A major use for dermal fillers is to replace volume lost as we age. Intrinsic or “natural” aging usually begins in our mid-20s. This process is exacerbated by extrinsic factors, such as unprotected exposure to the sun’s rays. These external exposures contribute to premature aging. In the succeeding decades the loss of underlying fat makes our cheeks and eye sockets look hollow. Face shape changes.
There are many types of fillers or materials that may be injected into the face to restore a youthful shape. These injectables are versatile and may fill in sunken cheeks, chin, forehead, temples and other areas.
The fillers administered by Dr. Gerald Bock are effective and FDA approved. Since these fillers are either made up of naturally occurring substances or have been used in the body safely for decades, adverse reactions are minimized. These solutions are biocompatible. When injected they aren’t toxic or damaging to living tissues.
Additionally, Dr. Bock injects these solutions in a comfortable and safe manner with flexible cannulas. While these bendable tubes are as effective as needles, they are associated with less pain, and less risk of either bruising or necrosis when skin cells are irreversibly damaged. Generally, these tubes have a better safety profile than their more “traditional” counterparts.
You can assure whatever type of the many fillers with different characteristics available to address different goals is administered safely, with minimal side effects and minimal likelihood of experiencing unwanted effects.
Hyaluronic acid fillers are among the most common. If you’ve heard of Restylane or Perlane then you know this type of filler. HA is natural lubricant found in high concentrations in our joints and eyes. This gel-like substance may be injected to add volume to the cheeks and lips. It may also be used to correct signs of aging around the nose and mouth.
More recently the Juvederm family of HA-based dermal fillers released the FDA-approved Juvederm Voluma XC. It temporarily restores fullness to the mid-face, including the cheeks. The majority of those studied, in a clinical report submitted by Allergan to the FDA, saw improved cheek fullness that lasted for up to two years.
Poly-L-lactic acid fillers are increasingly popular. The California Skin & Laser Center uses Sculptra. You may know PLLA and not realize it. The material has been used for years in dissolvable stitches. Unlike permanent fillers, the body absorbs Sculptra. While absorbable, it is a long-lasting injectable. Sculptra Aesthetic reports, on average, three injection sessions over a period of a few months result in sculpting effects that last for more than two years. It replaces lost collagen in the mid- to lower-face and chin, adding volume to deep folds between and around the mouth and nose, and in the chin. Results are gradual and Dr. Bock has seen another benefit in addition to plumping up shallow areas: Sculptra improves the appearance of the skin’s surface, too.
There are many different types of dermal fillers for Stockton area residents. As new solutions are approved and become available on the market, experienced and knowledgeable specialists are nearby to select a safe and effective treatment plan built around you. Call Dr. Bock and his team at the California Skin & Laser Center on 209-751-4292 to schedule a consultation.
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