The New World of Dermal Fillers – A Brief Overview for Clinicians

Dermal fillers have never been more popular than they are today and are a product all clinicians should have a basic knowledge of. They can add a youthful appearance to your client’s face and help them to have more confidence. It is however essential that your clients when they are  considering using injectable fillers opt only for those that are FDA approved. This is a simple matter of safety on their part and ethics on your part. Only FDA approved filers should be used or recommended.

When choosing an injectable filler most clients opt for the old reliable collagen, widely used in cosmetic surgery and also a valuable aid in treating burn patients. Collagen is sometimes put aside these days for newer injectables but is still first choice for many. It has diverse uses in surgery and dentistry. However, there is the possibility of allergic reactions in some patients so a skin test should be performed to ensure that the client/patient is not allergic to this substance, generated by the body and found in all humans. Most  collagen used in cosmetic surgery and for other cosmetic purposes  is bovine in nature, from young beef cattle. Manufacturers use animals from closed herds or from countries that have never had a case of mad cow disease to minimize risks associated with bovine collagen. Alternatives to collagen from animals include that derived from human donor cadavers, from placenta and from aborted fetuses.

Part of the popularity of collagen is that it is quite effective in filling wrinkles, scars and facial lines. After the skin test to determine there is no allergic reaction collagen is  injected using a fine needle, usually with only minor discomfort  and no bandaging is needed. After the collagen injection the patient is free to return to normal life activities. Those who cannot use collagen can try the many  alternatives that also have good results. These include hyaluronic acid sold under the brand name of Hylaform and Hylaform Plus. Most people who use Hylaform and Hylaform Plus are happy with the results.

Part of your duties as a professional clinician include being informed on injectible fillers and other aspects of related and allied professions. In this manner you will instill confidence in your clients and pass on valuable information to them, assisting them in looking good, feeling good and actually being healthy.