Filler Therapy "A Combination Approach"

Before and After Gallery

WHY USE THE COMBINATION APPROACH WITH FILLERS? AREN'T THEY ALL THE SAME?

At ADAS-Associates in Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery, our experience has shown that fillers have different properties. There has been such a boom of filler types that the cosmetic dermatologist can now be discriminate about what to use. For example, Juvederm™ or Restylane™ (which are derived from non animal synthesized hyaluronic acid (NASHA)) have a natural feel and can be used in the lip and forehead areas. Sculptra™ , on the other hand is a volumetric enhancer. It can define cheek bones nicely, is used to reduce acne scars, and fill in hollowed areas. Radiesse™ is a natural choice for the nasolabial folds and is used for our "Volume Lift" procedure. This product is derived from calcium hydroxyapetite spherules. It is a wonderful product to use because of its longevity and safety. It also can be artistically placed to treat aging hands, hollowed temples and to strengthen the appearance the jawline. Finally, we can harvest a patient’s own fat cells (Lipotransfer) to treat all of the areas mentioned above. Lipotransfer is an excellent way to treat the under eye circles and creases.

HOW OFTEN ARE TREATMENTS PERFORMED?

Filler treatments are performed when the cosmetic effects of the procedure have worn off or are less noticeable. On average, Juvederm™ treatments are repeated at 8-12 month intervals or sooner for touch up of the lip areas. Forehead lines, when combined with Botox Cosmetic™, can maintain their effects for up to a year (Fig. 2) When using Radiesse™ , studies have shown that this material can last up to two years in the nasolabial folds. Finally, Sculptra™ is usually administered in three patient sessions over a 12 week period. Each time, wrinkle reduction is retained at 25%. After three to five treatment sessions, results on average are thought to last for at least two years or more. This is very satisfying for our valued patients who want to get the most out of their investment.

HOW IS THE TREATMENT PROTOCOL?

Our providers ask you to discontinue blood thinners such as Vitamin E, St Johns Wort, and Aspirin beginning one week before treatment. Prior to the procedure, we will prescribe a topical anesthetic cream. This is left in place for 30 to 60 minutes. If we are treating the lip area, our providers will perform a virtually painless dental block. After numbing has been achieved, the filler agent is artistically placed into a predetermined area of your skin. Ice packs and pressure is used to minimize bruising. You can also start on Arnica before your filler treatment to minimize bruising. The overall treatment time takes between 10 and 45 minutes.

THIS WAS MENTIONED ABOVE BUT WHAT IS LIPOTRANSFER?

Lipotransfer refers to grafting of donor fat cells from your own body. This is carried out via liposuction. Self-harvested fat cells are referred to as autologous fat and are one of the most advantageous filler substances known to physicians. Facial wrinkles, acne scars, eyelid creases, posttraumatic scars, rejuvenation of aging hands, and irregularities in the breast, calf, and buttock area have benefited from the use of this technique.

HOW LONG DOES THE COSMETIC BENEFIT FROM LIPOTRANSFER LAST?

The survival of transplanted fat is sometimes difficult to quantify and is variable depending on the patient's medical status, age and the location of the actual injection. Some studies have demonstrated that fat graft survival in areas such as the forehead, cheek, and lips, may last up to six to twelve months. Repeat treatments tend to create a longer lasting cosmetic benefit.

WHAT ABOUT THE AFTERCARE?

Filler treatments may induce some degree of swelling or bruising with each procedure. Ice packs and/or pressure can minimize this unwanted complication. After your procedure, it is important that you massage the treatment areas using the "3-3-5" rule , e.g., massage the treatment area 3 times a day for 3 minutes for 5 days. In some instances, a medication called prednisone may be prescribed to decrease the duration and intensity of swelling. Discomfort after filler treatment is minimal and can be controlled with Tylenol™. Our Jacksonville, Fleming Island and Ponte Vedra Beach patients are also advised to use makeup to camouflage bruising, e.g. Jane Iredale™. (Bruising, when it occurs, resolves within a few days).

ARE THERE OTHER TREATMENTS WHICH COULD BE USED IN COMBINATION WITH FILLER TREATMENTS TO IMPROVE MY OVERALL APPEARANCE?

Sometimes, ADAS providers will combine filler treatments with other treatments, such as Botox Cosmetic™, Fraxel (re:store)™, Photodynamic Therapy or Fractional "DOT" CO2 laser to help filler treatments last longer.

For more information on filler therapy or to set up a consultation, click here or call 904-285-7546. Thank you and we look forward to helping you.

Before and After Gallery-(performed by ADAS providers)