Each filler brand has unique properties optimized for specific areas. Juvéderm products use Vycross technology for smooth, long-lasting results – Voluma for cheeks (up to 2 years), Volbella for lips (12-18 months), and Skinvive for overall skin quality. Restylane uses NASHA technology with excellent versatility – Kysse for natural lip enhancement, Contour for cheek definition, and Lyft for dramatic volume. RHA fillers are the newest technology, designed to move naturally with facial expressions. Dr. Winnard will recommend the optimal product based on your treatment area, desired longevity, and aesthetic goals.

Filler longevity varies by product type, placement area, and individual factors. Generally, lip fillers last 6-12 months, nasolabial folds 12-18 months, and cheek fillers 18-24 months. Areas with more movement (lips) metabolize fillers faster than static areas (cheeks). Individual factors affecting duration include metabolism, exercise level, age, and the amount of product used. Skinvive, designed for skin quality, lasts about 6 months. Most patients find that regular maintenance treatments help extend results and may require less product over time.

Most patients find filler treatments quite comfortable. Many modern fillers contain lidocaine (a local anesthetic) to minimize discomfort during injection. We also offer topical numbing cream and can use additional local anesthesia for sensitive areas like lips. You'll feel pressure and mild stinging during injection, but pain is typically minimal and brief. The entire treatment usually takes 15-45 minutes depending on areas treated. Some immediate swelling and minor bruising are normal and resolve within a few days.

When expertly placed, dermal fillers should enhance your natural features subtly. The key is conservative dosing, proper product selection, and understanding facial anatomy. We follow the "less is more" philosophy, often starting with smaller amounts and building gradually over multiple sessions. Natural results come from restoring lost volume and enhancing existing features rather than dramatically changing your appearance. During consultation, we'll discuss your goals and show you expected outcomes to ensure results that look refreshed and naturally beautiful.

Dermal fillers have excellent safety profiles when administered by experienced providers. Common temporary side effects include swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness lasting 2-7 days. Rare complications include infection, asymmetry, or vascular compromise (extremely rare with proper technique). All our hyaluronic acid fillers are reversible with hyaluronidase if needed. We'll review your medical history, discuss any blood-thinning medications, and provide detailed pre- and post-care instructions to minimize risks and optimize results.

Yes, dermal fillers work excellently in combination with other treatments for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Popular combinations include fillers with neurotoxins (addressing both volume loss and dynamic wrinkles), laser treatments for skin texture, or biostimulators for long-term collagen building. Generally, we recommend doing filler treatments first, allowing 2 weeks before adding neurotoxins, and timing laser treatments appropriately. Some patients benefit from staged treatments over several months. We'll create a personalized treatment plan that maximizes results while ensuring safe healing between procedures.