None of us are immune to the facial lines and wrinkles that are caused by aging. As we age, facial lines and wrinkles are the result of the gradual breakdown of the body’s collagen and the elastin fibers in our skin. Environmental factors, stress, sun exposure and smoking can accelerate the aging process and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid wrinkle fillers, such as JuvedermTM and Restylane®, are great options to temporarily restore this lost volume in areas such as around the mouth, lips, cheeks, jawline, and “marionette” lines.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule already present in many areas of our body. Because it is already familiar to the body, it is it safe and compatible for. Hyaluronic acids will attract water from within your own body to plump the filled area even more, especially if you can stay well hydrated.
What is the injection like?
At Renewal MD, we are very sensitive to your comfort! Wrinkle fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane are injected with extremely tiny needles.. Both of these fillers contain lidocaine to help numb the area as you are being injected. So, after the first initial prick you should only feel minimal discomfort. If you find you are not comfortable, let the nurse know, and she can provide you with a topical nerve block to numb the area so no discomfort is felt.
How long do the fillers last?
Results are immediate! The wrinkles will continue to soften over a couple of weeks/months. Juvederm and Restylane can last anywhere from 6 months to 1 year and in rare patients, over a year. Studies are now showing that if you get a repeat injection of wrinkle fillers approximately 3 months after your initial injection, the longevity of the product can increase to 18 months!
What are the side effects?
The most common side effect of Restylane and Juvederm is temporary bruising and swelling, which can last a couple of days or more. The nice thing about hyaluronic acids is that if the results are not what you expected, the product can easily and instantly be dissolved with a medication called hyaluronidaise.