Everything You Need to Know About JUVEDERM®

Facial lines and wrinkles are aspects of getting older most of us wish we could do without. Many factors play into the development of these wrinkles: genetics, environment, lifestyle, aging, and more, meaning that each of us experiences these changes at various ages. There are several options for treating these unwanted wrinkles. For certain lines, such as those in the forehead, around the eyes, or between the brows, your provider may choose BOTOX^®  Cosmetic injections to relax the muscles causing them.

In addition to the formation of wrinkles, aging also affects the face by a loss of the previous volume it once had. Over time, we lose volume in our bones, fat, and skin. Gravity takes its toll, and the skin becomes weakened due to diminished levels of collagen and elastin, a thinner layer of fat, decreased moisture, and slower new cell generation. Though the body continually reproduces hyaluronic acid, the skin creates much less of the substance as years pass. The face is no longer able to hold up once-elevated fat, skin, and tissue. As a result, a once-symmetrical appearance and defined contours may be lost, while fat sags downward or is stored in unwanted areas, such as under the chin. Formerly pouty lips tend to droop and form lines. For these concerns, dermal fillers such as JUVEDERM^® or Restylane^® are a popular option. Dermal fillers, as the name implies, can fill in lines and creases that form over time, and can replace volume to areas where it has been lost by the natural process of aging..

In the world of dermal fillers, hyaluronic acid-based injectables are especially popular. JUVEDERM^®, as the Tucson and Oro Valley-based team at Ironwood Dermatology explains, is a family of fillers containing hyaluronic acid, all used to address signs of facial aging and improve facial contours. More than just a passing trend, hyaluronic acid has proven to be a reliable skin treatment favorite. The word “acid” might imply something that’s harmful for the complexion, but don’t let the name fool you: This carbohydrate actually has science-backed benefits for the skin and hair. Hyaluronic acid is an organic substance known for its ability as a humectant: an agent that draws moisture from its surroundings. It binds to and retain large amounts (up to one thousand times its weight) of water. The joints, eyes, and connective contain high concentrations of this viscous gel, which adds cushioning and lubrication.

JUVEDERM^® is approved by the FDA for use in patients older than 21 to correct moderate to severe facial folds and wrinkles, and to plump up the cheeks, midface area, and lips. It is commonly applied to nasolabial folds, or laugh lines, that form between the sides of the nose and the corners of the mouth, as well as marionette lines and creases at the sides of the mouth. Other products in the JUVEDERM^® line can be used to re-volumize and give subtle lift to the cheeks and jawline.

There are fewer risks associated with this nonsurgical procedure than with traditional cosmetic surgeries, as there are no incisions to make and tissues are left intact. What makes it even more convenient is the fact that no preliminary skin tests are required. As with all procedures, an experienced injector should be seen to help avoid or manage complications that may occur. Your provider will advise you on which procedures you may be a candidate for.

A single session typically lasts around 60 minutes and is often virtually painless. Patients typically experience some mild bruising and swelling, which resolves on its own over the coming days. The effects are immediately noticeable and last for up to six months or more. Some patients may wish to have additional treatments to preserve the results.

If you’re considering JUVEDERM^®, it’s important to consult a qualified, board-certified provider with specific JUVEDERM^® experience. Discover more about dermal fillers by contacting Tucson and Oro Valley’s Ironwood Dermatology. For further details, submit a consultation request, or call directly at 520.618.1630.