There are many different facial fillers being used by plastic surgeons today with a variety of uses and applications. Navigating through the options can be tricky. This guide outlines the major injectables and fillers available and what they do for specific wrinkles, fine lines, and facial sculpting.



Collagen:

Collagen is one of the most recognizable names when it comes to fillers. It is a natural substance that occurs in the body, but what you may not know is that some surgeons choose to use collagen from bovines rather than humans. Both have essentially the same effect. They boost volume in the lips and smooth out wrinkles. If using a natural filler is important to you, collagen is the way to go, but be aware that results are extremely short-term and sometimes wear off in as little as a month.

Fat:

The other natural option available is a fat transfer. Fat is taken from an area of your body (that you won't miss) and placed in unwanted facial lines or used to plump up the lips. Fat fillers usually give great results and when performed by a skilled surgeon, the effects can last for up to a few years.

Botox:

Botox is an injectable that does not fill in wrinkles, but rather is a toxin that paralyzes the muscle which causes them. It is most commonly used for deep forehead furrows and crow's feet near the eyes. The results last up to six months, but it is important that a skilled surgeon performs the procedure. Improper use can make the face look "plastic," or in serious cases, it can damage nerves.

Sculptra:

This filler provides results that last for up to two years, but it is recommended that people receive multiple treatments in order to achieve full effectiveness. It can be used on large, gaunt areas such as the cheeks and beneath the eyes. Although it is a synthetic material, it is safe to use.

Restylane:

This filler is one of many hyaluronic acid based injectables. They can treat almost any area of the face from fine lines around the eyes to deeper folds near the nose and mouth. They generally last longer than collagen and are derived from substances found in human tissue.

Radiesse:

For wrinkles as well as scars, Radiesse is a calcium hydroxylapatite formula that smoothes out most unwanted facial lines. The results can last six months or longer, and it's very safe to use. It is not only non-toxic but non-allergenic as well. It is a good option for those who are very sensitive to chemicals.

ArteFill:

This brand of filler combines bovine-based collagen with a synthetic substance, PMMA, or synthetic polymethylmethacrylate microspheres. Currently it is only used to add volume to smile lines and the deep furrows around the nose, but results last up to five years and with repeated use will continually improve.

There are always new brands and advancements in injectables being developed. Be sure to discuss with your plastic surgeon which is best for your specific needs. Never undergo a cosmetic procedure without first knowing what is going into your body and the possible risks associated with it.