Temporary fillers
Dermatologist Dr. Sheetal Sapra of the Cosmetic and Laser Surgery in Oakville, Ontario is one of Canada’s top users of dermal fillers. He recommends temporary fillers, especially to first-time patients who may feel unsure about what to expect from this type of treatment. Dr. Sapra also feels that you can get the most out of temporary fillers if you also add Botox injections (for longer lasting results), or possibly laser resurfacing (to improve the texture of skin). “What we’re seeing is patients looking anywhere from 4 to 10 years younger, depending on the combination of treatments they receive,” says Dr. Sapra. Those kind of positive outcomes may explain why the number of non-surgical treatments being performed, like dermal fillers, is leaping about 100 percent a year. Hyaluronic acid
These commonly used fillers are formulated with hyaluronic acid (or HA), a type of sugar molecule that is a superstar when it comes to attracting water, up to 1000 times its own weight. When injected, wrinkles virtually disappear because water fills up the crevices. Good news/bad news: Because HA-based fillers feel soft and cushy in the skin, they’re especially good for cheeks and lips. You may get a bit of swelling and bruising at the injection site. If you want to look great for a big event, visit your doctor a week or two before. Longevity: Depending on the type of filler used, expect pleasing results for 4-8 months.
Names to know: Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm, Revanesse. Collagen
Collagen is something we have naturally in our skin to give it resiliency. It has been used widely since the early ‘80s for everything from acne scars to plumping up lips and wrinkles. Good news/bad news: Most dermal fillers made with collagen are derived from animal sources. You will need an allergy test before treatment. If you’re a vegan, this isn’t for you. Still, collagen is well liked because it causes less swelling so recovery time is minimal. Longevity: Depending on formulation, results may last up to one year. Names to know: Evolence, Evolence Breeze. Your own fat
There’s something very appealing about the idea of having fat removed from a trouble spot, say hips, for example, and then putting it anywhere you feel it’s needed. Good news/bad news: The results could not feel any more natural and there’s no chance of allergic reaction. But, ouch, a large needle is used so there’s more bruising, swelling and pain. As Dr. Sapra points out, “It’s unpredictable. The end result could last a while, or it could disappear quickly.” One more caveat: This is a more invasive procedure so you should have it done by a board certified plastic surgeon. As you age, gain/lose weight, your face changes. What appeared fine at age 43 might not be right for your 50-year-old face.
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Longer lasting fillers
For some people, the thought of having to make repeat visits to your doctor to maintain your wrinkle-reduced state is unappealing. If that’s you, a semi-permanent or permanent may be the way to go. That said, you’ll have to be sure you like your look because it will be with you for a long time. And remember, as you age, gain/lose weight, your face changes. What appeared fine at age 43 might not be right for your 50-year-old face. |  | Poly-L-lactic acid
Not exactly a sexy sounding ingredient, is it? However, it has been used for more than 20 years by doctors in absorbable sutures. Then, some ‘bright light’ discovered that when placed under the surface of the skin, it caused new collagen to be produced, adding volume. Wrinkles smoothed out and the contours of the face plumped up so it appears full and youthful. Good news/bad news: For women not ready for a facelift, this filler may be a best bet. As we age, we lose volume (think a grape, shrinking into a raisin over time) and this type of product is ideal for putting it back. The process takes time, a minimum of three sessions (about six weeks apart) and its initial cost is high (about $5000 for full face), but there’s very little down time. The injections take just 20 minutes and swelling takes two to three days to go away. Longevity: Approximately two years, then one treatment for maintenance. Name to know: Sculptra, new in Canada spring 2007, used in Europe since 1999. Calcium hydroxylapatite
This thick filler is an option for patients who need deep wrinkles, jowls or even botched nose jobs treated. It uses a version of the natural cementing material that is found in teeth and bone. Good news/bad news: Because of its thick consistency, it is injected with larger needles that may cause more bruising than other types of filler. There is a chance of lumpiness, but you get immediate results after just one treatment. It appears to work well on nasolabial folds (the ones that go from the nose, along to the mouth). Longevity: Two years or more. Name to know: Radiesse. | KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Dr. Sapra and his colleague, Dr. Julie Khanna, plastic surgeon and director of the Institute of Cosmetic and Laser Surgery in Oakville, Ontario, have seen the problems that can befall patients who don’t choose who is doing their procedure carefully. “It’s distressing to see how easy it is for someone to call themselves a cosmetic surgeon,” says Dr. Khanna. “Someone can do that without having proper qualifications.” As with any purchase, it’s buyer beware. With that in mind, Drs. Sapra and Khanna offer some wise shopping tips for those looking for a surgical or non-surgical procedure. - Don’t go bargain hunting. Yes, you do get what you pay for. In this case, you want experience and a professional who understands skin and has the knowledge and the facilities to deal with any complications.
- See a qualified professional. That means a board certified cosmetic or plastic surgeon, or a dermatologist. In some cases, it may be a family doctor, but the key is that this person should devote a substantial amount of his/her practice to these cosmetic procedures. A hair salon or a spa is not the appropriate place to have them done.
- Prepare a written list of questions. You’ll want to know how much the procedure will cost, down time, risks, maintenance and post-procedure
- Ask to see before and after photos. Every practitioner has a style or certain way of injecting. The proof of their skill lies with the end results.
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