Dermal Fillers at Refine Dermatology
Non-Surgical Volume, Contour & Enhancement
Dermal fillers are one of the most versatile and transformative non-surgical treatments available. Whether you’re looking to restore lost volume, enhance lip shape, soften lines, or improve facial contours, dermal fillers are a great option.
At Refine Dermatology, our providers bring expert technique, thoughtful product selection, and a subtle aesthetic eye to every injectable treatment.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to temporarily add or restore volume, smooth lines, and improve facial proportions without surgery. As we age, our skin naturally loses collagen, fat, and hyaluronic acid — a molecule that helps retain moisture and volume. This loss can lead to wrinkles, hollow areas, and flattened contours.
Dermal fillers help replace that lost volume and support the tissue to rejuvenate the face, creating a more youthful, refreshed look. At Refine Dermatology, we focus on hyaluronic acid-based fillers, which are naturally derived, compatible with your body, and reversible if needed.
What Are Fillers Made Of?
Most of the fillers we use are made from hyaluronic acid (HA). This is a substance naturally found in your skin, joints, and connective tissue. Because HA is part of your body already, it’s very well-tolerated and doesn’t require allergy testing prior to treatment.
HA fillers attract and bind water, giving them a hydrating effect and a soft, natural feel. They’re extremely versatile and can be used in multiple areas of the face, from lips and cheeks to chin and temples.
How Do Dermal Fillers Work?
Here is what a typical filler appointment looks like:
1. Consultation: One of our providers will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and recommend the right products and plan.
2. Preparation: Topical anesthetic is applied. Depending on the area treated, lidocaine may be injected locally to help ensure comfort.
3. Injection: Using precise technique, filler is placed in strategic areas to restore volume, contour, or smooth lines.
4. Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities almost immediately. Some swelling or bruising may occur but subsides quickly.
What Areas Can Be Treated with Fillers?
Dermal fillers aren’t one-size-fits-all. Different products and techniques allow us to address:
Lips
Enhance hydration, definition, and volume with subtle shape improvement.
Cheeks
Restore youthful fullness and lift, which can diminish the appearance of aging cheeks.
Nasolabial Folds & Marionette Lines
Smooth lines around the mouth and soften shadows.
Jawline & Chin
Create definition and balance for a more sculpted profile.
Under-Eye Hollows (Tear Troughs)
Improve dark shadows and hollows for a more rested look.
Each area responds differently based on movement and depth of placement. This also influences how long results last.
What Can I Expect During a Treatment?
Most patients find filler injections very tolerable. We use a strong topical anesthetic and often incorporate local lidocaine to numb the area. You might feel some pressure or quick pinches, but most describe it as very tolerable.
A treatment session typically lasts 15–30 minutes, depending on areas treated.
Patients can usually go about their day right after treatment. However, we will send you home with a bit of aftercare and common precautions.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
It depends on the area treated and the specific product used. Most HA fillers last 6 months to 18 months — with many cheek and structural fillers lasting up to two years in some individuals.
General expectations by area include:
● Lips: Around 6–12 months due to movement and mobility.
● Cheeks & Chin: Often 12–24 months as these areas are less mobile and deeper.
● Lines & Folds: Typically 9–18 months depending on movement and depth.
Every person’s metabolism is different, and factors like lifestyle and muscle movement can affect longevity.
Are Fillers Safe?
Dermal fillers are considered very safe if injected by a trained professional. Using hyaluronic acid adds another layer of safety because these products are reversible and can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if necessary.
As with any injectable treatment, there are minor risks like swelling, bruising, or temporary tenderness. Serious complications are rare but are why choosing a trained medical professional matters.
Aftercare & Recovery
Most patients experience minimal downtime. Here’s what to expect:
● Swelling: Normal and usually improves significantly within 24–48 hours.
● Bruising: Mild bruising can occur; avoiding blood thinners like alcohol and NSAIDs before treatment can reduce this risk.
Dermal Fillers FAQs
Q: Does it hurt?
A: Most patients find fillers very tolerable with topical numbing and local anesthetic. You may feel pressure or brief pinches, but discomfort is usually mild.
Q: Will I bruise?
A: Lips and other areas may bruise due to the rich blood supply — but it’s usually mild and short-lived. Avoiding certain medications and supplements before treatment helps.
Q: How long before I see results?
A: You’ll see immediate improvement, though some swelling can make the area look more pronounced at first. Final results typically settle within 2 weeks.
Q: Is it reversible?
A: Yes. HA fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if adjustments or corrections are needed.
Q: How long do fillers last?
A: Most last between 6–18 months, with deeper structural areas often lasting up to two years.
Q: Can I combine fillers with other treatments?
A: Yes! Many patients combine fillers with neurotoxins or skin rejuvenation for a full refresh.
Ready to Learn More?
A consultation with one of our providers is the best way to discover which fillers are right for your unique goals.
Contact us to schedule your appointment!
