The norm lately has been for women, as young as 20-something, to stop in my office for plumping the face or perfecting the pout with fillers. This has been happening more and more, and it’s important to discuss what patients need to think about when requesting fillers at such a young age. My philosophy as a physician, who focuses on aesthetics and anti-aging medicine, is to educate my patients to strive for natural looking and enhanced results. Fillers have traditionally been used in women over the age of 40 to combat volume loss and smooth lines and wrinkles. With the popularity of social media platforms skyrocketing, however, younger and younger women are seeking to resemble the features of their favorite celebrities. Who cares if there are no lines for Juvederm to smooth or cheeks that have no need of being lifted with Voluma…. young women want the plump full features of Hollywood starlets and are willing to pay the cost to achieve a desired look.
Fillers are everywhere nowadays, so the ease with which the products can be obtained is becoming more and more mainstream. The hyaluronic-acid based fillers that I use are safe and have a good duration of effect and are extremely compatible with the human body. Even though fillers can produce attractive results, finding a physician who will only treat a patient by giving natural results, is key for younger patients. Too much filler can actually age women in their 20’s, and looking artificial or overdone is not a look that many would choose for their faces. My approach to fillers is, “You can always add more down the road.” There is truly no need to inject multiple syringes of filler on a young face because the results are going to age the patient. Seek out a physician with experience who has an artistic eye and is not looking to make a quick buck. Moderation is necessary for this age group. Beauty can be enhanced if done correctly and the patient will be satisfied and loyal to you for years to come.