Why to Choose Juvederm over Other Injectable Fillers
By Neel Kanase | Published on October 15, 2010 | 0 Comments
Used for years to achieve plumper, fuller lips, injectable fillers are becoming increasingly popular as wrinkle erasers. What are the advantages of Juvederm over other injectable fillers? According to Neel Kanase, MD of Albuquerque medical spa Albuquerque Laser Clinic, there are several. “Juvederm provides great results that last,” he says. “That’s why it’s so popular with our patients.”
The History of Injectable Fillers
Juvederm, according to Dr. Kanase, is a type of injectable filler called hyaluronic acid, which acts as a synthetic collagen. Collagen, he explains, is the skin’s natural “glue” – it keeps the skin taut, firm and elastic. When collagen production slows, as happens during the aging process, the skin begins to sag downward, resulting in wrinkles. This sagging, wrinkling effect is simply the skin responding to the force of gravity.
In patients who are concerned about wrinkles, injectable synthetic collagen can be used to bridge the gaps between collagen fibers, smoothing the skin and filling in lines and creases. Injectable fillers, says Dr. Kanase, are most appropriate for smoothing and filling deep lines on the lower half of the face. They can also be used to plump the lips or to contour the face.
The first synthetic collagens, Dr. Kanase says, became widely available about 10 years ago. Because allergic reactions were possible with these products, it was necessary to undergo testing before you could receive your injection. “You’d have to perform a spot test,” Dr. Kanase says, “then wait two weeks to make sure there was no adverse reaction before you could get your treatment.”
When injectables were first introduced, he says, a patient could expect results to last about four weeks. In 2002, when Restylane was introduced, one could expect to achieve results that would last up to four months. Juvederm, however, has certainly raised the bar, offering results that last upwards of a year.
Why Choose Juvederm?
According to Dr. Kanase, Juvederm (and, in particular, Juvederm Ultra Plus) offers longer-lasting results than most fillers, and does not pose the same risks. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally within the body, says Dr. Kanase, but some hyaluronic acid fillers are made using animal tissue, which can cause allergic reactions in some patients. Juvederm, however, is synthesized differently and contains no allergens. This means no testing is required before your procedure and there is no risk of allergic reaction.
The results of Juvederm are also extremely natural-looking, and recovery time is minimal. While there may be some initial redness or bruising at the injection site, these effects usually disappear within a few days.
With regard to longevity, Dr. Kanase says that results from Juvederm treatment generally last between 12 and 15 months. “Our patients love the fact that they get instant, noticeable results,” he says, “and that their results last for so long.”
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.