Fillers are used in plastic surgery to smooth wrinkles, soften creases, or restore volume such as in plumping the lip and enhancing youthful appearance of the face. Fillers are gel-like substances that are injected into or just beneath the skin. There are several different types of fillers in plastic surgery:
Hyaluronic acid (e.g Restylane®, Juvederm®, Belotero®): HA is a naturally present substance in human skin that is used to keep facial skin plump, smooth, and hydrated. HA lasts 6 to 12 months or longer before it is absorbed.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse®): Calcium Hydroxylapatitie is naturally present in our body and is thicker than hyaluronic acid. This filler stimulates collagen formation and is used to correct deeper wrinkles and lines. It lasts up to 12 months or longer.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (Sculptra®): PLLA is biocompatible synthetic substance that lasts up to 2 years before it is absorbed and is used for correction of even deeper facial wrinkles. This filler also stimulates natural collagen production under the skin to build volume and contour.
