As we age, the effects of gravity, sun damage, and loss of facial volume begin to show. Our tissues lose the collagen scaffolding that keeps skin supple and helps resist wrinkles and creasing. The results are those unwanted signs of aging including lip lines, nasolabial folds (smile lines), jowls, and facial hollowing.
Soft tissue fillers can correct lip lines, add fullness to your lips and cheeks, and soften your nasolabial folds. In some instances, dermal fillers can stimulate new collagen growth to further correct the signs of aging and help you achieve a smoother more youthful appearance.
Juvederm®
Juvederm® is a dermal filler made of smooth hyaluronic acid gel, a natural substance found in our bodies, which provides a natural look and feel with long-lasting results. With several choices such as Juvederm® Ultra XC, Juvederm® Ultra Plus XC, and Juvederm® Voluma XC, we have the flexibility to tailor each treatment to your specific needs while providing a more comfortable experience since all the formulas contain lidocaine.
Depending on the area that is being treated, the procedure will generally last about an hour. Using a thin needle, small amounts of the dermal filler are injected into the areas where moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds occur to enhance your appearance. To decrease discomfort, all Juvederm® variations we use contain lidocaine; however, patients may also request a topical anesthetic or a local anesthetic be used.
The effects of Juvederm® are practically instantaneous and can last from 6-24 months depending on the formula injected and the area being treated. Because of the potential for swelling and the risk of bruising treatments should be performed at least 2 weeks prior to any major event.
Radiesse®
Radiesse® is a soft dermal filler comprised of Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) that is similar to our own bone and is suspended in a gel carrier. Once it is injected, it provides immediate plumping by replenishing lost volume but continues to work by stimulating the body to produce its own natural collagen. Over time, the gel is absorbed and the body metabolizes the CaHA microspheres leaving behind your own natural collagen. Radiesse® is FDA approved to mix with lidocaine to reduce injection related discomfort.
Radiesse® is an excellent filler for use in restoring mid-face volume loss. A cheek augmentation, which is achieved by injecting the product with a thin needle just above the bone of the cheeks, can soften nasolabial folds and improve jowls and marionette lines by restoring a natural fullness to the cheeks. However, nasolabial folds and marionettes lines can be treated independently without a cheek augmentation if the patient prefers. A procedure generally takes about an hour and a topical or local anesthetic may be used to minimize any discomfort.
Radiesse® is clinically proven to last a year or more in many patients. It is best to plan your treatment at least 2 weeks prior to any special event to allow for healing from potential swelling and bruising.
Contact Tarola Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Nicholas Tarola. We’ll work with you to determine the most effective dermal filler treatment for your needs.
