Dermal fillers can help minimize these signs of aging if youre unhappy with them.

Filler can be used to help lift and add support, she tells SELF.

It can also help soften wrinkles, Dr. Stevenson says.

Woman hand with Syringe on pink background

Paper Boat Creative / Getty Images

Understandably, you might also have concerns about visiting a doctors office during the pandemic.

But below, youll find information experts think you should know about dermal fillers

1.

What exactly are dermal fillers?

As the name implies, they are injected beneath your skin using a needle.

According to theFDA, there are four categories of fillers.

Because it helps skin retain moisture,hyaluronic acidcan make your face look more plump and hydrated.

Juvederm and Restylane are two popular name brand hyaluronic fillers that you may have heard of.

How do I know which dermal filler to try?

a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, tells SELF.

Why do people get dermal fillers?

Generally, people notice the desired changes from other non-surgical procedures, like Botox, after a few days.

One thing to note: Dermal fillers are not FDA-approved for body contouring procedures.

In other words, they shouldnt be used to increase the size of your breasts or butt.

What precautions should I take before getting fillers?

It probably goes without saying, but safety should be your top priority when considering anymedical procedure.

This extra certification step shows that the doctor completed additional training in their particular specialty.

There are risks for issues like infection, discoloration, and lumps if injections are done incorrectly.

Given that this is a cosmetic procedure, you understandably want to be satisfied with the results.

What should I ask my doctor during the consultation?

Dr. Shamban advises requesting before-and-after photographs of real patients from the doctors office.

Every practitioner has different philosophies, techniques, and levels of experience.

And don’t be afraid to ask about your doctors training and certification during the initial consultation.

What are the possible side effects of fillers?

Even non-surgical procedures have their risks.

Again, this is why you want to see an experienced doctor who is skilled in performing the procedure.

7. Who should avoid dermal fillers?

These procedures require pressure and stretching of the face that could potentially misplace fillers.

How much do dermal fillers cost?

If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

If you see a deal forinexpensivefiller, be skeptical.

“Ask to see the box, and look for a safety seal on it.”

The price of these fillers varies depending on the amount of product needed.

They estimate that most patients need more than one syringe to achieve the results theyre looking for.

Are dermal fillers permanent?

“It just goes away.

“But when expertly injected, fillershould look natural.

“The changes we can make are so subtle that nobody would notice,” says Dr. Shamban.

How long will the results last?

After about six months, your body naturally breaks down hyaluronic acid fillers.

So, you have to get touch-ups once or twice a year tomaintain the look.

Additional reporting by Melissa Matthews

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