Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines and soften creases, enhance facial contours, and improve symmetry. They are ideal for augmentation, replacing volume loss, and improving facial structure. At Precision, we utilize both hyaluronic acid (HA) and Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) dermal fillers.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that is already found in your skin. It helps keep skin plump and hydrated. HA fillers are formed from these particles and are typically soft and gel-like, mimicking the tissue’s natural feel, contour, and movement.

Calcium hydroxylapatite is also a naturally occurring substance, found primarily in our bones. When used in a filler, the calcium particles are nearly microscopic and suspended in a smooth gel. The consistency of a CaHA filler is typically thicker than that of a hyaluronic acid filler and typically lasts longer as well. Calcium hydroxylapatite is also reported to help stimulate natural collagen production, and it is typically used for deeper lines and wrinkles.

Risks include injection site reactions, infection, lumps, asymmetries, skin discoloration, migration of implant material, nerve damage, swelling, bruising, allergic reaction, reactivation of herpes, and tissue necrosis, heart attack, stroke, or blindness caused by vascular occlusion.
The risk of vascular occlusion is mitigated at Precision by utilizing doppler and ultrasound technology to ensure the safety of our patients. Our nurse injectors at Precision have a vast knowledge of facial anatomy and rheology of injectables. We have adverse reaction protocols in place and have extensively trained our injectors to respond to these events. Your injector will also follow up with you post treatment, either via phone or at the in person follow-up. At Precision, the safety of our clients is paramount.

HA fillers can be reversed with hyaluronidase in the event of patient dissatisfaction, safety concerns, or injector discretion.

Patients can expect mild to moderate swelling post treatment. Due to its intricate vasculature, there is also always the possibility of bruising when injecting the face. The level of swelling and potential of bruising is highly dependent on the area treated. Your injector will give you a more detailed explanation of what to expect after your appointment depending on their treatment plan.

• Active herpes
• Pregnancy or nursing
• Lidocaine allergy

Filler duration is highly variable. It is dependent on many factors including, age, sex, tissue condition, sun exposure, and rate of metabolism. On average, hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers last between 6-12 months. Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) dermal fillers have an average duration of 12 months. The body gradually and naturally absorbs the filler particles over time.

• Avoid taking medications such as Aspirin, Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, oral Vitamin E, NSAIDs, and some supplements such as fish oils for 10 days prior to treatment to reduce the risk of bleeding and bruising
• If you are taking anticoagulation medications, discuss the use of these medications with your healthcare provider prior to your treatment.
• If you are prone to cold sores (oral herpes simplex), take your prescribed medication (Famvir, Famciclovir, Valtrex, Valacyclovir, Acyclovir) as prescribed in the 24 hours prior to your treatment

• Avoid applying pressure or touching the treated area for 6 hours after the procedure
• Avoid vigorous scrubs, exfoliation, or facial treatment in the area of treatment for 72 hours
• Avoid microdermabrasion or vibradermabrasion for 72 hours after
• Avoid prolonged exposure to directly sunlight or UV/tanning beds for 72 hours after the procedure
• Avoid manipulation of the area following the injection unless specifically instructed otherwise by your healthcare practitioner
• For pain/discomfort, use cool packs and over-the-counter analgesics (acetaminophen, Tylenol)
• Oral or topical Arnica Montana, an herbal supplement, may help with reducing swelling. DO NOT take Arnica Montana if you have liver or kidney problems.
• Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Advil, St. John’s Wort, oral Vitamin E, and NSAIDs may promote the risk of bruising and bleeding in the injection area
• If you are prone to cold sores (oral herpes simplex), take your prescribed medication (Famvir, Famciclovir, Valtrex, Valacyclovir, Acyclovir) as prescribed for the 24 hours after your treatment.
• If signs and symptoms of infection persist (warmth at the injection site, discharge/pus, pain/discomfort) or if you develop a fever, please contact our office so our staff may assist you

Results can often be seen immediately.
In addition to providing volume, CaHA fillers stimulate collagen and elastin which will improve skin texture and elasticity over time.

Patients are topically numbed in all cases, and, if indicated, injectors can administer a nerve block prior to treatment. Most HA fillers are infused with lidocaine to help minimize discomfort during and after treatment. Additionally, our injectors utilize a number of non-invasive techniques such as distraction, stress balls, and fans to reduce discomfort.

At Precision, our nurse injectors focus on providing the most natural results, utilizing only the amount of product absolutely necessary to achieve symmetry, balance, contour, and youthful restoration. We respect natural anatomy and utilize our skills and available services to enhance and compliment each patient individually.