Soft Tissue Augmentation

What is Soft Tissue Augmentation?

Soft tissue augmentation is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting filler into specific areas of the face to restore volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. The fillers used are composed of various substances, such as hyaluronic acid (e.g. Restylane®, Juvederm®, RHA®), calcium hydroxylapatite (e.g. Radiesse®), or poly-L-lactic acid (e.g. Sculptra®), depending on the specific treatment goals and individual needs.
 

Benefits of Soft Tissue Augmentation and Fillers

• Volume Restoration: Soft tissue augmentation can effectively restore lost volume in areas that have become hollow or sunken due to aging or other factors.
• Wrinkle Reduction: Fillers help smooth out folds and wrinkles, giving the skin a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
• Facial Contouring: By strategically placing fillers, dermatologists can enhance facial contours and restore more youthful dimensions for a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing look.
• Quick Procedure: Soft tissue augmentation is a relatively quick procedure that can often be completed in a single treatment visit, with minimal to no downtime required.
• Natural-Looking Results: Our skilled medical providers can achieve natural-looking results, enhancing the facial features while maintaining the individual’s unique appearance.

Types of Fillers

• Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers: HA fillers are the most common type and are used to address a wide range of concerns, including nasolabial folds, marionette lines, mid face cheek, tear trough, jawline and lip augmentation. They provide hydration and stimulate collagen production. HA fillers can be dissolved using hyaluronidase.
• Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers: CaHA is a naturally occurring substance found in bones. As a filler, the particles are suspended in gel creating a thicker, longer lasting filler. It is reported to stimulate natural collagen production.
• Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers: PLLA fillers stimulate collagen production over time and are often used for full-face volumization, particularly in areas with severe volume loss.

The Soft Tissue Augmentation Procedure

• Consultation: During your initial consultation, a dermatologist will assess your concerns, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine the most suitable filler type and treatment plan for you.
• Treatment Planning: The dermatologist will create a customized treatment plan based on your facial anatomy, areas to be treated and desired outcomes.
• Injection Process: Topical numbing is applied to the face for 45 minutes prior to the injection time to improve patient comfort. The filler is carefully injected into specific areas of the face using a fine needle or cannula. The dermatologist will ensure precise placement and symmetry for optimal results.
• Recovery and Results: Please avoid physical activity and makeup for the rest of the day following your injections. You can typically resume your normal activities the following day. Some temporary swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection sites may occur but will subside within a few days.

Safety Considerations

• Soft tissue augmentation with fillers is generally safe when performed by a trained and experienced dermatologist.
• Common Side Effects: Common side effects include temporary swelling, bruising, redness, or tenderness at the injection sites. These effects are usually mild and resolve on their own.
• Less Frequent Risks: While rare, potential risks include infection, allergic reactions, asymmetry, lumpiness, and filler migration. Choosing a qualified dermatologist minimizes these risks.
• Rare Risks: Rarely filler can result in a vascular occlusion, or a lack of blood flow through a vessel. Vascular occlusions can be characterized as purpura, skin or soft tissue damage, vision loss or stroke. If managed appropriately, most vascular occlusions result in minimal long term morbidity.
• Contraindications: Soft tissue augmentation may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Maintenance and Duration of Results

• Duration: The longevity of fillers varies depending on the type used, the treated area, and individual factors. Results can last from several months to over a year.
• Maintenance: To maintain the desired results, follow-up treatments or touch-up sessions may be necessary. Your dermatologist will advise you on the recommended treatment intervals.

Soft tissue augmentation and fillers offer a safe and effective solution to enhance facial volume, smooth out wrinkles, and rejuvenate your appearance. If you’re considering soft tissue augmentation, we recommend consulting with one of our highly skilled board-certified cosmetic providers to discuss your goals, assess your suitability, and create a personalized treatment plan.