Belotero Balance is a monophasic hyaluronic acid-based gel dermal filler that differs from other hyaluronic acid fillers by incorporating a cohesive polydensified matrix (CPM) technology, making it the first dermal filler of its kind in the world. This product was first launched in Germany and is now widely used as an injectable dermal filler to correct moderate to severe facial folds and wrinkles.
How does Belotero Balance work?
Hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers provide wrinkle reduction and plumping by introducing this natural sugar through injections into the dermis. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that is present in the human body and can diminish over time due to lifestyle, pollution, sun damage and aging. When injected into treatment areas, this dermal filler attracts water to the site encouraging natural plumping to occur.
What problem areas can Belotero Balance treat?
Belotero Balance can be used to treat wrinkles and folds and to provide plumping or augmentation. Uses include:
• Nasolabial folds
• Worry lines
• Crow’s feet
• Lips, chin or cheek augmentation
• Marionette lines
• Smile lines
• Perioral lines
• Wrinkles at the décolletage
What are the advantages of Belotero Balance over other procedures?
As the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler that is monophasic and includes cohesive polydensified matrix technology, Belotero Balance offers several advantages, including:
• Increased elasticity and viscosity allowing for natural, smooth integration
• Long-lasting effects that are immediately noticeable
• Minimal discomfort during injection
• Anticipated Cost-effectiveness
• A high level of purity, providing increased safety
• Even pressure during injection
Who is a candidate for Belotero Balance?
Belotero Balance candidates include patients who do not have a sensitivity to hyaluronic acid and are in search of a corrective procedure for moderate to severe folds and wrinkles. Patients should have realistic expectations of what dermal fillers can accomplish and should understand that dermal fillers are temporary; therefore, maintenance treatments will be necessary to maintain a more youthful appearance.
How is the procedure performed?
After a consultation where you and your provider will determine the areas to be treated, your practitioner will cleanse the area and most likely apply a topical anesthetic. He or she will then perform injections in the predetermined treatment areas. This usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes and may involve minor discomfort.
What is the recovery like?
Although it is normal for there to be some swelling or redness after the treatment, this should subside quickly and patients will be able to return to normal activities directly after their Belotero Balance treatment, with no required recovery time.
What will my results be like?
Results, including softened lines, wrinkles and folds, are immediately noticeable and are long-lasting, but are not permanent. Most patients find that they will need maintenance injections every 6-12 months to continue enjoying smoother, more youthful looking skin.
What are the risks?
Belotero Balance, as a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler, is considered safe for use and has minimal associated risks. Risks include the possibility of bruising, swelling, bleeding, itchiness, tenderness or pain at or near the injection sites, which generally will subside within a few days. In some rare cases an allergic reaction may occur, but this is very rare and has a much lower chance of occurring than with other dermal fillers, such as bovine collagen.
Patients who have a history of cold sores should discuss this with their provider and may need to take antiviral medication to avoid a recurrence of cold sores after treatment.
Is the Belotero Balance approved for use in the U.S.?
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently reviewing the premarket approval application submitted by Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC for Belotero Balance. The premarket approval application was formally accepted for review in September, 2009 and it is anticipated that Belotero will soon be approved for use in correcting moderate to severe folds and wrinkles.
How much does Belotero Balance cost?
The overall cost of Belotero Balance, and other dermal fillers, is determined by a number of factors, including individual provider’s fees, the number of injections needed, the number of areas to be treated and geographical region.
Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.
By Dermanetwork.org Staff
Updated: October 1, 2009
