At a glance

Concerns: wrinkles, lack of facial fullness
Procedure: filler injected under skin via syringe
Time to complete: 30 minutes
Time to recover: virtually immediate
Result: significant and immediate
Longevity: 1 to 2 years
Risk: extremely low
Cost: $600 to $1000 depending on volume used

What are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers, such as Radiesse and Belotero, are chemicals that can be injected under the surface of your skin in order to add immediate volume to a target area. They are most commonly used on the face or hands to plumpen lips or cheeks, or to fill in wrinkles. Dermal fillers are gradually and harmlessly reabsorbed by your body over time.

Radiesse is a solution of Calcium Hydroxyapatite. Belotero is Hyaluronic Acid, which is a sugar molecule and a normal component of the skin.

How is the treatment performed?

Using a syringe, the filler is injected under your skin at the target site. As with any injection this process can be mildly painful; all fillers have built-in anesthetic with them that should help alleviate discomfort. The treatment process typically takes 30 minutes.

What is the recovery period like?

You will see an immediate improvement in the treatment areas, and depending on the product results can last 1 to 2 years. Supplemental treatments may be required after that time to achieve and maintain optimal results. Redness, swelling, and pain at the injection site may develop after treatment and will generally disappear within 72 hours. Bruising can be variable, from nothing to significant depending on your bruising tendency and your use of blood thinners. For a few days following your treatment you should avoid extreme temperatures and excessive UV exposure (like heat in a sauna or UV from a tanning salon). Serious complications are rare.

Are dermal fillers right for me?

You should not use dermal fillers if you have a known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients within the filler, have a disease affecting your immune system, or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Dr. Horton can recommend the appropriate treatment options to fit your needs during your consultation with him.