Dermal fillers are gaining traction as a minimally invasive way to smooth wrinkles, restore lost volume and subtly enhance facial contours, according to Dr. James Bazzi of Northville Beauty Spa.
“So dermal filler, I want you to think of this as like a gel,” Bazzi said, noting he most often uses the Juvéderm line. “And this is a hyaluronic acid-based filler,” a substance naturally produced by the body, he said.
Fillers are delivered through prefilled syringes using either a traditional needle or a blunt-tip cannula. The cannula, which Bazzi likens to “a straw,” lets providers place filler precisely into targeted tissue planes, including fat pads, to build structure or soften features.
Longevity depends on the product and placement. “It can last anywhere from six months up to two years,” Bazzi said during an appearance on Live in the D. Stronger gels used for structural areas such as the temples, cheeks and jawline tend to last longer, while softer formulations in high-motion areas like the lips typically last closer to six months.
On comfort, Bazzi said most patients rate pain “about a 2 to 3,” and numbing cream helps ease injections. Ideal candidates range from their 30s to mid-60s, he added, though younger and older patients can benefit - especially those who’ve lost facial volume due to weight loss.
“Our goal is to make you look more refreshed, more enhanced,” Bazzi said. “If I can turn back the hands of time, maybe five or ten years … someone who’s not ready to undergo the knife should come and see us and see what options we have for them.”
To watch the segment, click on the video above.
For more information, visit northvillebeautyspa.com.