Dermal fillers are one of the most popular procedures to target age-related skin imperfections, including wrinkles, sagging skin, and reduced facial volume. Studies show that nearly five million Americans regularly use them, and that number continues to grow.
If you’re considering trying dermal fillers, you likely have questions. Aruna Chakala, MD, at Plainsboro Princeton Medical Associates, with offices in Plainsboro Township and Monroe, New Jersey, offers fillers to his patients.
To make the process less intimidating, she’s written this blog to explain the steps, from your initial evaluation to the injections themselves, and post-procedure recovery. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a better understanding and hopefully feel more confident.
Before administering dermal fillers, Dr. Chakala completes a comprehensive consultation to assess whether you’re a good candidate. She reviews your health history, asks about your goals and desired outcomes, and takes a series of photos for treatment planning.
Dr. Chakala also assesses your facial structure, skin quality, and symmetry. This information helps guide the location of your injections and her treatment approach.
Dermal fillers are generally safe, but certain interactions can occur; inform Dr. Chakala about the medications you’re taking.
Getting dermal fillers typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. The number of injections you receive and their location depends on the areas you want to improve and your health history.
When you arrive at our office, Dr. Chakala asks you to wash your face and then applies a topical numbing gel to your skin. She then administers a series of dermal filler injections into your forehead, cheeks, or jowls. Some people target a single concern, such as wrinkles, while others want multiple improvements. Dr. Chakala tailors your session to your needs.
It’s normal to feel a mild pinch or pressure with each injection, but it shouldn’t be painful. If you’re uncomfortable at any time, speak up, and Dr. Chakala can adjust her approach.
After your dermal filler appointment, you can return to work and most other daily activities right away. However, it’s normal to experience mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection sites.
Avoid rubbing, touching, or pressing on your face for at least 48 hours. Likewise, avoid alcohol, strenuous exercise, saunas, and hot tubs for the same period, as these activities may increase the risk of swelling and bruising.
Most side effects subside within three or four days, but don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns.
The results of dermal fillers appear almost immediately. Some people notice that their skin looks smoother right away, but for others it takes a few days or weeks to see the full effects. Regardless, final results usually appear within one to four weeks and can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on your metabolism, age, and the type of filler used.
To help maintain smooth, youthful skin and prolong your skin rejuvenation, Dr. Chakala encourages regular maintenance appointments. Touch-ups every 6 to 12 months can extend your results even longer.
Have you noticed an increase in wrinkles and sagging skin? If so, dermal fillers can help minimize these issues, creating a more confident appearance without going through surgical procedures. To get started, call us at 609-799-5000 or request an appointment online today. We are here to support you.
