Achieving a polished, rejuvenated look is no longer just about choosing a single treatment and sticking with it. Multimodal approaches are the common choice for 59 to 62 percent of patients, as they work synergistically to provide comprehensive effects. This allows clients to obtain results in both the short and long term. 

Among the most common combinations are dermal fillers and laser treatments, both of which are used for anti-aging. These are often layered because of their different onsets and ability to improve various skin issues. Find out why dermal fillers are commonly used alongside lasers for full facial rejuvenation.

What Dermal Fillers Do for Rejuvenation

Dermal fillers are injectable products usually based on hyaluronic acid that temporarily conceal signs of aging. These treatments can restore facial volume, improve contour, and soften deep lines as the skin’s collagen production decreases. Fillers can be used to address a wide range of issues, including wrinkles, sagging cheeks, and even facial asymmetries. 

The gel-like formula of dermal fillers provides structural scaffolding that supports the skin’s natural architecture. The body eventually breaks down the filler and removes it through the immune system, but the effects can last anything between six and 18 months. It all depends on the chosen filler and its viscosity. 

How Laser Treatments Differ

Fillers improve skin volume and structure by adding a gel solution, whereas laser treatments address the root cause. Procedures like Fraxel® CO2 create microscopic injuries in the skin that activate the healing response. This triggers collagen and elastin production from within, gradually reducing the visibility of fine lines, skin sagging, and acne scars. 

Different laser frequencies also address issues that fillers cannot immediately conceal. Treatments such as PicoWay® laser shatter pigment from within the skin, reducing the intensity of sun spots and uneven pigmentation. The effects of a professional laser treatment can last six to 24 months, depending on the technology used.

How Fillers Complement Laser Treatments

When laser treatments and fillers are combined strategically, they work together to offer longer-term, comprehensive results. Below are the benefits of including fillers in a laser treatment plan:

1. Immediate Volume Restoration

Laser treatments can improve the appearance of sunken cheeks, but there are several limitations. The first is that clients should be patient, as the new collagen fibers need time to form. The second limitation is that lasers don’t restore lost fat, which often results in sunken cheeks. This is why dermal fillers complement laser treatments, as they offer structural support and restore lost volume.

2. Reduced Reliance on Aggressive Settings

Many patients choose laser treatments with aggressive settings to compensate for potential structural deficiencies. This usually leads to significant discomfort and longer downtime. By choosing a multimodal approach with fillers, Dr. Ariel Ostad can use a lower yet more precise laser setting, resulting in faster recovery. The risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation also decreases, making the combined approach better for darker-skinned individuals.

3. Boosts Hydration and Luminosity

The “glass skin” trend is nowhere near over, and many are looking to obtain natural, hydrated-looking skin. Lasers alone can offer that effect, even if the new collagen production helps the skin look thicker and plumper. Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are hydrophilic, meaning they attract and bind moisture and enhance the results of laser treatments. When combined with a resurfacing laser that removes dead skin cells, this treatment can help patients unlock a natural glow. 

4. Balanced Facial Proportions

Laser treatments can tighten the skin and improve its thickness here and there, but there’s little control over the proportions. For example, patients can use lasers to improve skin quality, reduce pore size, and smooth the jowls, but they can’t strengthen a weak jawline or correct lip or nose asymmetry. Moreover, they are not as effective at adding volume to the cheeks. Fillers can be used, making them an asset for facial sculpting after a laser treatment. 

5. Extended Results Longevity

Laser treatments effectively stimulate collagen remodeling, but fillers help maintain the skin contour during the collagen-rebuilding phase. Lasers also improve the skin structure, increasing its ability to hold onto the filler. Using biostimulator fillers such as Sculptra® Aesthetic creates a dual collagen boost, with both procedures extending each other’s longevity. This leads to fewer maintenance treatments in the long term, making it a suitable choice for busy individuals. 

The Matter of Timing with Fillers and Laser Treatments

Timing is essential for obtaining the desired results, but most plans differ based on the patient’s goals. A waiting period is recommended regardless of which comes first, leaving two to four weeks between them to allow the skin to heal. 

Laser treatments come first when the goal is skin resurfacing and texture correction. This is usually the choice when the signs of aging are mild. However, if volume loss is the primary concern, some opt for the filler-first approach. This route is less conventional, but effective when you can’t wait weeks for the extra volume.

Get Your Facial Rejuvenation Treatment Today!

Dermal fillers and laser treatments offer a multi-layered approach for facial rejuvenation. Each service makes up for what the other may not be able to offer, working in harmony to offer both immediate and long-term results. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Ariel Ostad today to get a customized treatment!

For more information about full facial rejuvenation using dermal fillers and laser treatments, contact Dr. Ariel Ostad at 212-517-7900. He can create a customized treatment plan based on your goals. Feel free to fill out the online contact form, and we will get in touch with you shortly.