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 Touted as the "next generation" of facial fillers, Juvéderm™ injectable gels gently smooth wrinkles and folds around the mouth and nose and restore a youthful volume to the face. They are especially effective on smile lines and "parentheses" (nasolabial folds) that run from the bottom of the nose to the sides of the mouth.
Recently approved by the FDA, Juvéderm™ products are made with hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the body that works with collagen and elastin to provide volume and support to the skin. They come in three formulas optimized for the depth of the area being treated. Juvéderm™ Ultra and Juvéderm™ Ultra Plus use a more advanced, cross-linked formula for the correction of moderate to severe wrinkles or folds in the mid- to deep dermis.
Treatment takes only 15 minutes with immediate results and no downtime. Results typically last about 6-9 months and can be made to last even longer with a simple follow-up treatment a few weeks after the initial injection.
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Restylane is a biodegradable gel used by dermatologists in injections targeted at smoothing out wrinkled skin. Restylane is primarily composed of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance occurring within the body. This compound is also the only FDA approved dermal filler on the market for use in treating wrinkles. In addition, not only does the injected volume of Restylane add fullness to skin, but it also attracts water molecules to the site of injection, further enhancing its effectiveness.
While inside the body, Restylane provides longer lasting results that are apparent almost immediately after injection, although it may take a day or two before natural body processes and swelling subside. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled for a later date (4-8 months) for another set of injections to further prolong the effect.
There are very few complications associated with Restylane. The compound itself is derived from bacterial origins, so most allergies should not be an issue (unless specific to bacterial proteins). The side effects are minimal and will not interrupt daily routine. These may include:
- Slight redness
- Minor swelling
- Mild discomfort
These will all subside within three days or less as your body adjusts to the new hyaluronic acid. Consequently, the suggested recovery period of Restylane treatment is just under three days. It is advised to refrain from rubbing or massaging the treated area for approximately 48 hours.
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 Radiesse® is a synthetic injectable filler that has been FDA-approved to reduce moderate to severe wrinkles, folds and creases around the nose and mouth by augmenting the skin\'s natural collagen supply. It is a safe, effective and long-lasting alternative to injectable collagen and other dermal fillers for not only smoothing wrinkles but also adding volume and contour to the face for an overall younger, fuller, smoother appearance. With just one or two Radiesse® treatments, you can enjoy a beautiful, natural look that lasts.
What is Radiesse® made of?
Radiesse® is composed of microspheres in a water-based gel. The microspheres—made of a substance called calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA)—stimulate the production of collagen to smooth lines and wrinkles and also add younger-looking suppleness to the face. Radiesse® is made from minerals similar to what makes up our bones. There is no need for pre-treatment allergy testing, and it is absorbed naturally by the body over time.
What areas does Radiesse® treat?
Radiesse® can be used on many areas of the face and body. Numerous studies have shown Radiesse® to be especially effective for filling and correcting smile lines, nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth), marionette lines (from the corners of the mouth to the chin), and other lines and wrinkles around the nose and mouth. It can also be used to treat depressed scars and oral commissures.
Radiesse® has also been approved by the FDA to restore and correct the signs of lipoatrophy (loss of fat beneath the skin) in patients with HIV.
What can I expect during treatment?
At your Radiesse® treatment, your doctor will clean the treatment area and administer a series of quick injections with a fine needle. Treatments typically take 15 minutes and require only local anesthetic. There is little to no downtime; many patients return to their normal activities after their appointment.
Patients typically need only one or two treatments to achieve the full effect of Radiesse®. Your doctor may recommend a follow-up appointment to determine whether you would benefit from additional treatments.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects such as mild irritation, itching, swelling, discoloration or tenderness at the injection site are minimal and should fade within a few days.
When will I see the results of my Radiesse® treatment? How long do results last?
Results are visible immediately after the injection and can last for up to a year or more. Touch-up treatments can prolong Radiesse®\'s effects. Studies have shown that patients require fewer re-treatments with Radiesse® than with other leading dermal fillers.
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