Disclaimer: This page is general educational information, not medical advice. Treatments described here are medical procedures with potential risks; candidacy, results and recovery vary from person to person. Consult a qualified, licensed provider before any treatment.
Overview
Dermal fillers are injectable gels used to restore volume, smooth certain lines or enhance features such as lips, cheeks and the jawline. Many fillers are based on hyaluronic acid, a substance found naturally in the body, and are designed to be temporary. Others use different materials and have different properties. Each product is designed for particular depths and areas, so the choice of product is part of treatment planning.
Filler treatment begins with a consultation in which the provider assesses facial anatomy, discusses goals and reviews medical history. Injection technique, product selection and conservative volumes are key to results that look natural. Some swelling and bruising is common afterward, and results may continue to settle over the following days.
Fillers carry risks that should be discussed openly. Beyond swelling and bruising, rare but serious complications can occur if filler is placed into or compresses a blood vessel. Providers who inject fillers should understand facial anatomy, know how to recognize complications and have a plan to respond, which for hyaluronic acid fillers includes having a dissolving enzyme available. These are good reasons to choose a provider carefully rather than primarily on price.
What to expect, step by step
- Consultation, including your goals, health history and previous treatments.
- Facial assessment and treatment planning, including product choice.
- Consent discussion covering expected results, risks and aftercare.
- Cleansing and, often, topical numbing or filler containing local anesthetic.
- Injection using a needle or cannula, depending on area and technique.
Things worth considering
- Complication preparedness matters. Ask what the practice does if a vascular complication occurs.
- Hyaluronic acid fillers can typically be dissolved if needed; other filler types may not be.
- More isn't always better. Overfilling can look unnatural; gradual treatment is common.
- Duration varies by product, area and individual factors.
- Pricing is often per syringe, and the number needed varies.
- Some medical conditions or recent dental work may affect timing. Disclose your history.
Local notes for Colorado Springs
Colorado's high elevation and abundant sunshine mean stronger UV exposure than at sea level, so sun protection is a common part of skin treatment plans. Colorado sets rules for who may perform medical aesthetic procedures.
We take inquiries from Colorado Springs, Monument, Fountain, Manitou Springs, Security-Widefield.
Before you send an inquiry
- Mention if you are pregnant, nursing or planning a pregnancy, since many treatments are postponed in that case.
- Be ready to describe your skin type and any history of scarring, pigmentation changes or cold sores.
- Prepare questions about who will perform the treatment and who supervises it.
- Think about timing, including upcoming events, travel or sun exposure, since some treatments need recovery time.
- Write down what you would like to change or improve, and what results you are hoping for, in your own words.
Signs to slow down
- Prices that seem far below typical without an explanation.
- No written consent form explaining risks, alternatives and aftercare.
- Unwillingness to name the products or devices being used.
- Pressure to buy large packages or prepay for many sessions at the first visit.
- No plan for handling complications or follow-up questions after treatment.
How to vet a provider
- What result is realistic for my anatomy?
- Is a follow-up appointment included?
- What downtime should I expect?
- How do you minimize the risk of vascular complications, and what is your emergency plan?
- How many syringes might I need, and how is pricing structured?
- Which product do you recommend, and why?
- Do you keep a dissolving enzyme on hand?
Frequently asked
- Do fillers hurt?
- Many fillers contain a local anesthetic and providers may use topical numbing. Sensations vary from person to person.
- How long do fillers last?
- Duration varies by product, treatment area, metabolism and other factors. Your provider can explain the expected range for the product used.
- What are the risks of fillers?
- Common effects include swelling and bruising. Rare but serious complications can occur, which is why choosing a qualified, experienced provider matters.
Related topics
- Chemical Peels: What chemical peels are, peel depths, downtime and safety considerations, and what to ask a provider.
- Skin Rejuvenation: An overview of skin rejuvenation treatments for tone, texture and sun damage, and how to choose with a provider.
- Microneedling: What microneedling involves, how it is commonly used, recovery expectations and questions to ask a provider.
Tell us a little about what you need, and we'll get back to you about dermal fillers.
Disclaimer: This page is general educational information, not medical advice. Treatments described here are medical procedures with potential risks; candidacy, results and recovery vary from person to person. Consult a qualified, licensed provider before any treatment.