Go Easy on the Fillers
It happens in cosmetic surgery just as it does in other areas of life that are heavily influenced by trends. A new product, technique or idea is introduced, then people go hog wild with it for a while. Remember the days–not so long ago–when some women would continually swap out breast implants for bigger models? And a few would race to see who could get the biggest breast implants? Though there are still some women out there with giant boobs, we’re glad the pendulum is swinging back toward a more natural look. It’s healthier for people both physically and psychologically.
According to the New York Post, facial fillers may be undergoing a similar shift. In an article last month, the publication noted that many celebrities are using fillers more sparingly than in past years, and some are even seeking help to get their fillers dissolved. Women like Courteney Cox and Kylie Jenner have talked openly about reducing or eliminating fillers, the New York Post reported. Said Cox, “I feel better because I look more like myself.”
Could it be that the days of unnaturally chubby cheeks and the unfortunate “trout pout” are over?
Other Reasons to Be Careful with Fillers
The fact that people in the spotlight are beginning to think more strategically about what they inject in their faces is just one reason you also might consider using extra caution. Another reason is that some options for adding volume under the skin can be reversed, some can’t.
If you’re considering a filler for marionette lines, tear troughs or another problem area, it pays to do a little research on the ingredients. Those based on hyaluronic acids, such as the popular Juvederm, can be dissolved with enzyme injections. For others with a different mix of ingredients, such as Sculptra, there’s no solution but to wait it out. Fat injections can be tricky too. It’s possible to remove excess fat, but not necessarily easy to get a smooth, precise result.
You should also be wary of bargains. Unfortunately, fake fillers and unscrupulous providers abound in this area of the aesthetic marketplace.
How We Counter These Risks
The Post says that all over New York, fillers are being dissolved. The article suggests that it’s because doctors, as well as patients, initially went overboard with fillers, wanting to “correct” every wrinkle and hollow. The so-called “liquid facelift,” in which fillers and Botox have been used instead of surgery, contributed as well.
We have probably always been a bit more conservative than many doctors in the use of Juvederm, Sculptra, Radiesse and the others. In our view, it’s a lot easier to add more product than take it out after the fact.
We treat many patients interested in facial fillers in New York each month. When we meet a first-time patient, we take it slowly and conservatively. We inject a small amount and smooth it out, then see how the patient responds to the change. Patients who have not had experience with fillers especially appreciate this approach.
With patients we have seen before, we’re often refreshing results we’ve achieved for them in the past. But even then, once in a great while, a patient will request a little less plumping effect once they look in the mirror. If this is the case, we can dissolve a little of the filler right away.
Another way our practice is different is our board-certified plastic surgeon does every treatment himself. He knows the anatomy of the face intimately and applies his 30+ years of experience to each case: an advantage for our patients.
We are always happy to see new cosmetic surgery treatments become available, and, when a new option proves itself to be beneficial, we may be among the first to adopt it. But we don’t jump on every bandwagon, and we have a general preference for creating a natural look for the men and women we work with. If this is an approach that makes sense to you, give us a call at 212-570-6080.
