Juvederm

When you look at a baby’s cheeks, you can see that they are full, plump and healthy looking. Looking at photos of ourselves from 20 years ago will also show that we had more fullness of the tissues back then. One of the substances that provides that youthful look is hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is an ingredient that is naturally occurring in our skin. Specifically, it functions as a sponge, drawing in moisture so that your skin looks plump. Unfortunately, the aging process and sun damage decreases this vital substance in our skin.

The good news is that technology has developed a form of hyaluronic acid that is injected to restore the youthful look that we once had. Restylane and Juvederm are smooth gels that immediately decrease the look of skin folds and wrinkles.

There are many benefits to injectable fillers. They can:

• Add volume and fullness to the lips and cheeks
• Minimize facial wrinkles, folds, and sunken areas of the face
• Helps to restore the face to a smoother, more youthful-looking appearance

Using a filler is very much an art form. Our skillful medical professionals are like sculptors, rebuilding your youthfulness layer by layer. For that reason, it is important to trust your injector not only medically, but also artistically. Because of this attention to beauty, we do our best to avoid an “overdone” or “overblown” look. Our results are based on your individual tastes and desires.

Furthermore, facial rejuvenation is very individualized. A successful treatment of injectable fillers requires careful evaluation of the facial skin, muscle, and underlying bone. Your facial folds and wrinkles will be analyzed by your practitioner for optimal injection. If the lips are to be plumped, it is also examined for existing fullness and tone.

Your filler already contains a numbing anesthetic agent that makes injections much more comfortable than in the past. An additional topical numbing agent is also sometimes used to help improve comfort. Occasionally, a local anesthetic injection (like at the dentist) can be performed prior to the filler injection. The injection areas are first cleansed with an antibacterial agent. The actual injection takes only a few minutes. After injection, light massage may be needed to assist with distributing the filler to surrounding areas.

The restoration of volume and fullness is immediate. However, there may be small areas of swelling associated with the injection.

The results of the injection is immediate. Over the years, we have seen hundreds of people’s eyes light up with joy as they experience that “Wow!” response that comes with seeing their results in the mirror.

The results of the filler gradually diminish with time. The results of Juvederm can last up to a year. Occasionally, the initial treatment does not provide the full desired correction and you may realize that you need more filler . A return visit to the office can be made for an evaluation and possibly additional injections. Otherwise, follow-up will be required within 6 to 12 months to maintain the results of the therapy.

For the best improvement, Botox and fillers work hand in hand to turn back the clock even further. Botox works in areas that are affected by muscle movements, such as the frown lines.

Having injectable fillers is associated with minimal complications. These may include:

• Bruising
• Temporary redness
• Discomfort or pain at the injection site
• Firmness or bumps under the skin
• Allergic reactions

Q: What are some common side effects of filler injections?
A: Some of the more common side effects include temporary bruising, redness, swelling, firmness and bumps. Overall, side effects after the injections are rare.

Q: When should I start seeing results?
A: Immediately. Initial swelling from the injection may subside over the next few days.

Q: How does injectable filler affect skin surfaces?
A: Filler does not change the skin surface, it only fills deeper facial creases and folds. Surface wrinkles can be further improved with additional skin resurfacing treatments such as a chemical peel or microdermabrasion. Medical skin care products may also dramatically improve skin surfaces.

Q: What options are available for lines caused by muscle action?
A: Botox helps reduce and soften lines caused by muscle action such as the crow’s feet. Botox and filler are usually used in conjunction with each other.

Q: How long do the results last?
A: While the exact length of time varies with each individual, the effects from Restylane or Juvederm injections typically lasts approximately 6 months or more.

Q: Do the injections hurt?
A: Most patients only experience mild discomfort during the injections.

Q: How does Restylane and Juvederm work?
A: Restylane and Juvederm are made of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a substance found naturally in the human body. Hyaluronic acid works by attracting the body’s own moisture to maintain its fullness.

Q: Can I use Restylane or Juvederm if I am pregnant / nursing?
A: Restylane and Juvederm are not recommended for pregnant and/or nursing mothers.