Dermal fillers and injectables have become some of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments for restoring skin’s volume, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, and enhancing your natural features. At Savannah River Dermatology, we offer Botox®, JUVÉDERM®, and other FDA-approved fillers in a safe, medical setting overseen by trained professionals. Whether you’re new to cosmetic treatments or looking to maintain your results, our goal is to help you feel confident, informed, and comfortable every step of the way.
Dermal fillers work by replenishing lost volume, softening wrinkles, and enhancing facial contours, while neuromodulators like Botox help relax muscles that cause expression lines. Treatments are customized to each patient’s facial anatomy and aesthetic goals for natural-looking results.
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked patient questions about fillers and injectables.
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable treatments designed to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial features such as the lips, cheeks, and jawline. Most fillers are made with hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the skin.
What’s the difference between Botox and fillers?
Botox relaxes the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, such as frown lines and crow’s feet. Fillers, like JUVÉDERM®, add volume and structure to areas affected by aging or volume loss. Many patients benefit from using both for balanced, natural results.
What areas can be treated with fillers?
Fillers can be used to enhance lips, smooth smile lines, restore cheek volume, define the jawline, and soften under-eye hollows. Your provider will recommend the best treatment plan based on your goals.
Are filler treatments safe?
Yes. At Savannah River Dermatology, we use only FDA-approved products and perform treatments in a safe, clinical environment. Our experienced providers prioritize patient safety, comfort, and natural-looking results.
How long do fillers last?
Results vary depending on the product used and the treatment area, but most fillers last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. Your provider will discuss expected longevity during your consultation.
Who is a good candidate for fillers?
Most healthy adults looking to address signs of aging or enhance facial features are good candidates. A personalized consultation ensures treatment is safe and appropriate for you.
Why should a dermatologist perform filler injections?
Dermatologists have extensive training in facial anatomy, skin health, and injectable techniques. This knowledge is essential for placing fillers safely, minimizing risks, and achieving balanced, natural-looking results.
What happens during a filler appointment?
The exact process varies depending on the type of filler used, the treatment area, and your medical history. In general, you can expect:
- Most treatments take 15–30 minutes and are completed in a single office visit
- Ice, topical numbing, or a nerve block may be used depending on the area treated
- The filler is injected using several small injections to achieve optimal results
- You may feel mild stinging or burning during injection
Some fillers require allergy testing before treatment. If testing is needed, you’ll wait for results before proceeding.
What should I do after getting fillers?
Most patients return to normal activities the same day. If you are concerned about redness or swelling that may occur, we recommend:
- Icing the treated area for 15–20 minutes to reduce swelling
- Applying makeup overtop injection points before leaving the office if desired
After treatment, you should:
- Wait until the next day to exercise or do strenuous activity
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds
- Avoid touching the treated area for three days unless instructed otherwise
When will I see results?
Many fillers, including juvederm which we use in our office, provide immediate or near-immediate results, while others work gradually by stimulating collagen production.
Will my results look natural?
Yes! We want to take into account your desired level of results. Our team will evaluate your specific features and make a recommendation based on a conservative approach to avoid overfilling.
For example, dramatically increasing lip volume in patients with naturally thin lips can appear unnatural. Thoughtful treatment planning ensures results that enhance — not overpower — your features.
What are the possible side effects?
Mild, temporary side effects are common and may include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Occasional bruising
These typically resolve within 7–14 days, often sooner.
Serious complications are rare when fillers are performed by experienced medical providers, but risks increase significantly when injections are done in non-medical settings or by untrained individuals. See what sort of results you can expect from a Juvederm or Voluma or Volbella injection (our preferred fillers) and read their medical disclaimer here.
Ready to take the leap and try fillers for yourself? Give us a call to schedule your appointment!
The information presented in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns, please call our office or make an appointment with a medical professional. Savannah River Dermatology is located at 575 Furys Ferry Rd in Augusta, Ga. Our office can be reached at 706-691-7079.
