Cosmetic Dermatology
HYALURONIC ACID FILLERS: JUVEDERM, PERLANE AND RESTYLANE
Hyaluronic acid is a natural part of the ground substance of normal skin. Aging skin loses hyaluronic acid over time, which can contribute to wrinkling and laxity. Hyaluronic acid fillers do not require allergy testing prior to administration. These products temporarily correct wrinkles and volume loss. Hyaluronic acid fillers are broken down and eliminated completely by the body after 6-12 months, unlike permanent fillers.
RESTYLANE
Restylane™ is a crystal-clear, non-animal, biodegradable hyaluronic acid gel. The gel is injected into the skin in tiny amounts with a very fine needle. The result is instantaneous enhancement of the skin and soft tissues. Restylane lasts for approximately 6-9 months. Injections can burn and so nerve blocks are performed in the mouth prior to Restylane™ injection. There is soreness and bruising in treated areas for 2-7 days after the injections.
JUVEDERM
Juvéderm™ is a smooth consistency gel made of hyaluronic acid that can add volume and hydration and smooth away facial wrinkles and folds, like your “smile lines” or “parentheses” (nasolabial folds—the creases that run from the bottom of your nose to the corners of your mouth). With Juvéderm™ the injection process takes only about 15 minutes and results are immediate. There is minimal recovery or downtime, although bruising may occur after injections. Juvéderm™ lasts for approximately 9-12 months.
PERLANE
Perlane™ is a hyaluronic acid filler that restores volume and fullness to the skin to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as the nasolabial folds. Swelling, redness, pain, and bruising usually follows treatment for 1-2 weeks. Although rare, red or swollen small bumps may occur. Perlane is excellent for deeper wrinkle correction because it is slightly thicker than other hyaluronic acid fillers.
SIDE EFFECTS OF HYALURONIC FILLERS:
Bruising is more likely to occur after filler injection if you take drugs that thin your blood or prevent clotting (some blood thinners include aspirin, ibuprofen, coumadin, heparin, Plavix, vitamin, E). If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 18, you should not use hyaluronic acid filler products. If you have had herpes before, an injection can cause the herpes to return. Inform your physician so that herpes prophylaxis can be used prior to filler injection.
