Once, cosmetic surgery was the only option for wrinkle reduction. Today women and men in NY have an effective, nonsurgical alternative. Skin filler injections are a minimally invasive technique to restore lost volume and lessen wrinkles.

Dermal filler basics

Popular fillers fall into these categories:

• Hyaluronic acid (HA) – This substance occurs naturally in the human body, comprising eyeball fluid, and keeping joints lubricated. The HA used in dermal fillers is made in a lab, not animal sourced, reducing risk of allergic reaction. Each HA molecule binds with many times its own weight in water, boosting skin hydration and volume. Depending on the formulation, results last a few months to two years. Thinner HA fillers are ideal for lip augmentation, and treatment of fine lines around the mouth and eyes. Popular HA products include the Juvéderm and Restylane families of fillers, and Belotero.
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• Poly-L-lactic acid – This filler is for the “patient patient.” Treatment requires a series of injections. The biocompatible material is similar to dissolving sutures. Injections trigger a mild, controlled inflammatory response that stimulates generation of collagen. Skin becomes noticeably firmer within several weeks, and improvement lasts about two years. You may recognize this type of filler as Sculptra Aesthetic.
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• Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres (PMMA) – Tiny beads of calcium in a collagen gel base. Radiesse is an example of this type of filler. It is a good choice for areas where significant supplementation is needed and skin is not delicate. It adds immediate volume and creates a scaffold for skin that lasts up to five years.
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• Silicone – The decision to have permanent filler enhancement should be taken seriously. Only an experienced Board-certified dermatologist should perform the procedure.

Many options at Ariel Ostad MD PC

After a thorough consultation to understand your concerns, Dr. Ostad designs a customized treatment protocol. It may involve skin filler injections alone, or in combination with other rejuvenation techniques. In NY call (212) 517-7900.