Restylane, Perlane, and Juvéderm
Washington, D.C.
Since Restylane was approved as the first hyaluronic-acid based filler in 2003, the market has exploded both among users and developers of cosmetic fillers. Now hyaluronic acid filler injections are the second most popular cosmetic treatment in the United States, after BOTOX® Cosmetic injections. Hyaluronic acid based fillers including Perlane and Juvéderm are used for the restoration of a face's smooth, youthful contour, as well as lip augmentation.
Whether you have deep facial folds, sunken cheeks, hollows under your eyes, or thin, narrow lips, hyaluronic acid based fillers can help. To see the great results that have made these treatments popular, schedule a facial rejuvenation consultation at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery today.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a basic element in connective skin tissue. It is also found in bodily fluids like spinal fluid and the eye's aqueous humor. Hyaluronic acid has a hydrophilic quality--it has the ability to draw and hold water. It helps to nourish and moisturize the skin. Unfortunately, hyaluronic acid in the skin, like collagen, diminishes as we age.
The success of hyaluronic acid depends on its natural source and on its ability to attract water. Because it is natural, it integrates smoothly into the skin with a minimum of side effects. Most people experience only minor swelling. It is also harmlessly absorbed into the body over time. However, it gives long-lasting results because as some of the hyaluronic acid is absorbed, the remaining amount retains its volume by binding water. This allows hyaluronic acid to give long-lasting results that remain nearly constant for the entire period.
What Is the Difference between Restylane, Perlane, and Juvéderm?
Restylane, Perlane, and Juvéderm are all non-animal hyaluronic acid (NAHA) fillers. Because they are not derived from animals, no allergy testing is necessary before you receive treatment with these hyaluronic acid-based fillers. Chemically, they are very similar, but structurally, they are very different. Restylane was the first NAHA filler developed, and it is composed of small particles. Perlane is similar to Restylane, but it has a larger particle size. Juvéderm is different: it is manufactured as a mooth gel. The theory is that the particles in Perlane and Restylane give them more lifting power, so they can be injected into deeper tissue and provide better results on deep folds, whereas the smooth gel of Juvéderm is easier to inject and causes less tissue irritation. Juvéderm Ultra is a Juvéderm variation that is thicker.
We recommend Restylane for nasolabial folds, for persistent hollows under the eyes, and for tear troughs.
Perlane is good for people with deep nasolabial folds or who need significant volume restored to their cheeks.
Juvéderm we recommend for lip augmentation and nasolabial folds, especially for people who are receiving injections for the first time because it causes less swelling.
Restylane and Juvéderm Results
The only common side effect of Restylane and Juvéderm is swelling at the injection sites. For Restylane, this swelling can last 2-3 days, and for Juvéderm it is more often 1-2 days. Not everyone experiences swelling as a result of Restylane and Juvéderm injections. You may be aware of the filler at first, but this will pass quickly.
As soon as the swelling goes down, the results of your treatment will be apparent. Your wrinkles, folds, and hollows will be significantly reduced. They may even be erased. Your results should last for about six months or more.
If you are interested in seeing how much younger you can look with Restylane or Juvéderm injections, schedule a consultation with the cosmetic dermatologists at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery today.
