Skin ExpertsSkin TreatmentsSoft-tissue Fillers for Scars

 

Soft-tissue Fillers for Scars

Soft-tissue fillers – injections commercially known as Juvederm, Radiesse, Restylane and Sculptra – can be used to temporarily improve the appearance of depressed scars.

Soft-tissue fillers are a good choice only for scars that are significantly depressed so they can be elevated by the filler.

Possible Risks

All medical procedures carry some risk. In the past, the most widely used soft-tissue fillers were based on collagen and sometimes required allergy testing prior to treatment. A newer class of hyaluronic acid fillers is based on a sugar found naturally in human skin. Allergic reaction is extremely rare for these fillers. Your ASDS dermatologist will discuss what filler will work best to fulfill your personal goals.

What you should know about soft-tissue fillers for scars

During the procedure, your doctor will mark injection points on the treatment area before cleansing it with an anti-bacterial agent. A topical numbing agent, ice or a local anesthesia is applied to keep you comfortable during the injections. The filler – usually a form of hyaluronic acid or a collagen-stimulating chemical – is injected with a very small needle. Some patients experience stinging or burning as the filler is injected. Some patients may require a series of treatment sessions to achieve desired results.

What to Expect After the Procedure

Patients may experience one or more of the following reactions at the injection sites:

  • Bruising, which may last up to a week
  • Swelling
  • Redness

All soft-tissue fillers are temporary, lasting anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the filler and type of procedure. Some patients require maintenance treatments to achieve the best results.

How to Prepare for the Procedure

Before the procedure, an ASDS dermatologist will review the patient’s medical history. This is the time for the doctor and patient to discuss expectations, potential risks and outcomes of the procedure. You should tell your doctor if you use or have recently taken:

  • Prescription medicines
  • Over-the-counter medicines
  • Herbal supplements