Dermal Fillers

About Fillers

As we grow older, the effects of sun damage, aging, and smoking result in loss of collagen and elastin. These factors, combined with muscle movement, cause wrinkles and folds to occur on the face, particularly around the lips and nasolabial folds (the lines from the nose to the mouth). To “plump” or “fill” out these areas, we use Restylane, Juvederm or Radiesse, dermal fillers that are injected directly into the depression, creating a more youthful appearance.

Juvederm or Restylane

Restylane and Juvederm are made of hyaluronic acid, a natural complex sugar found in all living cells and one of the major components of the dermis. Hyaluronic acid is used to smooth away wrinkles and facial folds by adding structure and volume underneath the sunken skin.

Restylane has been around longer than Juvederm; thus, it has the history of efficacy and safety. Restylane was approved by the FDA in December 2003. Juvederm received FDA approval in June 2006 and was released to United States in January 2007. Juvederm contains a higher concentration of cross-linked hyaluronic acid and is more concentrated than Restylane.

Radiesse

Radiesse fillers are longer lasting than Restylane or Juvederm. Patients see the effect lasting 6-12 months or longer.

Radiesse is made of unique calcium-based microspheres suspended in a natural gel that is injected into the skin. Radiesse does more than just temporarily fill-in facial folds and wrinkles, it rebuilds your skin’s foundation and restores your youthful look without the risks associated with a permanent implant.

FAQ

Are Restylane, Juvederm or Radiesse safe? The FDA approved Restylane and Juvederm for cosmetic corrective use. They are safe because they do not contain animal proteins or allergens. Restylane and Juvederm contain only minimally modified hyaluronic acid, a natural constituent of human tissues. Radiesse is also FDA-approved. Through years of clinical studies and independent research, Radiesse has proven to be safe and effective.

What areas are most commonly treated? The most common areas treated are nasal-labial folds (the lines from the nose to the mouth), marionette lines (line that extend downward from the edge of the mouth).

Does it hurt? The fillers involve injection into the skin so you may experience minor discomfort. However, local anesthetic creams, dental blocks and ice application are used to minimize pain for the more superficial wrinkles.

How soon do I see results and how long does it last?

Restylane, Juvederm: Results are often immediate. The results generally last 4-6 months, depending on the area being treated and the depth of the lines, the condition of the skin, the lifestyle of the individual and the amount of muscle action around the filled area. Clinical studies show Juvederm lasting up to a year. Results vary per patient.

Radiesse: Results generally last 6-12 months or even longer.

How long is recovery? There is generally no recovery period. You can go back to your daily activities.

What are the possible side-effects? The most common side effects are swelling, pain, redness, itching, tenderness and bruising. For Restylane and Juvederm, swelling is the most likely effect because they attract the body’s own water to the area. Other less likely effects include minor lumps, which usually resolve and smooth out quickly during the week.