How do dermal fillers work?
As we age, our skin becomes thinner and begins to sag. Dermal fillers are designed to plump up the face, a process that helps restore lost volume and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. There are several types of dermal fillers; some are made using synthetic materials, and others are made using substances that naturally form inside the body. Dermatologists at Colorado Dermatology Institute can help you determine which type is best for you.
What do the different types of filler include?
- Hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural substance found inside the body. Hyaluronic acid plays a crucial role in healing the skin and keeping it hydrated.
- Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), a mineral found in human bones. Calcium hydroxylapatite serves as a scaffold for the development of new tissue.
- Poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA), a biodegradable synthetic polymer. Poly-l-lactic acid is used to stimulate the production of collagen within the body and restore volume to aging skin.
Dermal Fillers
Procedure Time: 30 - 45 minutes 
Recovery Time: Varies 
Number of treatments: Varies During treatment, a provider will inject filler into the skin to treat the patient's cosmetic concerns.
*Note that these times for the treatment, recovery, and the number of treatments can vary person to person and this is only to be treated as a minimum or approximation for the treatment.
Common questions & resources
How long do dermal fillers last?
The results from dermal fillers are not always permanent. As time passes, the body begins to break down the materials from the injection. This process may occur anywhere from 6 months to 2 years after the procedure. Once these materials have been completely absorbed by the body, patients may wish to schedule additional treatments.
What should I expect during treatment?
All filler journeys begin with a consultation, during which patients will meet with professionals at Colorado Dermatology Institute to discuss their concerns and plans for treatment. The appointment itself usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the area of treatment and the needs of each patient.
During the appointment, a provider will apply a numbing cream to the area of treatment. This is meant to reduce the discomfort that patients feel during the injection. Once the numbing cream has had time to work, the provider will begin injecting filler into the skin.
Most patients describe it as a mild pinching or burning sensation. It’s important to let your provider know if you experience significant pain during treatment.
What will my recovery look like?
It’s normal to experience some side effects immediately after treatment. These side effects may include swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, redness, and lumps near the injection site. Most of these side effects will start to clear up in a matter of days—some may only take a few hours.
It’s also important to note that some patients may be more sensitive to filler injections. Your recovery timeline might look different compared to someone else’s, depending on factors like age, genetics, and treatment area.
Are dermal fillers right for me?
Dermal fillers are a safe and effective option for most people. However, there are some health conditions that can make someone a poor candidate for dermal fillers. If you are on blood thinners, you will have an increased risk of bruising near the injection site, and patients who are immunocompromised will see a higher risk of infection following treatment.
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid getting dermal fillers altogether. Professionals at Colorado Dermatology Institute will help you determine if dermal fillers are a good fit for you prior to your appointment.
What are dermal fillers good for?
Dermal fillers help patients reverse signs of aging. Injections are a popular choice for treatment because they are less invasive cosmetic surgery, require much less downtime, and the results are noticeable right away.
Most providers use dermal fillers to:
- Restore lost facial fat.
- Make facial features more symmetrical.
- Smooth fine lines, wrinkles, and skin folds.
- Plump lips, cheeks, and hollow under-eyes.
- Treat acne scars.
