

For personalized guidance and to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs, Dr. Pirani at Toronto Plastic Surgery Center will discuss the ideal approach during your consultation.

Some results from the dermal filler will be immediately noticeable, but you could be swollen for a few days, making it more difficult to know exactly what your results look like. Since you are injecting the filler into your skin, it does not have to build up over time to see your results, so you should see some results pretty quickly.

Some patients swell more than others after receiving their dermal filler injections, so you can expect to have some swelling for up to a week after your procedure. You can expect to see accurate results about two weeks after the injection when the swelling has gone down and the hyaluronic acid is able to do its job.

JUVÉDERM is a proven solution to reducing the appearance of fine lines, adding volume to the cheeks, and filling out wrinkles. Results can last up to a year, with the need for less filler in future treatments. Compared to other filler products, JUVÉDERM is a smooth consistency gel that is malleable, giving a natural-looking result. It works by temporarily adding volume to the site by holding in moisture. You can also expect a relatively quick and minimally invasive procedure, making it ideal for individuals with busy lives.

When patients receive optimal treatment for wrinkles and folds, they can expect results that last between 6 months and a year.

Yes, dermal fillers can be combined with common combinations, including Botox or other neurotoxins for wrinkle reduction, as well as treatments like chemical peels or microneedling to help improve your skin texture and tone. These combinations can provide a more comprehensive rejuvenation with minimal downtime.

Dr. Pirani will carefully evaluate your goals during your consultation and recommend a customized treatment plan that may include dermal fillers alongside other procedures for a harmonious, balanced result.

Because dermal fillers are made using hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body, there are few risks associated with the treatment. In fact, fillers have been continually proven safe over the last few years. The injection will gradually metabolize in a completely safe way. Over time, all major filler makers have been approved, and their safety records have been proven.

If you are concerned about the safety of dermal fillers, call Dr. Pirani’s office today to set up a consultation. He will be able to answer all of your questions and concerns directly, ensuring that you feel confident about your procedure before having it done.

JUVÉDERM® is a hyaluronic acid-based facial filler produced by Allergan Inc.  There are several different products within this line, which differ based on particle size, consistency, and longevity of results. Each product has specific indications and benefits. The new XC products have lidocaine pre-mixed with the filler for increased comfort. This product line includes:

• JUVÉDERM® Refine™
• JUVÉDERM® Forma™
• JUVÉDERM® Ultra™ XC
• JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus™ XC
• JUVÉDERM® VOLUMA™
• JUVÉDERM® VOLIFT®
• JUVÉDERM® VOLBELLA®

Restylane®, Perlane®, and Emervel® are hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers produced by Galderma Inc. These lines include several different products, which differ based on particle size, consistency, and longevity of results. Each product has specific indications and benefits. Galderma Inc.’s new ‘L’ products have lidocaine pre-mixed with the filler for increased comfort. 

These product lines include:

• Restylane-L™
• Restylane Fine Lines™ and Restylane Fine Lines-L™
• Perlane® and Perlane-L™
• Emervel Lips®
• Emervel Volume®
• Emervel Deep®
• Emervel Classic®
• Other Common Soft Tissue Fillers Available On The Market Include:
• Esthélis™
• Fortélis™
• Selphyl®
• Sculptra®
• Radiesse®

While there’s no “ideal” age to start, many patients begin getting fillers in their late 20s to early 30s to prevent or correct the appearance of fine lines and volume loss. The age you start ultimately depends on your aesthetic goals.

You can apply makeup about 4 to 6 hours after receiving dermal fillers. However, to prevent the filler from shifting, be gentle and avoid pressing too hard on the treated areas.

Yes, dermal fillers can be used to smooth out and fill in depressed acne scars, providing a more even skin texture and appearance.

Long-term side effects are rare when a qualified professional administers dermal fillers. Over time, some patients may experience changes in how their filler looks, but most effects can be managed or reversed if needed.

Dermal fillers are designed to enhance your natural look and should not significantly affect facial expressions when done correctly. Fillers add volume, but they do not freeze muscles as Botox does.

Yes, men can get dermal fillers, and it’s becoming more common. The treatment approach may differ slightly to maintain masculine facial features, such as focusing on enhancing the jawline or reducing under-eye hollows.

While allergic reactions to fillers are rare, some patients can develop sensitivity to the ingredients. This is more common with non-hyaluronic acid-based fillers. If you have any concerns, always consult with your doctor.

Significant weight loss or gain can affect the appearance of fillers, particularly in areas like the cheeks or jawline. It’s important to maintain a stable weight for more consistent results.

Yes, dermal fillers can be used to reshape the nose in a procedure called non-surgical rhinoplasty. This procedure does not involve surgery and can address issues like bumps, asymmetry, and minor contour irregularities.

It’s generally advised to wait 24 to 48 hours before engaging in strenuous exercise after getting dermal fillers to prevent swelling and movement of the filler.

Yes, fillers can improve facial asymmetry by adding volume to specific areas, creating a more balanced appearance.

Sun exposure doesn’t directly affect filler results, but UV damage can accelerate the aging process and may affect the skin’s overall appearance. Therefore, it is recommended that sunscreen be applied to protect the skin after treatment.

Yes, dermal fillers can restore volume to aging hands, reducing the appearance of prominent veins and tendons for a more youthful appearance.

It’s best to avoid alcohol, as well as blood-thinning supplements and medications (like aspirin or fish oil), before and after filler treatment to reduce the risk of bruising.

Smoking can lead to premature aging and affect the skin’s elasticity, potentially reducing the longevity of dermal fillers. Quitting smoking can help optimize the results of fillers and improve overall skin health.

Yes, fillers can be used to add volume and definition to the cheekbones, creating a more lifted and contoured facial appearance.

Yes, hyaluronic acid-based fillers can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This provides an added layer of security for patients unsure about committing to fillers.

Drinking alcohol before or after filler treatment can increase the risk of bruising and swelling. It’s generally recommended to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours post-treatment.

Yes, fillers can be used to add volume to the chin, improving the shape and profile of the face in a non-surgical chin augmentation procedure.

You can typically fly or travel shortly after receiving fillers, but it’s a good idea to wait at least 24 to 48 hours in case of swelling or bruising.

Yes, fillers can be injected into the temples to restore volume and create a more youthful, balanced facial appearance.

Stress itself doesn’t directly affect filler longevity, but stress-related habits like poor skincare or muscle tension could contribute to aging and thus affect overall skin health and appearance.

If you have an autoimmune disorder, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor before getting fillers. In some cases, there may be an increased risk of complications or reactions.

Yes, fillers can plump earlobes that have lost volume or become stretched from heavy earrings, restoring a youthful appearance.

Yes, fillers can be used to raise depressed scars, including those from injuries or surgery, making them less visible and improving overall skin texture.

Dermal fillers are designed to work beneath the skin, adding volume and smoothing wrinkles without targeting facial muscle movement. As fillers naturally dissolve, they are metabolized by the body. Regular maintenance treatments can ensure consistent results while preserving natural expressions.

Yes, dermal fillers can be used to soften horizontal necklines by restoring volume and smoothing the skin. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers are particularly effective as they provide hydration and improve skin texture in the treated areas.

Hyaluronic acid-based fillers attract and retain moisture, enhancing skin hydration and improving elasticity. While fillers primarily add volume, their hydrating properties can contribute to a more youthful and radiant appearance.

Yes, dermal fillers are an excellent option for correcting lip asymmetry. They can be precisely injected to balance proportions, enhance volume, and create a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Some types of fillers, such as Radiesse and Sculptra, stimulate collagen production. This helps improve skin texture, elasticity, and firmness over time, providing longer-lasting results beyond the filler’s immediate effects.

It’s advised to avoid facial massages or exercises in the treated area for at least 24-48 hours after filler injections. Excessive pressure can disrupt the placement of the filler. Once healed, normal activities can resume without impacting the filler’s results.

Yes, fillers can help improve the appearance of a gummy smile by adding volume to the upper lip, which helps cover more of the gums when smiling. In some cases, Botox may be used in combination for optimal results.

Dermal fillers can enhance skin elasticity by providing hydration and stimulating collagen production. However, overuse or incorrect placement can temporarily stretch the skin. Working with an experienced injector ensures natural-looking results while preserving skin integrity.

Dermal fillers can rejuvenate earlobes by adding volume to creased or sagging areas. They can sometimes also improve the appearance of stretched earlobe piercings, creating a smoother and more youthful contour; however, surgical correction is usually better for stretched earlobe piercings.