JUVÉDERM®

JUVÉDERM® is a smooth, gel-like, dermal filler that is used to replace facial volume that is lost with the natural aging process. JUVÉDERM® is used to treat static wrinkles that occur due to facial volume loss. The most common areas treated with JUVÉDERM® are the nasolabial folds (parenthesis of mouth), smoker’s and lip stick lines of the upper and lower lip, marionette lines, and under the eyes. JUVÉDERM® is also very commonly used for lip augmentation and contouring, as well as treating the deep wrinkles that do not resolve with BOTOX® treatment, such as the deep vertical lines in between the eyes. JUVÉDERM® is the only FDA approved Hyaluronic Acid filler that is approved to last up to one year with a single treatment.

How Does JUVÉDERM® Work?

JUVÉDERM® is a dermal filler composed of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) that is used to replace the volume in the face that becomes depleted with age and sun exposure. HA is a natural substance present in the body that helps to bind water and gives skin its supple appearance. As we get older, the amount of HA decreases and the skin begins to lose volume causing undesired wrinkles and folds, especially around the mouth. The HA in JUVÉDERM® is a cross-linked formulation that is able to provide stable and long term volume replacement with little risk of allergic reactions because it is naturally present in the body. Although there are other HA dermal fillers available, JUVÉDERM® is the only smooth, non-granular formula on the market.

JUVÉDERM® Procedure

JUVÉDERM® is a nonsurgical procedure that provides excellent results with little down time or recovery. Dr. Zemmel and Ms. Leisy use new JUVÉDERM XC® product which contains Lidocaine (a local anasthetic) that makes the experience virtually painless. For additional comfort, a topical anesthetic is applied and an upper and lower dental block is administered with small injections in the gums just like at the dentist. Once the area is completely anesthetized JUVÉDERM® is injected below the skin or in the lips with a fine needle and ice is applied afterward. The results are immediate, and because HA absorbs and binds water, you can expect a small further increase in volume over the first 24hours.

Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with Juvederm are redness, pain, and bruising along the injection sites. These can all be covered with makeup immediately after the procedure and usually resolve in 3-5 days. Individuals on aspirin or other NSAIDS are at greater risk of these complications due to increased bleeding. The severe side effects associated with JUVÉDERM® are rare because the substance is naturally occurring in the body. However, it is important to inform Dr. Zemmel and Ms. Leisy of any abnormal after effects you have ever experienced.