Plump Up the Volume: Your Complete Guide to Dermal Fillers

Expert Insights from Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS

As we age, our skin gradually loses elasticity, volume, and hydration, leading to fine lines, sagging, and a less defined facial structure. For those seeking a non-surgical solution to restore youthful fullness and enhance facial contours, dermal fillers stand out as an increasingly popular and effective option, offering a rejuvenated and more youthful appearance.

For expert guidance on dermal fillers, we turn to Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, a renowned cosmetic dentist and certified aesthetic provider in Henderson, NV. With her extensive experience and expertise, she offers valuable insights into how dermal fillers work, what to expect from treatment, and how they can complement other cosmetic procedures.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers, gel-like substances injected beneath the skin, serve to restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial features. The most commonly used fillers today are composed of hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps maintain hydration and volume.

“These treatments are designed to enhance the face subtly,” explains Dr. Perrone. “They can improve facial harmony and restore youthful contours without surgery or extended downtime.”

Common treatment areas include:

• Cheeks and midface
• Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
• Lips
• Marionette lines
• Jawline and chin
• Under-eye hollows

Types of Dermal Fillers

Several FDA-approved fillers are available on the market, each formulated for specific purposes:

• Juvederm® and Restylane® – Popular HA fillers used for smoothing lines and adding volume to the lips and cheeks
• Radiesse® – A calcium-based filler used for deeper volume restoration and collagen stimulation
• Sculptra® – A poly-L-lactic acid filler that gradually improves skin texture and volume by stimulating collagen over time

“Choosing the right filler depends on the treatment area, the desired effect, and how long the patient wants results to last,” says Dr. Perrone. “During consultation, we create a personalized plan based on facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.”

What to Expect During and After Treatment

Depending on the treated areas, dermal filler appointments typically take 30 to 45 minutes. The injections are administered using fine needles or cannulas, and most fillers include a small amount of lidocaine for enhanced comfort.

Patients can usually return to normal activities immediately, although mild swelling, redness, or bruising may occur. These typically resolve within a few days.

“Results are visible immediately, but they continue to improve as swelling subsides and the filler settles,” Dr. Perrone notes. “Most fillers last 6 months to 2 years, depending on the product and treatment area.”

Combining Dermal Fillers with BOTOX: A Holistic Approach

While dermal fillers target volume loss and static wrinkles, BOTOX relaxes dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expressions. Together, they can create a balanced and refreshed appearance.

“Combining BOTOX and dermal fillers allows us to address multiple signs of aging simultaneously,” explains Dr. Perrone. “For example, we can soften crow’s feet with BOTOX and restore cheek volume with fillers in the same visit.”

This combination therapy, often called a "liquid facelift," is ideal for patients looking to enhance facial symmetry and achieve a more youthful yet natural look—without surgery.

Improving Precision and Safety with AccuVein® Technology

To ensure optimal safety and minimize post-treatment bruising, Dr. Perrone incorporates AccuVein® vein visualization technology into her aesthetic procedures.

AccuVein uses near-infrared light to project a real-time map of the patient’s veins onto the skin's surface, helping the provider avoid blood vessels during injections.

“This technology significantly reduces the risk of bruising, especially in high-risk areas like under the eyes or around the mouth,” says Dr. Perrone. “It also enhances precision and patient comfort, which are top priorities in our practice.”

By integrating advanced technology like AccuVein® vein visualization into her aesthetic procedures, Dr. Perrone ensures her patients have a safer, more predictable filler experience, enhancing their peace of mind.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are ideal for adults seeking non-surgical facial enhancement with realistic expectations. However, they may not be suitable for individuals with certain allergies, active infections, or medical conditions affecting healing.

“A thorough consultation is essential,” advises Dr. Perrone. “We evaluate skin health, facial structure, and lifestyle to determine the most effective and safe treatment options.”

Final Thoughts

Dermal fillers offer a minimally invasive, effective way to restore volume, enhance facial features, and maintain a youthful appearance. Whether used alone or combined with treatments like BOTOX, they provide flexible, customizable results with little to no downtime.

As Dr. Perrone concludes:

“The goal is to restore—not change—your natural beauty. Dermal fillers are a tool to help patients feel refreshed and confident at every age.”

About Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS

Dr. Marielaina Perrone is a general and cosmetic dentist in Henderson, NV, with over 20 years of experience in aesthetic dentistry and facial rejuvenation. She specializes in natural-looking smile enhancements, facial balancing with dermal fillers, and non-surgical anti-aging treatments.