JUVEDERM XC

Juvederm is made of hyaluronic acid, which 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 minimal 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.

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® or Dysport® injections.

Dermal fillers in Washington, DC are commonly used for:

• Facial folds and wrinkles: Dermal fillers are an excellent complement to Botox® and Dysport® injections because they correct a different type of wrinkle. Combining the two treatments with laser skin resurfacing can virtually resolve all your wrinkles.
• Restoring facial volume: As we age, our faces naturally lose volume and gravity takes hold. This gives the face a drawn, tired appearance. Dermal fillers can be used to fill in areas that have lost volume, restoring a youthful fullness to your face.
• Lip augmentation: The lips also tend to lose volume as we age. Thin lips can create an older, sterner appearance. Dermal fillers can be used to restore a youthful volume to the lips.
• Facial reshaping: Some people do not have the facial shape they desire and, in many cases, this can be at least partly corrected with dermal fillers which can give the appearance of higher cheekbones or a stronger chin and jawline.
• Very Fine Lines: With Belotero®, fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth, brow, eyes and cheeks can be reduced without bumpiness.

What Is the Difference between Restylane®, Perlane®, Juvederm® and Belotero®?

Restylane, Perlane, Juvéderm and Belotero are all non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) fillers. Because they are not derived from animals, no allergy testing is necessary before treatment. Chemically, they are very similar, but structurally, they are very different. Restylane was the first NASHA 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 smooth 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.

In Washington, DC at Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, we offer:

• Restylane® for nasolabial folds, mouth corners, and persistent hollows under the eyes.
• Perlane® for deep nasolabial folds or for restoration of cheek volume.
• Juvederm® for lip augmentation and nasolabial folds (particularly good for those receiving injections for the first time due to less swelling).
• Belotero® for fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, brow, mouth and cheeks.

Restylane®, Perlane®, Juvederm®, Belotero® Results

A common side effect of Restylane®, Perlane®, Juvederm®, Juvederm®, Belotero® is swelling at the injection sites which can last 1-3 days. Bruising may also occur. As soon as the swelling and bruising resolve, the clinical results of the treatment will be apparent. Wrinkles, folds, and hollows will be significantly reduced. Clinical results typically last for about six months or more.

Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington, DC holds a Diamond rating with Allergan (the makers of Juvederm®), is part of the Medicis Platinum Club with Restylane®/Perlane® and is an Expert Physician with Merz (the makers of Belotero®/Radiesse®. The physicians at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery on K Street in Washington, DC on K Street participated in phase III FDA trials for the approval of Botox for cosmetic use and the Institute has been selected as a national training center for physician instruction in Botox® Cosmetic treatment, as well as advanced Restylane injection technique. Dr. Tina Alster is on the advisory board of Medicis, the company that distributes Restylane®, Perlane® and Dysport®, as well as Allergan, the manufacturer of Botox®, Juvederm®, and Latisse® .

Whether you have deep facial folds, fine lines, sunken cheeks, hollows under your eyes, or thin lips, Belotero can help. To learn about the great results that have made these treatments popular, schedule a facial rejuvenation consultation at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington, DC today.