Best Dermatologist for Dermal Fillers in San Francisco

Dermal filler in face

If you are looking for a highly skilled, experienced aesthetic dermatologist or surgeon in the San Francisco Bay Area, CA to help restore lost facial volume, smoothen out facial fine lines and wrinkles, or enhance your lip definition for natural and subtle results, look no further! Our expert team of aesthetic skincare professionals at the California Center for Dermatologic Surgery, led by Dr. Ekama Carlson, is here to provide you with expert dermal filler injections tailored to your unique aesthetic goals and facial features. Schedule an appointment for consultation today.

What to Expect

We lose 1% of our skin’s collagen yearly, beginning in our 20s. This results in loss of volume in our facial tissues that can lead to the loose, sagging skin, sunken-in facial features, and the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles on the skin surface that we commonly recognize as signs of facial aging.

There are a number of cosmetic dermatologic and surgical solutions available that address signs of facial aging. These options range from invasive plastic surgery procedures such as facelifts and autologous fat injections (a cosmetic surgery procedure where fat is harvested from one area of a person's body through liposuction and injected into another area for add volume), to minimally invasive injectable treatments with dermal filler.

What is Dermal Filler?

Injection treatment with dermal fillers is a popular non-surgical procedure where a filler product is placed in strategic areas of the skin, such as creases, wrinkles, deep folds, and sunken or hollowed out-appearing areas where there is need for volume restoration and facial rejuvenation.

This minimally-invasive technique, when performed by a qualified physician (a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon is recommended for best results), can be expertly used to address aging concerns such as restoring volume and fullness to sagging areas of the face, enhancing lip shape and fullness (a procedure called lip augmentation), and softening of fine lines, wrinkles and deep folds in the face.

The Procedure

Dermal filler injections can be conveniently done in the doctor's office. In this procedure, a topical numbing cream is applied to the skin for patient comfort. An injectable filler is then administered and strategically placed in precise locations under the skin to ensure even distribution of the filler material and its seamless integration into the natural tissue for optimal and natural results. Depending on the filler type and placement under the skin, the results may either be immediate, or more gradual as the filler settles into place. Longevity of results after dermal filler treatment varies depending on the specific filler used and other individual factors. Generally, results can last from several months to over a year.

Recovery

After the procedure, you may experience mild swelling, redness, tenderness of the injection site, or bruising, all of which are temporary, improve with ice applied to the area, and typically resolve within a few days. There is minimal downtime and recovery associated with this treatment, and you can generally expect to be able to resume your regular activities soon after the procedure. Makeup may be used to cover bruised areas at any time after the procedure.

Safety

Dermal filler injections are considered safe procedures when performed by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a board-certified dermatologist or a plastic surgeon. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, there are potential risks involved with this procedure, especially when done by a non-experienced injector without the necessary training to manage complications that can arise from these treatments. Some of these complications may include infections at the injection site, and unintentional injection of filler material into an undesired location, such as within the walls of a major artery in the face. To minimize the risk of complications with dermal filler injections on the face, it is thus essential to choose a reputable board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon with a strong track record of safety and expertise in facial aesthetics. 

Popular Treatment Areas

The most popular treatment areas for dermal fillers is the face, as this is the most likely area to show the earliest signs of volume loss due to aging. Facial fillers are most commonly used to address volume loss and wrinkles in the following areas: under eye hollows, temples, cheeks, lines around the nose (called nasolabial folds), lines around the corners of the mouth (called Marionette’s lines), vertical lines on the upper lip (called Smokers' lines chin, and jawline. Lip augmentation is another very popular cosmetic procedure. Off the face, the backs of the hands and the neck are popular areas for filler treatments. For best outcomes, dermal fillers are often combined with other injectable treatments such as Botox, xeomin, or dysport, for optimal improvement of areas of the skin where there are numerous fine lines or deeply etched wrinkles often due to repetitive muscle movements and facial expressions. These areas include the upper lip, crows' feet, and forehead.

  • Lip augmentation with dermal fillers is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the shape and volume of the lips. During the treatment, a dermal filler, typically made of hyaluronic acid, is carefully injected into specific areas of the lips to create a fuller and more defined appearance. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring substance in the skin that resembles a smooth gel. In the skin, this naturally occuring substance attracts and holds on to moisture. Hyaluronic acid in the skin is surrounded by collagen and elastin, two structural proteins found in the skin. Together, these substances gives skin its firm structure and supple texture. The most popular dermal fillers used for lip injections are hyaluronic acid-based, which helps to provide the most natural-looking results. Read on to find out more about lip filler.

  • Loss of volume in the mid-face and cheeks is a common sign of aging. This usually manifests as hollowness in the central cheeks as well as the lateral cheeks just below the cheekbones, and folds around the smile lines on the cheeks called the nasolabial folds. Injection of hyaluronic acid fillers in the deeper part of the skin called the dermis in these areas of the cheeks, can help to correct this volume loss for a more youthful appearance. Read on to find out more about cheek filler.

  • Liquid rhinoplasty, also known as non-surgical rhinoplasty or a liquid nose job, is a cosmetic procedure that involves the use of a dermal filler to reshape and contour the nose, enhancing the appearance, projection, and proportions of the nose. Concerns such as a bumps and dips on the nose, asymmetry of the nose, and other irregularities of the nose, may be improved using this technique sometimes without the need for more invasive cosmetic surgery. Read on to find out more about nose filler,

  • Dermal fillers may be used to enhance the appearance of the chin in both men and women. This may be a good option for individuals who are seeking to improve the projection of the chin, balance proportions of the face, or address concerns such as a recessed or “weak” chin. Read on to find out more about this procedure.

  • Similar to the chin, fillers may be used to enhance the appearance and definition of the jawline in both men and women. In this procedure, a topical numbing cream is applied to the skin for patient comfort. A dense hyaluronic acid filler is then injected under the skin, and sculpted along the jawline to provide more definition to this area. Results are immediate and last 6-12 months. Read on to find out more about jawline augmentation with filler.

  • Marionette lines are deep lines on the skin that curve downward from the corners of your mouth to the chin. These lines are a natural part of the aging process and become deeper and more pronounced over time as we age, resulting in the appearance of a downturned smile, or a sad expression. Injection of dermal filler along these lines can be used to smoothen out this area of the face, resulting in a more relaxed appearance.

  • Nasolabial folds, also known as smile or laugh lines, are the natural folds on the skin that curve from the sides of the nose down to the corners of the mouth. These folds become deeper and more noticeable as we age. Dermal fillers injected directly under the skin in the nasolabial folds soften the appearance of these lines, and provides a more youthful look.

  • Tear troughs, also known as under-eye hollows and under-eye bags, refer to the sunken areas under the eyes that extend out from the inner corner of the eye to the upper cheek. These areas become more hollow as we age, and the overlying skin becomes thinner as collagen and elastic tissue is depleted during the aging process. Injection of hyaluronic acid-based fillers in these areas can be used to correct lost volume, and to smoothen out the transition between the under-eye area and the cheek. In many cases, this procedure allows for adequate rejuvenation of the eye area, without the need for eyelid surgery. To minimize bruising during this procedure, this procedure may be done with a blunt-tip cannula rather than a needle. Swelling may occur after the procedure, but this is temporary and resolves after 1-3 days with diligent use of an ice-pack.

About our Non-Surgical Injectables

There are several types of injectable dermal fillers available, each with own unique characteristics, formulation and composition. In general, dermal fillers are grouped into two main categories: hyaluronic acid fillers, and biostimulating fillers.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that binds water, and helps maintain moisture and elasticity in the skin. It is a good option for dermal filler due to its inert nature (less likely to produce inflammation and similar reactions), its established safety profile due to its long history of use in aesthetic dermatology, and its versatility. Hyaluronic acid fillers may vary in formulations and characteristics such as firmness or softness, based on the areas of intended use. For example, hyaluronic acid fillers used for augmenting bony areas such as the jawline and cheek bones are formulated to be more rigid and firm compared to those intended for use in the under eye area, where a softer, more easily flowing gel formulation is beneficial. Examples of hyaluronic acid fillers include Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero.

Biostimulator dermal fillers are compounds that function to stimulate production of a person's own collagen when injected into the skin. Examples of biostimulator dermal fillers are Radiesse and Sculptra. The choice of filler used depends on various factors, including the specific concern being addressed, the desired longevity, and individual patient characteristics. During a filler consultation with a qualified aesthetic professional, such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon, your aesthetic needs will be assessed, and the most appropriate filler to provide the best results for you will be determined.

At CCDS, we take advantage of the latest advancements in injectables research to bring the most current techniques and injectable filler products to our patients. We use only FDA-approved, premium-quality dermal fillers from reputable brands. These fillers are formulated to provide safe, long-lasting results. Our fillers are formulated premixed with a lidocaine anesthetic that helps relieve the pain or discomfort associated with injection sites. When paired with potent topical numbing cream at CCDS, the treatment is nearly painless! See below for injectable fillers offered at our practice.

RHA® Collection

The California Center for Dermatologic Surgery is one of the first practices to offer the RHA collection, the first and only FDA approved hyaluronic acid fillers designed for dynamic wrinkles and folds, which are wrinkles that appear in areas of the face that move repetitively. This collection of dermal fillers is designed to be resilient enough to adapt to the movement of facial muscles, an innovation in hyaluronic acid filler technology that allows for a more natural look both when the face is at rest and in motion. The RHA® collection includes RHA2, RHA3 and RHA4, which are indicated for correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, and the newer RHA Redensity, which is indicated for correction of deep lines and folds around the mouth.

Juvederm Voluma XC

Juvederm Voluma XC is used to add volume to the cheeks and cheekbone for lift and improved contour, which results in an overall improvement in the facial profile. This is one of the longest lasting hyaluronic acid products in the Juvederm family of dermal fillers, with results that last between 18 months and 2 years.

Juvederm Volux XC

Juvederm Volux XC is a firmer hyaluronic acid filler, best used to improve jawline definition. With optimal treatment, results lasts up to 1 year.

Juvederm Ultra Plus XC

Juvederm Ultra Plus XC is used in the treatment of moderate to severe wrinkles and folds around the mouth such as nasolabial folds (“laugh lines”), and Marionette lines. Results last for up to 12 months.

Juvederm Vollure XC

Juvederm Vollure XC is used to add volume for a smoother appearance to moderate and severe wrinkles and folds in the face, such as the deep wrinkles around the nose and mouth called nasolabial folds (“laugh lines”), and Marionette lines. Results last for up to 12 months.

Juvederm Ultra XC

Juvederm Ultra XC is used to correct moderate facial wrinkles and folds. Results last between 6-12 months.

Juvederm Volbella

Juvederm Volbella is a lighter weight hyaluronic acid product used to add volume to the lips for a subtle improvement, without over-plumping. It is also used to soften deep “smoker’s lines” wrinkles around the mouth. Using this product, results last up to one year.

Restylane Silk

Restylane silk is a thinner and smoother hyaluronic acid product than others in the Restylane collection of products, that is used for softening of peri-oral wrinkles commonly referred to as “smokers’ lines”. Results last for up to 6 months.

Restylane and Restylane-L

Restylane and Restylane-L are common hyaluronic acid based fillers used to correct medium-depth wrinkles and folds on the face. Results from one injection typically lasts 6-12 months.

Restylane Lyft

Restylane Lyft is a thicker hyaluronic acid product compared to others within the Restylane collection. Restylane Lyft is best used to used for correction of deeper areas of volume loss where there is need for improved structure, such as for improvement of the contour of the cheekbones. This product may also be injected injection into the backs of the hands to immediately improve the appearance of loose, baggy skin in these areas. Results last 6-12 months.

Restylane Refyne

Restylane Refyne is a hyaluronic acid filler best used for the correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, especially around the nose and mouth, such as nasolabial folds and Marionette lines. Results last 6-12 months.

Restylane Defyne

Restylane Defyne is used for treatment of moderate to deep facial wrinkle and folds. This filler may also be injected directly over bone in the jawline for correction of volume that occurs due to bone loss as a result of aging. This product provides for a natural looking augmentation of the chin region, and improvement of the chin profile and contour.

Restylane Kysse

Restylane Kysse is a softer hyaluronic acid product that is used to improve volume of the lips. This product is also used for softening of peri-oral wrinkles commonly referred to as “smokers’ lines”

Restylane Contour

Restylane Contour is used for augmentation of the cheekbones and contour, which are areas where we naturally lose volume over time as a result of the aging process. Results last 6-12 months.

Radiesse

Radiesse is made of calcium hydroxyapatite, which is a compound similar to the calcium in your bones and teeth. Radiesse is a dermal filler that works to plump up areas of moderate to several volume loss such as deep facial wrinkles and folds, and saggy, loose skin on the backs of the hands. In addition to its role as an immediate filler to injected areas, this product also functions as a biostimulator, which means that it stimulates new production of your body’s own collagen. It is the only filler that is FDA-approved for hand rejuvenation.

Sculptra

Sculptra is a dermal filler made of a compound called poly-L-lactic acid. Unlike other fillers used to treat wrinkles, sculptra is a biostimulator, which means that when injected into the skin, it stimulates your own body to produce new collagen in the skin, which creates a gradual, subtle, more natural correction of wrinkles and deep folds, and improvement in the appearance of sagging skin and laxity. Because Sculptra is a bio-stimulator and not an immediate filler, it takes some time to achieve visible results. Treatment is usually performed once a month until results are achieved. Once results are achieved, they last longer than those achieved with most hyaluronic acid fillers.

Are Fillers Right For Me?

Dermal fillers are a great, minimally invasive way to add volume to areas of the skin where there is volume loss, sagging, and skin laxity due to the natural aging process. When done by a board-certified dermatologist, who is the best trained professional to avoid and treat potential complications of this cosmetic treatment, it is a safe, effective, and convenient way to quickly restore youthful contours and add harmony and volume to the aging face. As with any cosmetic treatment, it is best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist to discuss your cosmetic needs. During this consultation, the doctor will not only determine if dermal fillers is the right treatment for you, but will also customize a treatment plan for you based on your individual needs, including determining the right type and amount of dermal filler that you may need to produce the best results.

Before and After Photos

Interested in seeing what kind of results you can achieve with dermal fillers? Take a look at some before and after photos below

RHA filler in smile lines
RHA filler in smile and laugh lines
Before and after under eye filler

Our Office Serves the Entire San Francisco Bay Area Including Oakland, Berkeley, Marin County, the Peninsula and Beyond

With a convenient location in San Francisco, complete with self and complimentary valet parking, our office serves the entire San Francisco Bay Area. Schedule a cosmetic consultation for dermal fillers with Dr. Carlson today.