Several common types of dermal fillers are available in the market, each with unique characteristics and indications. The specific choice of filler depends on factors such as the desired outcome, the area being treated, and individual patient needs. At A.T.A.I., we typically use Teosal, the Teoxane range of fillers, Restylane by Galderma, Juvéderm by Allergan and UTH.
Today the most common dermal filler used is the (HA) based filler. However, you will discover (CaHA) fillers such as HarmonyCA by Allergan, their hybrid filler. Calcium Hydroxyapatite (CaHA) promotes the body's own production of natural collagen. It provides an immediate lifting effect from the Hyaluronic Acid, and a gradual, long-lasting lift from Calcium Hydroxyapatite, by supporting your body's own collagen production.
- Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps maintain skin hydration and volume. They can be used for various purposes, such as adding volume to the cheeks, lips, and nasolabial folds, as well as smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. HA fillers are widely used due to their versatility and safety. Examples of HA fillers include Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero, and Revanesse.
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers: CaHA fillers contain calcium microspheres suspended in a gel-like substance. They provide immediate volume and also stimulate collagen production over time. Radiesse is a commonly used CaHA filler, often used for filling deeper wrinkles and adding volume to areas like the cheeks and chin.
- Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers: PLLA fillers stimulate collagen production and help restore facial volume gradually. Sculptra is a popular PLLA filler used for treating facial volume loss, particularly in areas like the cheeks and temples. Multiple treatment sessions are typically required for optimal results.
- Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Fillers: PMMA fillers contain tiny PMMA microspheres that remain in the skin permanently, providing long-lasting support. Bellafill is an example of a PMMA filler used for treating deep wrinkles and acne scars and contouring the face.
- Autologous Fat Injections: This procedure involves harvesting fat from one part of the patient's body (often through liposuction) and injecting it into another area requiring volume enhancement. Autologous fat injections are a natural and long-lasting option for facial rejuvenation.
PMMA is really not as popular anymore in the cosmetic field because of potential problems and the fact that so many better and safer options are now commonplace. PLLA, like Sculptra, we typically put into the BIO Remodeller class, and we offer a specialised course in Brands like Sculptra and Ellanse.
Teosyal, UTH, Restylane, and Juvederm are all well-known brands of dermal fillers used for aesthetic treatments. They are all similar, with personal preference often being the determining factor. However, you will find that specific products produce subtle differences in aesthetic outcomes, and this is the reason we use and teach multiple dermal filler brands.
Manufacturer and Product Range:Consistency and Durability:
Specialised Products:
- Teosyal: Teosyal is manufactured by Teoxane Laboratories and offers a range of HA fillers for various purposes, including volume restoration, wrinkle correction, lip enhancement, and skin hydration. Teosyal products are known for their smooth gel consistency and natural-looking results.
- UTH: UTH (Ultra Thin Hyaluronic Acid) is a brand of HA fillers developed by a South Korean company. UTH fillers are known for their ultra-thin consistency and are designed to provide natural and subtle results.
- Restylane: Restylane is manufactured by Galderma and offers a diverse range of HA fillers for facial rejuvenation. Restylane fillers add volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance lips.
- Juvederm: Juvederm is produced by Allergan and has a comprehensive line of HA fillers for various aesthetic needs, such as adding volume, filling wrinkles, and enhancing lips. Juvederm fillers are known for their smooth gel texture and natural results.
- Teosyal: Teosyal fillers have a smooth and homogeneous gel consistency, allowing for precise placement and natural-looking results. The longevity of Teosyal fillers typically ranges from 6 to 18 months.
- UTH: UTH fillers have an ultra-thin consistency, making them suitable for delicate areas and providing natural results. The duration of UTH fillers can vary based on the specific product and individual factors.
- Restylane: Restylane fillers have a smooth gel texture, providing a natural feel and appearance. The duration of the effects varies depending on the product used and can last between 6 to 18 months.
- Juvederm: Juvederm fillers are characterised by their smooth gel consistency, enabling easy injection and precise contouring. The longevity of Juvederm results varies depending on the product used, typically ranging from 6 to 24 months.
- Teosyal, UTH, Restylane, and Juvederm offer specialised products for specific concerns. For example, Teosyal Kiss and Restylane Kysse are designed for lip augmentation and shaping, while Juvederm Volbella is formulated for lip enhancement and treating fine lines.
Personal Preferences and Expertise:
The choice between Teosyal, UTH, Restylane, and Juvederm may depend on personal preferences and the expertise of the healthcare professional. Practitioners may have a preferred brand based on their experience, patient satisfaction, or training.
Choosing the most suitable dermal filler brand should be based on individual patient needs, desired treatment outcomes, and the expertise of the healthcare professional.
Training in dermal filler builds foundational skills that set you up for further learning. Many modalities, such as BIO Remodellers or PDO threads, require a high level of dermal filler skill before taking the advanced courses.
- Expanded skill set: By acquiring the skills to administer dermal fillers, you can expand your professional repertoire and offer your patients a wider range of aesthetic treatments. This can enhance your career prospects and open up new opportunities in medical aesthetics.
- Increasing demand: There is a growing demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including dermal filler injections. By training in this area, you can tap into a market experiencing significant growth and meet the increasing demand from individuals seeking aesthetic enhancements.
- Patient satisfaction: Dermal fillers can help individuals achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance by addressing wrinkles, volume loss, and facial asymmetry. By providing these treatments, you can improve your patients' self-confidence and overall satisfaction with their appearance.
- Collaboration and interdisciplinary work: Training in dermal fillers can facilitate collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or aesthetic practitioners. This interdisciplinary approach can lead to shared knowledge, referrals, and a more comprehensive approach to patient care.
- Professional development and advancement: Investing in your professional development by training in dermal fillers demonstrates your commitment to staying current and evolving within your field. It can enhance your professional reputation, increase your confidence, and potentially lead to career advancement opportunities.
- Additional revenue stream: Incorporating dermal filler treatments into your practice can provide an additional revenue stream. Offering these aesthetic procedures can be financially rewarding and help to diversify your income.
- Personal interest and passion: If you have a genuine interest in medical aesthetics and enjoy working with patients to enhance their appearance, training in dermal fillers can allow you to pursue your passion and work in a field that aligns with your interests.
It is important to note that qualified healthcare professionals should undertake training in dermal fillers in adherence to legal and ethical guidelines and within the scope of their professional training and licensing requirements.
