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As we age, our body’s natural collagen production decreases, making skin less elastic and more susceptible to wrinkles, fine lines, and prominent hollows. Due to a lack of hyaluronic acid production, skin can also become drier, thinner, and less able to repair itself. Dermal fillers involve injecting a gel substance that mimics your body’s naturally occurring HA into the skin to add volume and freshness back to your face.

Read on to learn more about how dermal fillers at Bay Area Plastic Surgery with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Leonard Gray can help you refresh your features and stop signs of aging in their tracks.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers have various consistencies of gel. When a surgeon introduces them to your skin with a blunt-tip cannula, these products can restore lost volume, smooth lines, and soften creases while enhancing facials contours and plumping thin lips.

At Bay Area Plastic Surgery, Dr. Gray uses several different kinds of fillers.

• Belotero: Belotero is a thinner consistency than other fillers, making it perfect for areas with delicate skin, such as your lips or tear troughs.
• Radiesse: A filler comprised of tiny calcium-based microspheres that imitates the natural calcium in your bones.
• Juvéderm: As one of the most popular dermal fillers, Juvéderm consists of hyaluronic acid and can work wonders to improve hollow areas on the face. What makes Juvéderm even more outstanding is its ability to stimulate your body’s natural collagen and elastin production, further protecting your skin against aging.

What to Expect During Your Filler Treatment

It all starts with a conversation. Dr. Gray will first discuss your areas of concern and what you expect from your results. Together, he will review your any medications you use, allergies, and medical history to ensure no possibility of complications. He may also take some pre-treatment photographs. When you have both agreed on your treatment plan, Dr. Gray will clean your skin and possibly apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area before injections. Then, Dr. Gray will inject a precise amount of filler strategically below your skin’s surface.

After treatment, you can expect some minor redness and swelling, along with mild bruising around the injection site. These symptoms will resolve on their own within a few days, but you can cover any bruising with makeup if necessary. There is no downtime associated with dermal fillers, so you may go back to your typical activities immediately after your treatment.

How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?

On average, dermal filler results can last between eight and 12 months, depending on your product choice and your metabolism. However, your results are only as good as the skill and experience of the surgeon who injects the filler. Choosing the right injector is pivotal to achieving the longevity of your results. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Gray has the technique and anatomical knowledge to help you achieve a natural transformation that respects your facial proportions while still delivering the long-lasting results you’re looking for.

Dermal Fillers in the Bay Area

Dr. Gray is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience conducting surgical procedures on the body, breasts, and face. His passion for patient education and meticulous attention to detail has made him a first-choice plastic surgeon in the Bay Area.

For more information on dermal fillers with Dr. Gray at Bay Area Plastic Surgery, don’t hesitate to call (628) 265-0218 or fill out an online form to schedule your consultation today!