Fillers and Neurotoxins and Cannulas, Oh My!
Plastic Surgery Associates has a special discount on injectables this month. Over the past several years, the filler market has exploded with new fillers. New fillers are introduced to the US market several times a year lately. Most fillers that get released in the US have been used for years in Europe. That means theĀ new fillers have a long track record of safe use before they are released in the US. My newest favorite new filler is Restylane Silk. It is the first hyaluronic acid filler that is FDA approved for lip enhancement. It is wonderful for the patient that wants natural appearing, soft, full lips. If you have always wanted to improve your lips but we’re afraid of getting “Hollywood” lips, now is the time to try Restylane Silk.
Another injectable that I really like is Sculptra. It is a stimulatory filler. That means that the material we inject (suspended in sterile salt water) causes your body to make collagen in the area that is injected. It is your own tissue! It is a very gradual, extremely natural augmentation of your facial features. It takes two to three sessions, 4-6 weeks apart to get the best results. The results last for 2 years or longer.
It seems that everybody does fillers now. Dentists, Family Practice doctors, ER doctors, medical spas that employ a nurse injector…..the list goes on. So why should you choose a plastic surgeon as your go to person for fillers and neurotoxins (Botox, Dysport,)? I think I am in a unique position to help you develop a plan to achieve your goals. If you come in asking about fillers or Botox, but your particular anatomy and concerns would be better treated with a laser, or surgery or fat injections, I will tell you. If you go somewhere that cannot offer other procedures, you will get what they offer, which may not be what you need. Also, I have spent years operating on the facial anatomy including muscles, nerves, blood vessels, skin…….. I know the anatomy and how it works better than your average injector. I also use a cannula for most injectables. It is a blunt, not sharp tool used to inject fillers. It is much more difficult to inject with a cannula, so most injectors use a needle. The advantage of a cannula is less bruising, swelling and pain and a much less chance of injecting a filler into an artery. Injection into an artery can cause skin death with resulting scars and even possible blindness. The safety advantage that a cannula gives you is a big plus. And who wants to be more bruised and swollen that necessary?
Will you pay a little more for a plastic surgeon to evaluate your face, develop a plan and perform your procedure? Yes, but I am worth it! Call, come in, and let us help you “Love the way You Look”!!
Sonya Merriman, M.D.