DERMAL FILLERS: ASK THE EXPERT with GENEVIEVE BURCIAGA
Tell me about your position at MetroMD Institute of Regenerative & Cosmetic Medicine?
Nursing Director
What is your background and qualifications in this industry?
Six years of experience in nutrition and aesthetics, specializing in injectables.
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are medical products used to correct volume loss and/or enhance natural beauty.
What are some new fillers that consumers may not be familiar with yet?
Versa from Revanesse is a new HA (hyaluronic acid) that is long lasting and ideal for all areas of the face! PRP and PRFM are filler-like treatments using the patient’s own bio-chemistry in order to enhance collagen, fibrin and elastin. Blood is taken from the patient, and then carefully separated in a centrifuge to obtain specifically the plasma (liquid gold). The plasma has specific platelets that are stimulated into fertilizing growth factors to improve color, texture and shape of dermis.
What can dermal fillers do?
They can correct deep and fine lines, improve texture of skin, stimulate collagen, enhance facial features naturally or can be a substitute for plastic surgery in order to augment the face. They also can be injected superficially or be injected deep into the skin. Dermal fillers have been known to be used in facial reconstruction therapy. For example, improvement on recessed scars.
What can’t dermal fillers do?
With dermal fillers there needs to be a need for education and realistic expectations. Dermal fillers cannot take you from your 30’s, 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, back to the age of 18. It cannot provide the look of a face lift. It is mean to increase volume, not a skin tightening result that only an ‘under the knife’ treatment could provide.
How do dermal fillers work?
HA (hyaluronic acid) fillers work under the dermis (skin) to provide instant volume enhancement, while using it’s hydrophilic molecules to attract water (moisture), giving a supple hydrated look. The semi-permanent calcium based fillers provide volume and support to the facial structures, while stimulating the patient’s own natural collagen.
What are the differences between hyaluronic acid fillers, collagen fillers and synthetic fillers?
All cosmetic fillers are classified as synthetic….. HA (hyaluronic acid) fillers are using molecules that are naturally derived from the human body. Its job is to attract water (moisture). Collagen injections restore the skin’s natural collagen. By amplifying your skin’s own collagen, these types of injections may help reduce deep and fine lines, as well as some types of scars. These products are derived from cows (bovine) or human cells.
What should someone who has never had any filler consider before getting dermal fillers?
Prior to committing to dermal fillers, patients should have a realistic expectation set by understanding the lifelong maintenance in order to keep up with the desired results throughout the aging process. They should consider whether it is in their budget, and if they have any upcoming engagements or events because swelling and bruising are common. Does the patient have any medical diagnoses that would restrict them from ANY cosmetic procedure? Any allergies? Are they prone to scarring?
Are dermal fillers safe?
In the hands of an experienced provider, dermal fillers are safe. If at any time HA fillers occlude vessels, there is an enzyme that will immediately dissolve the filler.
How do they typically last?
Literature states that fillers typically last 12 to 24 months, however a persons biology and metabolism have a lot to do with the duration of the filler.
Approximately at what age should someone consider getting dermal fillers?
With a large spectrum of aging processes and reconstructive needs, one can consider as early as needed.
What can someone expect in terms of cost?
A patient can expect anywhere from $400 up to $1,200 per 1cc of dermal fillers.
What should people look out for in terms of qualification and experience when choosing the professional who will be administering the filler?
It is always a good idea to do research on your provider and have a consultation to see if he/she is a good fit for you.
Should someone getting fillers consider other procedure(s) to compliment the treatment?
If needed complementary treatments would include:
Radio-Frequency Treatments
Micro-Current Treatments
Laser Treatments
Micro-Needling Treatments
Neuromodulators
And of course … Nutrition and Positive Lifestyle
Who if anyone should not get dermal fillers?
Any patients with pre-existing medical diagnoses that would prohibit dermal fillers.
What is different in the way you administer fillers to ensure best results?
Certain fillers must be injected deep into the dermis, while others can be injected superficially. There are micro-droplet techniques, as well as threading techniques. Blunt cannulas are an option in lieu of a traditional needle.
For a consultation appointment with Genevieve Burciaga, please call MetroMD Institute of Regenerative & Cosmetic Medicine at 323.285.5300 or visit www.metro-md.com