Facial Implants Vs. Facial Fillers

Facial implants and facial fillers are both cosmetic options used to alter the appearance of your face to make it look fuller, more defined and more youthful. Dr. Rival offers both procedures as he specializes in facial plastic surgery in Toronto and the surrounding area.

So which one do you choose and how do you decide which might be the better option for you? What are the differences and similarities? In this blog, we discuss this and more. 

What Are Facial Fillers?

Facial dermal fillers are injected into the face to create a fuller, more youthful appearance. It is a minimally invasive procedure that fills in any lines and wrinkles while preventing new ones from forming. You can also use them as cheek fillers, jawline enhances, lip plumpers and much more.

There are a few options out there when it comes to dermal fillers. These brands include some with collagen, hyaluronic acid (HA), and poly-L-lactic acid. Restylane and JUVÉDERM, are both HA fillers while RADIESSE is a calcium hydroxyl-based filler used to treat deeper lines and the loss of volume.

Many people use a combination of fillers and Botox to achieve a few different results:

• Plumping and sculpting of the lips
• Smoothing wrinkles, folds and creases
• Enhancing mid-face volume on the temples, under the eyes, and on the cheeks
• Correcting superficial scars like those caused by acne and chickenpox
• Achieving defined facial structures such as cheek bones and chins 

Temporary dermal fillers can last anywhere between 6-18 months depending on the brand you choose and how your own body adapts to a foregin product. Many people see lasting results for about a year. Your desired look can be maintained with regular treatments throughout the year, or at the 8-12 month mark. The good thing about temporary dermal filler is that as you age and your face shape changes, Dr. Rival and his team can adjust the filler so that it always looks nice and natural. 

Recovery time for temporary dermal fillers is quite minimal, similar to Botox. You will notice some slight bruising and swelling, but you can more or less return to normal life right away. 

What Are Facial Implants?

A facial implant is a small device made of silicone or similar material, that is inserted into the desired location through surgery. These devices do not dissolve and are meant to be a permanent member of your face. Many seek out permanent facial implants to improve the contours of their face. The most commonly done facial implants include:

• Cheekbones
• Jawline
• Chin

Unlike temporary dermal fillers that are just injected, these implants are permanent and a surgical procedure. On the plus side of this, you won’t have to keep returning and paying for upkeep and injections each 8-12 months, when filler typically starts to dissolve. 

It is often recommended that facial implants are paired with other surgeries. For example, Dr. Rival might recommend a facial implant chin augmentation in addition to the rhinoplasty surgery, if he believes this will increase the overall balance and harmony of your face. 

Before you decide on permanent facial implants it is important to consult with a doctor first. They can help you determine if facial implants or temporary fillers can help you achieve your desired results and walk you through the financial cost, as well as side effect risks of both options. For example, a rare but possible risk can be the filler getting into a blood vessel. You might also consider temporary fillers for a while to ensure that you are happy with the look before choosing to go permanent. 

The recovery time for permanent facial implants takes a bit longer as it is a surgery. You will have limited movement of your face and will see a lot of bruising and swelling for about a week, with the total recovery time taking anywhere between 3-6 weeks. 

How To Decide Between Facial Fillers Or Facial Implants?

Now that you know the difference between a temporary filler or a permanent facial implant it is important to compare your options. Consider the following before making a decision:

• Cost (regular maintenance payments vs larger initial payment)
• Recovery time (No downtime vs 6 weeks)
• Lasting results (temporary vs permanent)
• What’s best for your face shape (your bones shrink as you age etc.)

A consultation from Dr. Richard Rival can help you decide as he can take a look at your face, your shape, your desired goals, and if a permanent solution would fit you best or not.  

Ready For A Filler Or Implant Consultation?

If you’re interested in fillers or facial implants, come in for a consultation. Dr. Rival and his team are experts who can help you determine the correct procedure for you while ensuring you are getting exactly what you desire. Ask us any questions or book your consultation today.