The FDA approved Juvederm for the treatment of moderate to severe facial folds and wrinkles in 2006. This "next generation" dermal filler offers an alternative to surgery that requires no downtime and generates few side effects. The benefits gained by the dermal filler do fade over time, so repeated treatments are necessary to maintain results.
Description
Like many dermal fillers on the market, Juvederm dermal filler is a hyaluronic acid-based gel. This natural complex sugar closely resembles the hyalronic acid found in human skin, which makes it nontoxic, biodegradable and bio-compatible. Therefore, it causes fewer allergic or immune reactions than bovine collagen injectable fillers. Juvederm gel has a smoother consistency compared to other hyalronic-acid based fillers, which, according to the manufacturer, extends its duration. The Juvederm gel formula also includes the anesthetic lidocaine to ease patient discomfort.
Varieties and Uses
Juvederm injectable filler comes in two formulations that differ in texture and usage. The thinner consistency of Juvederm Ultra makes it more pliable, and therefore useful for contouring and filling fine to moderate wrinkles, such as vertical lip lines. Juvederm Ultra Plus has a thicker consistency and is typically used to plump deeper folds, such as the nasolabial lines, which extend from the nose to the corners of the mouth.
Procedure
This non-surgical procedure generally takes place in a dermatologist's office. If you are particularly sensitive to pain, ask your doctor to administer a local anesthesia before to the procedure to minimize your discomfort. To inject the filler, your dermatologist uses a fine needle to deposit a small amount of the Juvederm gel underneath the wrinkle. The gel is placed in the middle or deep part of the dermis--the lower layer of your skin that contains blood vessels, connective tissue and the sweat and oil glands. The injection procedure takes about 15 minutes.
Side Effects
After treatment, some Juvederm recipients experience mild to moderate redness, swelling, bumps or firmness at the injection site. These reactions usually subside within seven days and can be eased by applying ice to the treatment area. Patients who are pregnant or nursing should postpone treatment, because the effects of Juvederm on fetal development has not been studied. The safety of Juvederm for use in patients under 18, people who scar easily or are prone to hyperpigmentation is also unknown.
Cost and Duration
While results will vary with each person, the FDA has affirmed that Juvederm dermal filler can last for up to one year. Smaller, touch-up treatments can extend the duration of your initial procedure, and repeat treatments also can maintain results. As of 2010, Juvederm injections ranged between $450 and $600 per syringe. The treatment of deeper creases, such as the nasolabial folds, may take one to two syringes, while smaller treatment areas, like vertical lip wrinkles, may require one small syringe.
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