Fillers
Written by Dr. Ringpfeil
Our facial structure gradually changes over time due to volume loss, reduced elasticity, and shifts in underlying support. Dr. Ringpfeil’s dermal fillers restore volume, enhance contours, and achieve natural-looking rejuvenation with minimal downtime in Philadelphia.
Lifting Fillers
Want it or not, our facial contour changes over the years. When we look in the mirror, it may seem like invisible weights are pulling down on our cheeks, giving us an unflattering “droopy” face. All layers of our face are affected by atrophy. The skin becomes less elastic. The natural fat in our cheeks that is abundant during our youth gradually diminishes. Muscles show more prominently due to the reduced draping by the overlying fat layer. The skull becomes thinner and changes its shape, allowing the muscle and fat to lose their original position.
The result is loss of midfacial contour, accentuation of nasolabial folds, grooves on the side of the chin (marionette lines), and jowl formation. Endurance sports, weight loss, and certain medications can cause prominent cheek hollows.
Lifting fillers are designed to restore structural support and volume to the midface, creating a natural-looking lift without surgery. They work deeper within the facial tissues to reposition and support.
Many fillers are made of synthetic hyaluronic acid which is identical to human hyaluronic acid. The manufacturer’s addition of a small amount of anesthetic makes injections painless. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers are safe and effective alternatives to fat augmentation, cheek or chin implants, and to a surgical facelift. They are routinely used in conjunction with a facelift, which is still the strongest modality to lift but falls short on restoring facial volume.
Fat transfer provides beautiful results when subcutaneous fat has been depleted but it is not strong enough to create a lift. In many ways, the large portfolio of hyaluronic acid-based fillers provides one stop results when you want to avoid the surgical suite or operating room. Results are immediate and will often last many months. A touch-up 2–3 months later will make results even more durable.
Hyaluronic acid-based fillers are eventually degraded by our body’s own hyaluronidase enzyme.
Juvederm Voluma
Juvederm Voluma adds subtle volume to the midface and cheeks, restoring contour and creating a natural lifting effect. It is commonly used to address volume loss that contributes to flattening of the cheeks and deepening of folds.
Results are immediate, with improvement in facial contour and overall balance. Mild swelling or bruising may occur and typically resolves within several days. To maintain results, treatment is generally repeated every 6–12 months.
Restylane Lyft
Restylane Lyft provides structure and lift to the cheeks and midface, improving facial balance and softening deeper folds such as the nasolabial folds.
Results are typically visible shortly after treatment, with full effects appreciated within several days. Some swelling or bruising may occur and can last up to 1–2 weeks. Results usually last between 6–12 months, depending on the treatment area and individual response.
Radiesse
Radiesse is a volumizing filler used to restore structure and improve deeper areas of volume loss. It is often selected for patients who require more support in areas affected by significant atrophy.
Results are immediate, with continued improvement as the product integrates into the tissue. Mild swelling or bruising may occur following treatment. Results typically last 6–12 months, with maintenance treatments recommended to preserve outcomes.
Contouring Fillers
Contouring fillers are used to define and sculpt facial features such as the jawline, chin, and overall facial shape. While lifting fillers focus on restoring volume and repositioning deeper structures, contouring fillers enhance definition and refine facial proportions.
You can regain your youthful appearance by reducing deep facial wrinkles, restoring volume, and improving facial contours with fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero Balance. These treatments have replaced what was once only possible with invasive surgeries or facial implants.
With no downtime, contouring fillers provide noticeable improvements in facial definition. The effects are typically appreciated within 1–10 days after injection.
After several months, these synthetic hyaluronic acid fillers are naturally degraded by our body’s own hyaluronidase enzyme. To maintain results, these fillers need to be renewed every 6–9 months.
Juvederm Volux
Juvederm Volux is designed to enhance jawline definition and improve lower face contour. It provides structure and projection, helping to create a more defined and balanced facial profile.
Results are visible shortly after treatment, with continued refinement as swelling subsides. Mild swelling and bruising may occur and generally resolve within several days. Results typically last 6–12 months, depending on individual factors.
Restylane Contour
Restylane Contour is used to refine and balance facial structure while maintaining natural movement. It is often used to enhance facial definition without creating a heavy or overfilled appearance.
Results are noticeable soon after treatment, with optimal results developing over the following days. Temporary swelling or bruising may occur and usually resolves within 1–2 weeks. Results generally last around 6–12 months.
Belotero Balance
Belotero Balance is ideal for smoothing fine lines and treating delicate areas with more superficial placement. It integrates smoothly into the skin, making it well-suited for subtle contouring and refinement.
Results are visible shortly after treatment. Mild swelling or redness may occur and typically resolves within a few days. Results generally last approximately 6–9 months, depending on the treatment area.
Why Choose Dr. Ringpfeil for Dermal Fillers in Philadelphia?
Dermal filler treatments require a refined understanding of facial anatomy, volume distribution, and aesthetic balance. Dr. Franziska Ringpfeil, a board-certified dermatologist, brings over two decades of experience in using a wide range of fillers, including Juvederm®, Restylane®, and Belotero®, to restore structure and enhance natural contours.
All filler treatments are performed by Dr. Ringpfeil or a dermatology-trained physician assistant under her direct supervision. This ensures that product selection, placement depth, and injection technique are guided by medical expertise and a detailed understanding of facial aging.
Each treatment plan is individualized, taking into account areas of volume loss, facial symmetry, and long-term aesthetic goals. The focus is on restoring proportion and definition without creating an overfilled or artificial appearance. Patients choose Ringpfeil Advanced Dermatology for dermal fillers because of our precision, conservative approach, and commitment to results that appear balanced, natural, and consistent over time.
Side Effects
Treatment is easy and safe for nearly everyone. We use knowledge of anatomy, slow injection technique, and microcannulas in all areas where we can avoid sharp needles.
- Swelling can last for 3–7 days and is inversely correlated to the depth of the filler. The more superficial the filler, the more likely you will notice some swelling.
- Bruising can last for 10–20 days and can be covered by makeup. On occasions, we will perform laser treatment to speed up resolution.
- Loss of results after several months. Hyaluronic acid fillers are naturally degraded by our body’s own hyaluronidase enzyme. Replenishment will restore results and is customized to your needs over time.
Treatment with fillers such as Restylane, Juvederm, and Belotero Balance is generally well tolerated, although some swelling, redness, and bruising may occur and can last up to 14 days.
Contraindications
The only contraindication to these fillers is an allergy to the numbing medicine, xylocaine, which is factory premixed except for Belotero Balance.
An allergy to hyaluronic acid is almost impossible. However, those with a myriad of allergies are not suited to receive filler injections, as their immune system may already be overactive.
Post Procedure Instructions
We will apply ice at the conclusion of the procedure to reduce bruising.
- Wait one hour before applying sunscreen or makeup
- Avoid massaging the injected area unless instructed
- Sleep elevated on two pillows and on your back to reduce swelling
- Avoid heavy-duty workouts or strenuous activity for 24 hours
Price List
| price / syringe | lasts (months) | # treatments | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Juvederm Ultra / Ultra Plus | $680 (1.0 ml) | 6-12 | 1 |
| Voluma | $880 (1.0 ml) | 24 | 1 |
| Volbella | $750 (1.0 ml) | 18 | 1 |
| Volbella (Half Syringe) | $480 (0.55 ml) | 18 | 1 |
| Vollure | $750 (1.0 ml) | 18 | 1 |
| Boletero | $680 (1.0 ml) | 6-9 | 1 |
| Restylane | $600 (1.0 ml) | 6-9 | 1 |
| Radiesse | $920 (1.5 ml) | 6-12 | 1 |
| Restylane | $600 (1.0 ml) | 6-9 | 1 |
| Artefill | $900 (0.8 ml) | Permanent | 1-2 |
Purchase of a full syringe is required. When only a partial syringe is needed, the remainder can be injected to another area.
Cost
During the consultation, we will provide you with an estimate of the number of syringes needed to achieve your goals.
Please also see our price sheet for an up-to-date list of the fillers we use and their price. Our syringe price includes both the professional artistic component and the material.
Purchase of a full syringe is required. When only a partial syringe is needed, the remainder can be injected into another area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Juvederm Voluma and Restylane Lyft?
Juvederm Voluma and Restylane Lyft are both lifting fillers used to restore volume in the cheeks and midface.
While they can be used in similar areas, they differ slightly in formulation and how they integrate into the tissue. Both provide natural-looking lift and improved facial contour, and the choice between them depends on your anatomy and treatment goals.
What is the difference between Juvederm and Restylane?
Juvederm and Restylane are both hyaluronic acid-based fillers that restore volume and smooth wrinkles. The main difference lies in how the hyaluronic acid is cross-linked, which affects texture, spread, and longevity.
The downtime and durability of Restylane and Juvederm differ slightly due to the different amounts of cross-linked hyaluronic acid in each. Both have their place, and while they can be used in the same areas, one may be preferred over the other depending on the specific treatment.
Which filler is best for under-eye hollows?
Restylane and its finer counterpart, Restylane Silk, work well for under-eye troughs. Belotero Balance is also often used for this delicate area, especially if hollows remain after structural support to the upper cheek has been restored with lifting fillers.
Which fillers are best for lip enhancement?
Whether you want a subtle increase in lip definition or fuller lips, options such as Juvederm Volbella, Revanesse Lips, Belotero Balance, and Restylane Kiss are all effective choices.
Each filler offers slightly different characteristics, and selection depends on your desired outcome and natural lip anatomy.
How long do dermal fillers last?
Results are immediate and typically last between 6–12 months, depending on the filler used and the treatment area.
Some fillers may last closer to 6–9 months, while others provide longer-lasting results. Maintenance treatments are recommended to preserve results over time.
Are dermal fillers safe?
Dermal fillers are safe and effective when performed by experienced providers. Many are made of hyaluronic acid, which is identical to a substance naturally found in the body.
These fillers are gradually broken down by the body’s own hyaluronidase enzyme over time.
How do I choose the right filler?
The best filler depends on the area being treated, the degree of volume loss, and your aesthetic goals.
During your consultation, your provider will recommend the most appropriate filler based on your anatomy and desired outcome.
Patients ask Dr. Ringpfeil answers
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