Fillers

Matsuda Dermatology

Dermatology Clinic located in Honolulu, HI and serving the outer islands: Big Island, Maui, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, and Niihau

The signs of aging — fine lines and wrinkles — can be eliminated with a cosmetic facelift. However, a surgical facelift is invasive and increases the risks of developing an infection and other complications. In lieu of a surgical facelift, more people are opting for injectable fillers as a way to look more youthful. Dr. Stella Matsuda and Dr. Shannon Sheu of Matsuda Dermatology in Honolulu, Hawaii, and serving telehealth to the outer islands of Big Island, Maui, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, and Niihau, take a personalized approach to helping you look your best while maintaining a natural look. Since all injectable fillers have different strengths and characteristics, please contact the office to schedule a personalized cosmetic filler assessment and consultation.

808-818-8937

Fillers Q & A

WHAT ARE FACIAL FILLERS?

Facial fillers are substances that can be injected directly into the face to add volume to the skin. Fillers use substances such as calcium hydroxyl apatite and hyaluronic acid that help in the rejuvenation of facial skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles in the process. Facial fillers, also known as ‘volumizers,’ are additionally used to plump up the lips or raise scar depressions.

WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?

The body contains its own natural filler called hyaluronic acid. This substance gives the skin its volume and prevents it from sagging. However, as we age and deal with life’s stresses, our hyaluronic acid decreases. When this happens, the face appears aged and manifests deeper nasolabial folds, thinning of the lips, a deeper mentalis fold, unaesthetic marionette lines, and turning down of the lip corners.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF FACIAL FILLERS?

Non-surgical facelifts with facial injections can have temporary or long-lasting effects on the face. The results vary and depend on the type of facial filler used. While the majority fillers use hyaluronic acid as a main ingredient, there are variations in the elasticity, mobility, and texture of each filler. Depending on the area being treated and the quality of your skin, different fillers may be suggested to give you the most natural and flattering results.

ARE THERE ANY DOWNSIDES WITH FACIAL FILLERS?

Although facial fillers have been effective and their use is relatively easy, wrinkle fillers also have some downsides. These include:

Increased risk for allergic reaction
Tiny bumps may form under the skin, which can sometimes be permanent
Tyndall effect, the blue discoloration of the skin, may also occur
If not used properly, facial fillers can cause the death of skin cells

HOW CAN I MINIMIZE THE RISKS INVOLVED WITH FACIAL FILLERS?

To ensure your safety, it is best to know the different fillers available, as well as the risks and benefits associated with each of them. Most important, every procedure should only be performed by qualified and trained personnel like you will find at the clinic of Dr. Matsuda, Dr. Sheu, and Dr. Jim On.