How Do I Avoid the Overfilled Look That Ages People Instead of Helping Them?
The overfilled look happens for two reasons: too much product and wrong placement. When someone's cheeks look like they're storing food, or their lips look like they might pop, the injector either used too much filler or put it in the wrong plane. This is my pet peeve in this industry. More filler does not mean better results. I see Irvine patients who went to a med spa, got four syringes in one visit, and now look puffy and unnatural. My approach is different. I'd rather use one or two syringes placed precisely and have you come back in a few weeks if we want to add more. You can always add. You can't always take away. adding more is easy, taking it out is difficult. I inject all the fillers myself and not a weekend trained nurse.
Choosing the Right Filler for Each Area
Different fillers have different properties, and matching the right product to the right area matters. For cheeks and jawline, I use thicker, more structured fillers like Contour or Radiesse that can lift and project. For lips, I use softer fillers like Kysse, Defyne, Refyne or regular Restylane that move naturally. For under-eye hollows, I use very thin, smooth fillers that won't look lumpy in delicate skin, like Silk or Belotero. For deep folds, I use Restylane Lyft. A lot of providers use one filler for everything. That's like using a hammer for every job. I keep a full range of products and choose based on your anatomy and goals.
What to Expect During and After
Appointments take 30 to 45 minutes including numbing time. I apply topical numbing cream 15 minutes before injecting. Most fillers also contain lidocaine, so the discomfort is manageable. You'll see results immediately, though there's some swelling that takes two to three days to settle. Minor bruising is possible. Avoid blood thinners, alcohol, and intense exercise for 24 hours before and after. Results last six months to two years depending on the product and location.
Close to Irvine
Our Costa Mesa office at 3140 Red Hill Ave is about 15 minutes from Irvine. Take the 405 or Jamboree. Free parking. Call (714) 544-8678 to schedule your filler consultation. I'll create a treatment plan specific to your face and budget.
Pricing and What to Expect
Filler pricing depends on the product and how many syringes you need. A single syringe of Restylane products runs from $385 to $585. I often advice patient to start slow, adding more is very easy but taking away the filler injected is more difficult. I'll tell you the exact cost before we start, no surprises. We also offer membership pricing that brings the cost down if you plan to maintain your results over time.
Schedule you free consultation
Call (714) 544-8678 for a free consultation at our Costa Mesa location. I'll evaluate your face, recommend specific products for your concerns, and show you before and after photos of real patients. Hablamos espanol tambien.
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