The fastest simplest way to correct, soften and reduce an acne scar is with Dermal Fillers. Dermal fillers are compounds injected into and under the surface of the skin to fill in wrinkles and scars or plump lips. They are easily administered and provide immediate results with minimal to no downtime.
The procedure can take place in a medical office or spa by the physician or nurse. A small fine needle is inserted under the skin and the filler, usually in a gel form, is injected into the lines or soft scars. Depending on the area treated and the type of filler used the results can last from a few months to a few years. The time it takes to complete the injections is anywhere from 10-60 minutes. Occasionally some patients will require a topical anesthetic for comfort prior to treatment.
There are many dermal fillers available on the market to correct lines and soft tissue depletion. Collagen based fillers can last from 3-6 months and require a skin test prior to treatment. Some animal based filler will also require skin testing prior to the procedure such as the filler ArteFill®. Hyaluronic acid based fillers may last from 6 months to a year. The main ingredient in these fillers is also found in the human body and does not require skin testing. The benefit being consultation and treatment can be done in the same day. The most popular type of hyaluronic acid fillers are Restylane® or Juvederm®. Longer lasting fillers are made of calcium hydroxyl apatite lasting up to a reported three years. The most popular of this type is Radiesse.
The most natural of the dermal fillers is fat. Known as autologous fat transfer, fat is removed from one area of the body with a needle and syringe and then "transferred" to the area in need. The fat is used to re-countour the face, fill in depressions or fill out wrinkles. Fat transfers can last up to 6 months. For results to last years the fat will need to be re-injected 3-4 times to the same area over a 6 month period to stave off re-absorption by the body.
Side effects from an injectible can include overcorrection, infection, bruising, and pain at the injection site and granuloma formation (an area of inflammation due to tissue injury that can be firm and ball like). Dermal fillers may not be able to completely correct the scar or skin issue. Dermal fillers are not permanent and repeat treatments are required maintain the corrections. With any of the dermal fillers, the results will always last longer in areas of non movement. |
