Juvederm: Risks and Results

If you are considering plastic surgery for the lines and wrinkles on your face, you may want to consider an alternative: JUVEDERM ® . A dermal filler, JUVEDERM ® has been approved since 2006 for treatment of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. It serves as a gel implant and consists of hyaluronic acid, which is a natural complex sugar already in the body. This substance improves the skin's hydration and volume with an end result of a more smooth and supple appearance. There is no invasive surgery with JUVEDERM ® . It is injected by syringe into the mid to deep epidermis. It lifts and adds volume to folds and wrinkles, improving your facial appearance in the target area. The bio-compatible material will slowly absorb into the body after six to nine months. JUVEDERM ® is available in three formulas, each targeted to work based on the severity of the wrinkles and folds. JUVEDERM ® 18, is a moderately thin fluid and used in the treatment of superficial wrinkles, like crow's feet. JUVEDERM ® 24 is a thicker gel, formulated to work on moderate lines like forehead wrinkles. JUVEDERM ® 30 is a dense gel, used to improve the deepest folds and grooves. You may wonder what risks or side effects are involved with JUVEDERM ® . It does have some side effects, mostly swelling, tenderness or pain in the treated area. These effects are rare and usually subside in two to three days. Sometimes there is discoloration at the injection site, which is treatable. Other effects include swelling, as well as bumps and bruises. These are extremely rare and all subside within a week. To avoid bruising as much as possible, you should avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs like Asprin, Aleve, and Ibuprofen before being treated with JUVEDERM ® . You should also avoid taking Vitamin E or St. John's Wort. These supplements and medications can cause more swelling and bruising in some patients. Patients with a tendency to have cold sores can also experience an outbreak after an injection. However, these effects can be treated with anti-facial herpes simplex medications. The injections can be slightly painful, but doctors provide topical anesthetics such as xylocaine to numb the area. Cosmetically, the results are almost always evident before leaving the doctor's office, and improve over the next few days. With an affordable cost, JUVEDERM ® injections are a good alternative to surgery. Consult a qualified provider for more information about JUVEDERM ® and other dermal fillers.