Dermal Fillers

I'm here to show people that they can get filler and still look like themselves

There is a misconception that fillers make you look fake. In my opinion, the best dermal filler is the one no one realizes you’ve had. Your friends and family will notice that you look more refreshed. You may get asked questions like “Are you using a new facial product?” or “Are you getting more sleep recently? You look more refreshed!” That is the goal. You look better and feel more confident, not fake.

Why would I get dermal fillers?

Our faces naturally have fat pads that give us that beautiful volume and contour. As we age, those fat pads as well as the bone structure itself gradually begins to dissolve leading to volume depletion, sagging skin, and wrinkles. We also produce less collagen every year after age 20. Dermal fillers can be used to help replace volume loss and facial support, giving back a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. They can also be used to augment your natural beauty and help improve the shape and symmetry of your features.

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are injected underneath the skin’s surface to smooth wrinkles and add volume or contour to a certain area. The most common type of dermal filler is composed of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in your skin. Although the base structure of hyaluronic acid fillers may be the same, the consistency can be very different. This is important because different areas of the face require different filler consistency. For example, you need a thicker, firmer filler when injecting along the jaw line or cheek, but you want a softer more supple look and feel in the lips. Dr. Bertke will choose the best filler for the planned injection site in order to give you the best, most natural cosmetic result.

How long do fillers last?

Fillers are biodegradable and typically last between 6 months to 2 years depending on the specific product used. Your body will naturally begin to metabolize and break down the product over time. The longevity of your filler depends on the consistency of the specific product used, the area of the face that is injected, and your metabolism of the substance. Cosmetic fillers tend to last longest in areas with less movement. Also, some people naturally metabolize filler quicker than others.

When will I see results?

You will see an immediate difference after injection, but the full effect will gradually develop over the course of about a week. Stay well hydrated. Filler attracts and binds to water to add volume to improve your overall results.

Are the injections painful?

A topical anesthetic is placed on the injection site about 15 minutes prior to the procedure to help minimize discomfort, but you may feel a slight pressure-like sensation as the filler is being injected. Typically the procedure is tolerated very well by most patients. You may have soreness, bruising, and swelling at the injection site for a few days. Tylenol should be enough to manage any discomfort.

Is there any downtime?

Do not apply make-up for the rest of the day to allow your skin to heal. Strenuous exercise and alcohol should be avoided for 24-48 hours as these things can make bruising and swelling worse. You can return to your daily routine immediately after the procedure, but avoid new skin products, facials, peels, micro-dermabrasion, and face down massages for 2 weeks if possible.

Are there any side effects?

As with any invasive procedure there can be side effects and it is important that you understand them before deciding to get a treatment. Do not hesitate to ask questions! We want you to be completely informed about the procedure and risks involved so that you can make the best decision for you. Your safety is out utmost concern. I have trained extensively in these procedures and how to perform them safely.

Facial soreness at the injection site and moderate bruising are common and some areas of the face may bruise more easily than others. As with any invasive procedure there is always risk of infection, but the products are sterile and standard precautionary measures are strictly adhered to.

There are more serious side effects that are very rare, but you need to be aware of. Necrosis can occur if the filler is injected into a blood vessel causing the blood supply to the tissue in that area to be cut off. This is why it is important to seek out a safe and well trained injector that will take steps to minimize the overall risk of something like this happening, but that can also handle the issue quicky and effectively if it occurs. I personally only use hyaluronic fillers because they can be quickly and easily dissolved if a complication arises or you simply no longer want the filler in a certain area.

Who performs my procedure?

I myself, Dr. Megan Bertke perform all procedures, consultations, and follow up appointments.

What can I expect at my appointment?

After a facial assessment and discussion of your aesthetic goals, I will give you specific recommendations and answer any questions you may have about the procedure. I always take photos before and after the procedure for documentation and comparison purposes that will be kept confidential unless you give your expressed consent to use them for any promotional purposes. Once initial photos are taken, I will set up for and perform your injections. This usually takes about 15-25 minutes. After that you have more photos taken and you are good to go. The entire visit usually takes 40 minutes to an hour. The majority of the time is spent talking to you so that you get the best possible outcome and feel completely comfortable with the procedure.

What if I am not sure if dermal fillers are right for me?

That’s what I am here for! Book a consultation with me to discuss your aesthetic goals and have all your questions answered. I make recommendations based on your specific profile, facial features, and aesthetic goals. If at the end of the consultation you wish to proceed with the procedure then I can do it at that time. Sometimes, however, it may be determined that it is not the best fit for you. No problem. You walk away feeling comfortable after making a knowledgeable decision with all of the facts.