Facial fillers like hyaluronic acid are temporary substances that typically last for around 10 to 12 months. When applied beneath the skin and deep tissues, they increase the volume of various facial areas. They also attract water, adding volume, and stimulate collagen production, leading to greater skin elasticity and radiance. This makes it possible to fill in lines such as nasolabial folds, shape specific areas of the nose or facial contour, enhance lip volume and contour, highlight the cheeks, conceal under-eye circles by adding definition around the eye, and address deep expression lines or wrinkles. It can also be used to camouflage certain scars. The procedure is performed in an office setting and usually takes approximately 30 minutes.
It is the second most commonly performed medical aesthetic procedure after botulinum toxin or “Botox” application, because when applied correctly with proper patient selection, technique, and product, it yields amazing results that enhance beauty. Nowadays, it is crucial to emphasize that a thorough and judicious understanding of surgical anatomy plays a fundamental role in preventing possible future complications, such as product migration, asymmetry, or more severe issues like embolization or accidental filling of a facial artery, leading to partial or total tissue death and the subsequent deformities. When one of these complications occurs, it is vital to act swiftly and professionally to minimize long-term sequelae. Choosing a good medical specialist is essential.