Dermal fillers are an increasingly popular cosmetic solution for facial rejuvenation, offering transformative results without the need for surgery. Whether softening lines or restoring volume, fillers can enhance natural beauty and provide a confidence boost with minimal downtime. At NM Aesthetics in Arlington, VA, we’re committed to using advanced techniques and high-quality fillers for results that look and feel natural. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how fillers work, where they’re commonly used, and what to expect when considering a filler treatment.

Understanding Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to add volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. They come in various formulations, each suited to specific areas of the face or body and unique aesthetic goals.

Types of Dermal Fillers

Two primary types of fillers are commonly used: hyaluronic acid (HA) and calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse).

• Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers: Naturally found in the skin, hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture and elasticity. HA fillers are popular for their smooth, natural-looking results and can be dissolved if needed. At NM Aesthetics, we often use Restylane, an HA filler that works well in areas like the cheeks, chin, jawline, temples, lips, and nasolabial folds. It can also be used as a biostimulator in certain body areas like hip dips and buttocks.
• Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse): Radiesse is typically used for the cheeks, chin, jawline, and hands. It has a firmer texture, creating sharp contours and is often favored for long-lasting definition. Unlike HA fillers, Radiesse is not dissolvable, so it requires careful consideration before use. We often combine Radiesse with saline as a biostimulator to encourage collagen production for gradual, natural enhancement. (Stay tuned for more information on biostimulators in our upcoming blog posts!)

Benefits of Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers serve multiple purposes, from enhancing volume and reducing wrinkles to contouring and balancing facial features. One standout procedure we offer is the Fern Pattern Technique, which stimulates collagen and elastin production, giving the skin a natural lift and resilience. Whether enhancing the cheekbones or restoring volume to tired areas, dermal fillers offer a versatile, customizable approach to facial rejuvenation.

Common Areas for Dermal Filler Use

• Lips: Lip fillers enhance volume and shape for a fuller, more defined look. We prioritize a natural approach, customizing techniques to each client’s anatomy to avoid exaggerated results. Lip fillers can also improve symmetry and reduce fine lines around the mouth, providing a soft, youthful effect. Our team has expertise in enhancing various lip shapes, with our owner, Megan Francis, NP, MSN, AGPCNP-BC, even traveling to Norway to train with world-renowned lip trainer Julie Horne, where she focused on advanced techniques, especially for enhancing M-shaped lips.
• Cheeks: Aging can cause volume loss in the mid-face, resulting in hollow or sunken cheeks. Dermal fillers restore volume, enhance shape, and lift surrounding areas, creating a harmonious and rejuvenated appearance.
• Nasolabial Folds: Nasolabial folds, or smile lines, run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth and may deepen with age. With the Fern procedure, we’re able to gently add volume to these folds, softening their appearance for a more youthful look—while maintaining the natural movement and expressions you love. This approach ensures a refined result, without the need for traditional filler.
• Marionette Lines: Vertical lines extending from the corners of the mouth can give a downturned appearance. The fern treatment can lift these lines, enhancing both emotional and aesthetic aspects of the face, resulting in a softer, more pleasant appearance.
• Jawline and Chin: A defined jawline and chin are essential for balanced facial proportions. Fillers in these areas enhance definition, refine contours, and improve symmetry, resulting in a more harmonious and striking profile. Chin shadowing is also a key area we treat to add depth and structure to the lower face.
• Tear Troughs: Hollow or sunken tear troughs can make the face appear tired. Dermal fillers rejuvenate and brighten the under-eye area, helping clients look more alert and refreshed. We recommend cheek fillers before treating the tear troughs to support the under-eye area. In some cases, clients may also need PRF for thin skin before filler treatment to ensure optimal results.
• 8-Point Lift: The 8-point lift, also known as facial balancing, involves targeting multiple points on the face to provide balanced facial rejuvenation. This technique focuses on areas like the cheeks, jawline, and nasolabial folds, offering a lifted, youthful appearance without the need for invasive surgery.

For our entire menu of dermal fillers or to see the procedure in action, learn more here or request a consultation with one of our skilled injection specialists here.

The Filler Treatment Process

Consultation

A successful filler treatment begins with a consultation to understand each client’s unique needs and goals. Our practitioners evaluate skin type, medical history, and facial structure to create a personalized treatment plan.

Treatment Experience

For lip and Fern treatments, we prioritize comfort with the use of topical anesthetic. If desired, Pronox (a light gas) is also available for added comfort. A typical filler session lasts between 45 minutes and an hour or more, depending on the areas being treated.

Post-Treatment Expectations

Post-treatment effects may include swelling, bruising, and redness, which are common and can be managed with proper aftercare. Recovery times vary, with lip fillers generally taking the longest to heal. Most clients notice improvements within a few days, though complete healing may take a few weeks to months as the body adjusts.

Maintaining Results After Treatment

To maximize the longevity of dermal fillers, we recommend follow-up appointments to continue assessing your needs and to determine the best plan of care based on your goals and budget. These visits ensure we can tailor the approach as necessary and keep everything aligned with your preferences. Incorporating a high-quality aftercare routine is essential for preserving results, with products like Julie Horne The Balm, Alastin Restorative Skin Complex, Alastin Post-Injection Serum, and Frens of Frens Cooling Face and Body Serum offering targeted benefits.

At NM Aesthetics, we also offer supportive red light therapy products like the Omnilux Contour Mask and Omnilux Skin Corrector (browse all of our Omnilux products here), along with Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar and other serums designed to protect and extend the effects of your fillers. Sun protection is particularly important, as UV exposure can accelerate the breakdown of fillers.

Why Choose NM Aesthetics for Dermal Filler Treatments

Choosing the right provider for dermal filler treatments is key. At NM Aesthetics, our team offers:

• Expertise: Our practitioners have extensive experience in facial aesthetics, ensuring safe, satisfying treatments.
• Advanced Techniques: We stay at the forefront of cosmetic advancements, using the latest techniques and products to achieve natural-looking results. Our team regularly trains under the best injectors, both nationally and internationally, with Megan serving as a national trainer herself.
• Personalized Approach: We customize each treatment plan to enhance natural beauty while achieving the desired results.
• Comfortable Environment: We provide a welcoming environment that enhances the treatment experience. We also offer add-ons like Pronox or topical anesthetics for added comfort.

Your Path to Enhanced Beauty Starts Here

At NM Aesthetics, we’re here to help you achieve a rejuvenated appearance through personalized filler treatments. If you’re considering dermal fillers to boost confidence, improve symmetry, or simply look more youthful, request an appointment with us or call our practice at (571) 310-3223.