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As you age, you gain wisdom and precious memories. Unfortunately, you also lose collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – three substances that are plentiful in youthful and healthy skin. Collagen and elastin are two proteins that provide structural support and act as a scaffolding. When you lack these, your facial tissues gradually sag under the effects of gravity. Meanwhile, hyaluronic acid is a humectant that attracts and retains moisture. In its absence, your skin loses its resiliency and elasticity. The result is hollowed cheeks and temples, thinner lips, undereye circles, and bony hands.
In years past, surgical interventions like a facelift or fat grafting into the lips were the only options available to people searching for anti-aging solutions. However, recent years have brought many innovations that now allow us to restore your skin’s vitality without resorting to surgery. What’s the secret? To combat the volume loss that characterizes the aging process, Dr. Desman can strategically apply dermal fillers to targeted areas like your lips, cheeks, temples, tear troughs, and the backs of your hands.
Hyaluronic acid-based fillers such as those in the Juvéderm® family have become one of the most sought-after cosmetic enhancements because they allow a skilled injector to transform your appearance with nearly instantaneous results and minimal side effects. Fillers allow us to:
We perform dermal filler injections here in our Alexandria office. Because we use small, fine needles, and the fillers contain an anesthetic called lidocaine, there is minimal discomfort associated with this procedure. The average injection takes less than 30 minutes to perform, and you can go back to work afterward if you choose.
Because hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule, it’s biocompatible, limiting the risk of an allergic reaction. Our patients’ most common side effects after receiving anti-aging fillers are minor swelling and bruising around the injection sites. These mild side effects should resolve on their own within a few days. In the meantime, you can help minimize these with the at-home remedy of ice packs. We also recommend that you avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 to 48 hours following your appointment, since an elevated heart rate can raise your blood pressure and increase swelling.
Though the results of anti-aging and lip plumping fillers aren’t permanent, they do create long-lasting enhancements when injected in precise quantities. As your body metabolizes the fillers and you start noticing their effects wearing off, return for a quick touch-up appointment that will have you looking and feeling your best. You can maximize the outcome of your filler injections by avoiding sun exposure, staying hydrated, and eating a well-balanced diet.
To learn more about restoring your youthful appearance by minimizing wrinkles and skin sagging and getting a perfect pout, contact us to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Eric Desman today. As a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Desman puts his high level of training and personalized approach to work for all his clients.