Dermal Fillers

Inevitably we all gradually age, as our skin changes, we look older, more tired, and less friendly. Many people are concerned about the way lines and wrinkles make them look and feel. To rejuvenate the face and revive confidence, we may suggest dermal filler treatment. Alphonso Barrera now offers Dermal Fillers that are both painless and safe. You can give our Houston, TX office a call today at (713) 468-5200 to schedule a consultation and learn whether you are a candidate for facial fillers!

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are substances that we inject into soft tissue to reduce the signs of aging. The products we use are formulated around the ingredient of hyaluronic acid. This organic chemical is present in our skin, our joints, and other body parts. Its role is to provide hydration and cushioning by binding to water molecules. As such, hyaluronic acid is an excellent substance to use for wrinkle-reduction.

Dermal Filler Before And After

Benefits of Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers offer a number of benefits. The primary advantage of the treatment is that it is safe and painless. Hyaluronic acid is made by the body so injecting it into tissue does not provoke an adverse response. Injections are comfortable and convenient and patients appreciate the immediate results they see after receiving dermal fillers. It may seem as though the temporary nature of dermal filler treatment is a disadvantage. However, we propose that this aspect of treatment is ideal for managing the dynamic nature of aging.

Dermal Fillers vs. Botox

Dermal fillers and Botox are complementary treatments. Both revolve around the rejuvenation of the skin but each acts in a unique way. The way that Botox works is by minimizing the muscle movements that contribute to dynamic wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles are those that typically become visible during facial expression such as squinting or frowning. Over time, these lines become permanent. Dermal fillers do not act on muscles, they act within the soft tissue to enhance the volume of the skin.

Restylane is a line of hyaluronic dermal fillers that can be used to correct a number of problems. These fillers are commonly used around the nose and mouth, in the mid-face, under the eyes, and on the nose and jawline. Hand rejuvenation has also become a popular treatment using  Restylane.

Types of Restylane

Numerous Restylane products have been developed over the years to smooth away wrinkles, lift sagging skin, and increase tissue volume for a refreshed appearance. As technology has advanced, the sophistication of different fillers has improved. Restylane products that we use to help our patients feel their best include:

Restylane Lyft

This FDA-approved filler is formulated specifically to improve deep nasolabial folds, known as smile lines. The product can increase the volume in the cheeks for enhanced contours in the mid-face. The wrinkle-smoothing, tissue lifting effects of Restylane Lyft can last for a year or longer.

Restylane Silk

Restylane Silk was the first filler to gain FDA-approval for lip enhancement. This product can plump thin or deflated lips and reduce the appearance of the thin lines that develop around the mouth. Results of Restylane Silk are immediate and can last up to six months.

Restylane Defyne

Formulated for flexibility, Restylane Defyne provides lasting support for the lower face. Injections reduce the appearance of marionette lines and nasolabial folds without diminishing the natural movements common for the mouth area. Results from Restylane Defyne treatment are noticed right away and last up to 12 months.

Woman smiling with syringe next to her face.

The Filler Injections Process

Dermal filler treatment usually takes no more than 30-minutes, and throughout the whole procedure, it is all painless. First, we determine the goals of treatment and identify the treatment area. This can be as simple as discussing concerns about under-eye bags and determining which filler to administer into the tear trough area where the upper cheek meets the skin under the eyes. Restylane products do contain a local anesthetic that makes injections more comfortable. However, an additional numbing agent can be applied when requested. As injections are administered, we observe the effects of the selected filler and insert more as needed to achieve the desired result.

Is There a Recovery Period After Restylane?

Patients do not need to arrange downtime after dermal filler treatment. The side effects of injections are typically mild and short-lived. These include swelling, redness, and tenderness in the treatment area. Some patients notice a slight bruising. If bruising occurs, it can be covered with makeup as needed.

It is important that the treatment area is left alone for approximately 3 days after injections. During this time, the filler is still somewhat pliable. Pressing or massaging the area could alter the results of treatment.

Restylane Results

Immediate and lasting results can be achieved using Restylane. Patients appreciate the extent of rejuvenation that treatment provides. Looking younger and more refreshed leads to feeling better, and that makes us happy for our patients.

Patient Testimonials

“Thank you so much for the excellent way in which you treated Lisa. We very much appreciate your kindness, Lisa was so nervous and your gentle easy manner made her feel at ease.”

– Marilyn L.

“I hope you have been doing wonderful! I wanted to thank you again. You did an excellent job! I am so much more confident about how I look. I am no longer concerned about other people’s opinion. Thank you! You are a wonderful man with a great deal of passion for life. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!”

– Tiffany

Click here to view our patient reviews

Woman smiling and holding her face.

How Long Does Restylane Last?

Depending on the Restylane product used, results can last anywhere from 3 months to more than a year. Every person’s body metabolizes dermal fillers differently, but we can discuss an estimated expectation of results at the time of treatment.

What Are the Risks of Restylane?

Like other dermal fillers, Restylane products have been extensively tested for safety and efficacy. Complications are rare though there are minor risks of nerve damage, asymmetry, scarring, bleeding, and infection. Obtaining treatment from a licensed professional who is familiar with the nuances of the different dermal filler products significantly improves the likelihood of a satisfactory outcome.

Call our Houston Office For Dermal Fillers!

If you’re interested in learning more about Dermal Fillers in Houston, TX, please contact us at (713) 468-5200 to schedule a consultation with our practice. Or, you can learn more about dermal fillers by filling out the form in our contact page for an appointment with Dr. Alfonso Barrera,