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  • Writer's pictureDr. Chuck Lortie MD, FRCPC, FAAD

What is Filler?

Updated: Mar 21, 2023

Dermal fillers are clear gel-like injectable cosmetic products that have grown tremendously in popularity due to their ability to rejuvenate the appearance of the face, neck and hands.


Young skin is naturally supported by the dermis, a soft deeper layer of skin. It lies just beneath the epithelial surface and contains an abundance of hyaluronic acid (HA). This normal component of the dermis binds significant amounts of water giving youthful skin a smooth, dewy and resilient texture. Unfortunately, as the skin ages, the amount of hyaluronic acid in the skin also fades.


What does filler do?

As hyaluronic acid levels wane with time, the resulting volume loss can lead to some of the common signs of aging. These include loss of the high and rounded cheeks, the development of smile lines and marionette lines, as well as the squaring of the lower face with the development of jowls. Fortunately, dermal fillers are very helpful in blunting or even reversing these changes!


What is the best filler in Sherwood Park?

Locally, the most common fillers contain replenishing hyaluronic acids that can literally fill the gap when intrinsic HA levels begin to decline. The best products are highly cross-linked to prevent the bodies enzymes from breaking them down. This increases how long the effect of the injections will last. There are currently over 30 varieties of dermal HA filler available in Canada.


What is a fillers G prime number?

Some hyaluronic acid fillers are formulated to give a specific level of lift. A numeric value is assigned to distinguish this stiffness, also know as G Prime (G’). The higher the G’, the firmer (less watery) the filler is. Stiff filler allows for more projection and may be desirable when the filler is utilized in the cheeks or around the chin region. Conversely, softer fillers with a lower G’ may be more desirable to enhance the lips. In this area, a more supple texture can translate to a more voluptuous appearance.


How much does filler cost in Sherwood Park?

The price point for high quality, cosmetic HA dermal filler will depend on the site of injection, the volume utilized, the expertise of the injector and the duration of the products effect. As a guideline, an injection of filler (~0.5 to 1 ml) may cost between $350 and $650. Cosmetic fillers are generally very safe, but the final aesthetic result may be influenced by the level of training of the injector.


Are filler injections painful?

Filler can be injected very comfortably with the proper technique. Local anesthetic is often introduced to numb the skin at the injection site. The use of cannulas (with blunt tips) to inject the filler also helps to ensure the procedure is well tolerated. Most cosmetic fillers now also contain local anesthetic mixed in with the product for an extra level of comfort. Finally, sensitive areas such as the lips, can be pre-treated with custom topical anesthetic to be sure the experience is a positive one.


Who should inject filler in Sherwood Park?

Regulations in Canada vary by province, but generally a medical doctor or nurse with appropriate licencing and training may inject dermal fillers in Alberta.


For your reassurance, dermal filler treatments at Park Dermatology are under the expert supervision of our dermatologist, a double board-certified skin specialist with additional procedural and surgical fellowship training and many years of experience.

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