Juvederm

Read more about Juvederm injections in Houston by dermatologist and Juvederm specialist Dr. Reena Jogi at West Houston Dermatology in Houston, Texas. 

What is Juvederm? 
Approved by the FDA in June of 2006, Juvederm is a hyaluronic acid filler which is used to treat moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds such as the nasolabial folds (also known as smile lines or “parentheses”). It is similar to Restylane and Perlane, though there are some unique characteristics that set it apart. Juvederm contains the highest amount of cross-linking of hyaluronic acid of any filler available in the US, and the result is a smooth, gel-like consistency which can restore youthfulness to the aging face in as little as one treatment. It’s the only hyaluronic acid filler that’s FDA-approved to last up to one year. 

What is hyaluronic acid? 
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring substance found throughout the body. It helps give volume to the skin, lubricates the joints, and gives shape to the eyes. With time and aging, hyaluronic acid is slowly lost from the skin, resulting in the lines and folds we know as wrinkles. Injectable hyaluronic acid can help add volume back to the face, resulting in a refreshed, restored, and rejuvenated appearance. 

The hyaluronic acid in Juvederm is not derived from animals, and it is highly biocompatible. Therefore no skin testing is necessary prior to treatment; however, if you have a history of severe allergies, inform your doctor so she can evaluate if Juvederm is appropriate for you. 

What areas can be treated? 
Juvederm can be used to correct: 
  • Lip borders, vertical lip lines and wrinkles 
  • Thinning lips, or lip enhancement 
  • Superficial forehead lines and crow’s feet 
  • Deep folds around the mouth (nasolabial folds, smile lines, “parenteses”) 
  • Marionette lines (vertical lines that run from the corner of the mouth down the sides of the chin) 
  • Fine lines and wrinkles 
  • Shaping the contours of the face, including the cheeks and chin 
  • Under eye hollows 
Juvederm is available as Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm UltraPlus, and your dermatologist may recommend a combination of these as indicated. Treatments can often be combined with Botox treatments for an enhanced effect. 

How long do results last? 
Juvederm typically lasts from 6 to 9 months depending on the area treated. In some studies the results were shown to last up to one year; however, individual results vary. Since results are temporary, touch-ups are needed to maintain the effects. A follow-up procedure 2 to 4 weeks after the initial injection can help lengthen the duration of the results and help you achieve the most optimal results. 

How is a Juvederm treatment performed? 
Juvederm is injected directly into the skin in the areas that need correction. A fine needle is used to maximize comfort, and the skin is cleansed thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection. Dr. Jogi usually applies a topical anesthetic to make the procedure even more comfortable, and, if needed, a nerve block may be performed. The newest form of Juvederm, Juvederm XC, is premixed with an anesthetic, minimizing discomfort even further. During and after the procedure, ice compresses are applied to minimize swelling and bruising. The procedure typically takes no more than 30 minutes, and there is little to no downtime following the treatment. 

What are the main side effects of treatments? 
Most side effects of Juvederm are usually mild to moderate in nature, and they typically resolve one week following the procedure. The main side effects include pain, tenderness, temporary swelling, redness, bruising, and bumps at the injection sites. Ice packs can help decrease swelling and bruising. 

Pre-treatment tips: 
  • Stop all blood thinners, including aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, herbal supplements, vitamin E, and red wine at least 7 days prior to treatment. If your blood thinner is essential because of a history of heart, neurologic disease, or blood clots, it is advisable to check with your primary physician prior to stopping these. 
  • Tell your dermatologist or plastic surgeon if you have a history of cold sores. Treatments around the mouth can occasionally trigger an outbreak, and in those patients with a history of cold sores (herpes simplex virus infection), prophylaxis may be indicated. 
  • Drink a little water and have some food about 30 minutes prior to your procedure. This will reduce the chance of your becoming light-headed during treatment, and it will be helpful if your treatments are around the mouth to avoid excessive movement of the mouth following the procedure. 
Post-treatment tips: 
  • Avoid alcohol for 24 hours following the treatment. 
  • Avoid activities that will increase your blood pressure for 4 hours following the treatment (saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, exercise, cardio). This will help reduce bruising. 
  • Allow the skin to breathe by refraining from applying makeup for one hour following the procedure. 
  • Avoid excessive facial expressions and movements and avoid strenuous exercise for 4 hours following the procedure.
  • Don’t massage or rub the area for 24 hours.
Find out if Juvederm is appropriate for you by scheduling your appointment with Dr. Jogi.
Comments