Cosmetic Facial Fillers

The simplest and least expensive method of facial contouring is by the use of a temporary, injectable filler. The injection of temporary fillers is performed in the office, with or without a topical anesthetic or nerve block.

Dr. Harriman uses only temporary fillers made from hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that naturally creates volume in the skin. Since this product does not involve the use of foreign substances, allergies are extremely rare and a skin test is not required. Results can last for up to 12 months depending on the area injected. It has been found that injections also stimulate your own collagen to form resulting in improvement of your skin long term. Hyaluronic acid injections are extremely safe and unlike with permanent fillers there it is rare to have a foreign body reaction. Since the substance in a permanent filler is not biodegradable, it will stay in your body presumably forever. Although this may seem like an ideal permanent solution to facial contouring, your body’s reaction to the foreign material is unpredictable and some of these products can be toxic. For the best, safest and most natural looking result Dr. Harriman injects only temporary fillers. She also often injects using a cannula technique which minimizes the risk of bruising and complications.