Would It Be Beneficial To First Try Injectable Fillers Before Getting Facial Implants?

Q: Dr. Eppley, you and I spoke previously about temple implants. cheek implants, and forehead fat grafting. You did some imaging for me as well, and I realize you understand my goals in reshaping my face better than anyone. With this said, I would be interested to see how the overall look of what we discussed previously would first look by using injectable fillers to achieve the results in widening my face and adding more volume.

A: The issue with fillers for augmentation of various facial areas is one of pure volume and the associated costs. When it comes to small areas like the lips (1cc) or even the cheeks (2ccs), voluminization by hyaluronic acid-based fillers is reasonably cost-effective even though the effects will not be permanent. Beyond these volumes one has to look to the use of a filler like Sculptra to achieve a broader or wide-based facial volume effect. While these longer-lasting particulated fillers can achieve better volume enhancement of the cheeks and temples, the need for multiple treatments to achieve their effects and an increased risk of reactions to the implanted ‘seeds’, it is usually better to venture into the realm of injectable fat grafting where there are no volume restrictions or risks of any injectate reactions.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana