Injectables

As we age, many changes occur that cause us to look older. Our skin loses its elasticity, and we begin to develop fine lines and wrinkles that are especially noticeable on our faces. In addition, the face tends to lose the fat tissue that creates its youthful plumpness, which leads to the formation of hollows and other contour irregularities. As these conditions worsen, many men and women begin feeling self-conscious about looking older than they feel.

Injectables provide patients with a more youthful and rested appearance by improving the following conditions:

• Fine lines
• Wrinkles
• Deep lines on the forehead
• Deep creases and folds
• Hollows
• Shallow contours
• Recessed scars
• Thin lips

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The Procedure

Injectable formulas are strategically injected into the targeted areas with a small needle. The injections only take a few minutes per site, and the entire treatment process is usually complete within 15 to 60 minutes.

Injectables

There are various injectables available, and the ideal type for you will depend on the correction needed. In general, there are two different types of injectables: neurotoxins and dermal fillers. During your initial consultation, your surgeon will evaluate you to determine the best injectable(s) to meet your individual needs and achieve your goals.

Neurotoxins

BOTOX® Cosmetic

Made of a protein derived from botulinum toxin A, BOTOX® Cosmetic relaxes the targeted muscles and is FDA approved for treating fine lines and wrinkles, deep lines on the forehead, frown lines and furrows between the eyebrows, and crow’s feet. BOTOX® Cosmetic typically takes four to seven days for the onset to be noticeable, and the results usually last between three and six months.

In addition to cosmetic facial rejuvenation, BOTOX® is also an FDA-approved treatment for chronic migraine headaches, primary axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating), and an overactive bladder.

Dysport®

Dysport® has been FDA approved for use in the United States since 2009. Dysport® is similar to BOTOX® Cosmetic but has a slightly faster onset, with results becoming apparent in one to two days. Dysport® offers natural-looking results that last up to four months.

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Dermal Fillers

Artefill®

Artefill® is a long-lasting, FDA-approved filler made with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres suspended in a collagen gel that plumps the skin. Artefill® also contains lidocaine for your comfort during the procedure. Once the collagen gel in the formula breaks down after a few months, the body is prompted to produce its own collagen to maintain the results, which is why this injectable is considered semi-permanent.

JUVÉDERM® XC

JUVÉDERM® XC is an FDA-approved gel filler made of hyaluronic acid that improves the appearance of moderate to severe facial wrinkles, lines, and folds around the nose and mouth and restores natural contours to the face. JUVÉDERM® XC effectively treats nasolabial folds (parentheses lines), vertical lip lines, lines at the corners of the mouth, and marionette lines. The results from JUVÉDERM® XC last up to a year after just one treatment.

RADIESSE® Volumizing Filler

RADIESSE® Volumizing Filler is made of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in an aqueous gel that plump the skin to provide instant results. Once injected, the CaHA microspheres stimulate the natural production of collagen in the skin so that results last long after the injectable is absorbed by the body. RADIESSE® Volumizing Filler is the most common CaHA injectable formula and effectively improves the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles and folds, including smile lines, marionette lines, lines at the corners of the mouth, hollows in the pre-jowl area, and chin wrinkles.

Restylane®

Restylane® is an injectable gel made of hyaluronic acid that restores volume, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, enhances facial contours, and creates fuller lips. Results from Restylane® are instant and generally last six months to a year, although some studies show that results can last up to 18 months.