Dermal Fillers
At Larimar Med in St. Charles, IL, we take great pride in our dedication to providing exceptional cosmetic enhancement services. One of our primary focuses is on dermal fillers, a highly sought-after treatment in the field of aesthetic medicine. Led by Dr. Lauren Fitzgerald, MD, we specialize in this innovative treatment designed to rejuvenate and revitalize your appearance. Dermal fillers go beyond simply enhancing facial contours to offer a sophisticated solution for combatting the signs of aging and restoring facial balance.
CALL (630) 762-9864 to Schedule a Consultation or Appointment
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are a cornerstone in aesthetic medicine, offering a non-surgical solution to restore volume and smoothness to the skin. Containing biocompatible materials, injectable fillers fill wrinkles, add volume and hydration to soft tissues, and can boost your own natural collagen over time.
The injection process is precise and tailored. Using a fine needle or a blunt-tipped cannula, we administer the filler in specific areas and depths of the skin. We place the injections strategically, sculpting and contouring your features to ensure natural-looking results. Our goal is to highlight and enhance without erasing what makes you unique.
Dr. Lauren Fitzgerald and our team of experts will work with you to determine which specific filler or combination of fillers is the best fit for your aesthetic goals. We consider factors such as your facial anatomy, your skin condition, and the degree of correction desired to personalize your treatment plan.
How Do Dermal Fillers Differ From Botox?
Dermal Fillers We Provide
Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers
Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are renowned for their hydrating properties, as hyaluronic acid naturally attracts water molecules, promoting a plump and hydrated appearance. These fillers are ideal for smoothing wrinkles, enhancing lip volume, and restoring facial fullness with natural-looking results. They are also reversible, offering peace of mind for those new to dermal fillers.Sculptra®
Sculptra stands out for its unique ability to stimulate collagen production, an essential protein in maintaining skin elasticity and strength. Rather than just filling in lines, Sculptra gradually restores facial volume and smooths wrinkles by rejuvenating the skin’s inner structure. This treatment is perfect for those seeking long-lasting, natural enhancement. Sculptra is a biostimulator and works differently from our hyaluronic acid dermal fillers because it contains an active ingredient called poly-L-lactic acid that stimulates your body to produce new collagen at the injection sites. Sculptra is a natural approach for a full facial rejuvenation plan targeted at treating volume loss in the temples, mid face, and lower face. Sculptra’s collagen stimulation action restores volume, tightens tissues, and rebalances facial contours in a way no other product can. As a favorite anti-aging product among our clients, Sculptra creates a face-lift effect by causing your skin to produce more of its own collagen, and results provide 25+ months of longevity.Radiesse®
Radiesse is recognized for its dual-action benefits. Not only does it provide immediate volume correction, but it also encourages natural collagen production for long-term improvement. Composed of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres, Radiesse is particularly effective for contouring and defining areas such as the cheeks and jawline while smoothing moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. A newer and highly effective use for Radiesse is the technique of hyperdilution. When diluted and injected superficially, Radiesse acts as a collagen stimulating agent. The Hyperdilute Radiesse technique combines the filler with saline and lidocaine, thinning the consistency and increasing the volume of product. The Hyperdilute Radiesse is then injected into the desired superficial areas through a thin cannula. Common treatment areas include the cheeks, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, back of hands, and the neck. This treatment is a favorable alternative to surgical intervention such as a face lift or neck lift.Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF)
Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a safe, effective, and natural alternative to hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. A sample of blood is taken and the nutrient rich plasma is separated and injected into certain facial areas to improve skin texture and quality. This can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The most common injection areas include tear troughs, lower face, and fine lines around the mouth. The PRF process results in a different preparation than PRP, resulting in a higher concentration of platelets and a stronger release of growth factors. PRF contains fibrin, a protein that helps support tissue repair and regeneration. PRF injections are typically used to improve the overall health and appearance of the skin and work to stimulate your body’s production of collagen.Benefits of Dermal Fillers
Instant Results
Dermal fillers offer immediate visibility of results, providing a quick transformation. This immediate effect lets you enjoy a rejuvenated look immediately, bypassing the long wait associated with other cosmetic treatments.
Minimal Downtime
The treatment for dermal fillers is quick and non-invasive, requiring minimal downtime. This convenience allows you to resume your daily activities soon after treatment, which is ideal for those with a busy schedule.
Long-Lasting Effects
Dermal fillers are known for their longevity, maintaining their effect for several months up to a few years. Their lasting impact offers a cost-efficient way to preserve a youthful look over time.
Natural-Looking Enhancement
Dermal fillers enhance your appearance subtly, ensuring your facial expressions remain natural. This advantage guarantees that your improved look is attractive and genuinely reflects you.
Tailored Treatment
The wide range of dermal fillers allows treatments to be precisely tailored to your concerns. Whether enhancing lips or restoring cheek volume, the approach is customized to meet your needs.
Smoothing of Wrinkles and Folds
Dermal fillers are highly effective in smoothing wrinkles and folds, particularly around the nose and mouth. Their ability to soften these areas contributes to a more youthful and vibrant appearance.
Restoration of Facial Volume
Dermal fillers counter the age-related loss of volume in the face effectively. Restoring this volume creates a fuller, more youthful facial shape.
Versatility in Treatment Areas
The adaptability of dermal fillers allows for treatment in various facial regions, offering a comprehensive rejuvenation. The applications are extensive and diverse, whether it’s enhancing lips, defining contours, or softening creases.
Your Dermal Filler Treatment at Larimar Med
Consultation
Your experience begins with a thorough consultation with Dr. Fitz or one of our expert practitioners. During this session, we’ll:
- Discuss your aesthetic goals and concerns in detail
- Assess your facial structure, skin condition, and areas of volume loss
- Explain the different types of fillers we offer and recommend the best options for your needs
- Provide information about the procedure, expected results, and aftercare
- Create your custom treatment plan
This consultation is our opportunity to get to know each other. We encourage you to ask questions and voice any apprehensions you might have so you feel completely confident in your decisions.
Treatment
Before the procedure, we’ll review your treatment plan and address any last-minute questions. Then we’ll:
- Cleanse the treatment area
- Apply a topical numbing cream if desired
- Administer the chosen filler using precise techniques
- Provide a mirror so you can review and discuss the results with us
- Make small adjustments, if needed, to ensure you’re completely satisfied
- Ensure you receive detailed aftercare instructions
The injection process typically takes around 15 minutes. A more comprehensive facial rejuvenation treatment may take up to one hour. You will be able to see immediate results, though there may be some initial swelling.
Recovery
Aftercare is a critical part of the process. Following your treatment, you:
- May experience some swelling, redness or bruising, which typically subsides within a few days
- Can return to most normal activities immediately
- Should avoid rubbing or massaging the treated areas for at least a few hours
- Should not use active skincare products, such as acids and retinoids, for 24 hours
- Should avoid strenuous exercise, excessive heat, and alcohol for 24 to 48 hours
- May return a follow-up appointment to assess your results and address any concerns
Remember, while results are immediate, it can take up to two weeks for filler to fully settle and for any side effects to completely subside. Reach out to our team with any questions or issues that arise post-treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are incredibly versatile and can be used to address a variety of areas. Common treatment areas include the lips, cheeks, under eyes (tear troughs), jawline, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines. Each area can be specifically targeted to enhance your natural features and achieve a harmonious balance.
Typically, the effects of dermal fillers can last from six months to over a year, but the longevity varies depending on the type used and the individual’s skin condition. In some cases, with regular maintenance and follow-up treatments, results can be prolonged further.
To maintain the results of your dermal fillers, it’s important to follow a good skincare routine, stay hydrated, and protect your skin from excessive sun exposure. Regular follow-up treatments can also help prolong the effects of your fillers. We will provide personalized advice on maintaining your results based on the specific fillers used and your skin type.
Your comfort is as important to us as it is to you. Many of our fillers contain lidocaine, a local anesthetic, to minimize pain during injection. We also offer topical numbing creams for sensitive areas. You may feel a slight pinch or pressure during the injection, but it’s usually well-tolerated. Most patients report minimal discomfort from the procedure.
Dermal fillers are generally safe when administered by qualified professionals like Dr. Fitz and her team. However, no medical procedure is entirely free of risk, and fillers are no exception. The most common side effects are injection site reactions, like temporary redness, swelling, bruising or tenderness. More serious complications are rare.
We’ll discuss all potential risks during your consultation and provide guidance on recognizing any unusual symptoms. Rest assured, the Larimar Med team is qualified to respond to any complications that may occur.
We will always prioritize the safety of both you and your baby. While there’s no evidence suggesting that dermal fillers are harmful during pregnancy or nursing, there haven’t been enough studies to prove they’re safe. We advise waiting to resume or start filler treatments until after you’ve crossed these milestones. In the meantime, we’d be happy to discuss alternative treatments that are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding to help you maintain your glow.
We recommend getting fillers at least two weeks before any special occasion. This gives the filler time to fully integrate with your tissues for the best results. It also allows enough time for side effects like bruising or swelling to subside before the big day.
If you’re new to fillers, you might consider scheduling your appointment three to four weeks ahead, just in case you need any touch-ups or adjustments. Always communicate any upcoming events during your consultation so we can plan your treatment accordingly.
Dermal fillers are often combined with other treatments, such as Botox® or laser therapies, for a more comprehensive rejuvenation. This combination approach can address many concerns, from wrinkles and volume loss to skin texture and tone. We can create a personalized treatment plan that harmonizes various treatments for optimal results.
The ideal type of dermal filler for you depends on your specific aesthetic goals, the areas you wish to address, and your skin’s unique characteristics. During your consultation, we will assess your needs and recommend the most suitable dermal fillers, whether HA fillers, Sculptra, or Radiesse, to achieve your desired outcome.