Juvederm®

Your skin naturally produces hyaluronic acid, a sugar-based compound responsible for delivering and maintaining moisture and nutrient levels in skin cells, and which creates the appearance of volume and smoothness in young, supple skin. As we age, our skin’s ability to manufacture its own hyaluronic acid diminishes, which can lead to a deflated and wrinkled appearance.

Juvederm® is made of cross-linked hyaluronic acid particles. When injected into fine lines, wrinkles, furrows, or sunken areas of the face, it replaces the lost substance, giving you instant volume and smoother skin.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance typically found in the skin, muscles, and tendons of all mammals, including the human body. Its purpose is to deliver nutrients, hydrate the skin by holding in water, and act as a cushioning agent. In addition to its use as an aesthetic treatment, hyaluronic acid has also been used for more than 20 years for injection into arthritic joints to aid movement, as well as for eye surgeries and wound repair.

What is cross-linked hyaluronic acid?

The unique manufacturing process of Juvederm provides a high concentration of cross-linked hyaluronic acid for long-lasting results. “Uncross-linked” hyaluronic acid in its natural form is in a liquid state. “Cross-linking” is the process through which hyaluronic acid is made into a gel product that can be injected into the skin for long-lasting results.

Juvederm® is the only hyaluronic acid dermal filler FDA-approved to last up to two years. The unique manufacturing process of Juvederm provides a high concentration of cross-linked hyaluronic acid for long-lasting results. It also creates a gel of smooth consistency that flows easily into the skin, providing a completely natural look and feel. All other hyaluronic acid dermal fillers currently on the market are made of granular consistency gels. And Juvederm is the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler to demonstrate its safety and effectiveness in individuals of color.

Juvederm injectable gel is a hyaluronic acid dermal filler that provides volume in the face, used to treat wrinkles and folds resulting from a loss of volume.

Botox® is not a dermal filler. Botox relaxes muscle activity and is used to treat moderate to severe lines caused by the dominant frown muscles between the eyebrows (the glabellar area). This allows the two vertical lines between the brows, often referred to as the “11,” to disappear temporarily, resulting in a smoother appearance.

Yes. In fact, Juvederm injectable gel is the first FDA-approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler that has proven its safety and effectiveness regardless of skin color. Studies with Juvederm showed no increased risk of hyperpigmentation or hypertrophic scarring.

During your appointment, your physician will first discuss with you which areas should be addressed with Juvederm.

The product comes packed in a sterile, ready-to-use syringe.  The smooth consistency of Juvederm makes it more comfortable to receive than other dermal fillers, as thinner needles and less pressure can be used during injection. To further minimize the chance of discomfort, your doctor will numb the treatment areas of your face with a topical anesthetic cream.

The Juvederm filler process is quite simple. It is injected into the mid-to-deep dermis.  The whole procedure takes around 20-30 minutes.  Juvederm results are generally immediate and often last as long as two years.  Many patients combine Juvederm® dermal filler with Botox Cosmetic for an even more dramatic effect.

Good candidates for Juvederm dermal filler treatments are patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance of facial sagging, wrinkles, and creases, and would like to improve their appearance.

If you have severe scarring, very thin or loose skin, Juvederm may not be as effective.

Juvederm may not be a suitable option for women who are pregnant or nursing.

Although allergy testing is not required for patients before treatment, Juvederm should NOT be used in patients who have:

We advise patients to discontinue taking anti-inflammatory medications or aspirin one to three days before a Juvederm treatment. If you wear makeup, please refrain from wearing it to your Juvederm appointment.  You will be able to maintain your skincare and makeup routine after your treatment is complete.

Injections may cause some discomfort during and after the procedure. The amount of pain you experience would depend on your individual tolerance. However, the smooth consistency gel of Juvederm allows it to be administered more easily and smoothly with a fine needle. To further minimize discomfort, the treatment area will be numbed with a topical anesthetic.

After an injection, patients may experience some swelling, redness, and pain; however, once the swelling subsides, they will notice a smoother and more taut complexion. It is best not to touch or massage the treated area for a few days, and avoid using any products that contain alcohol on the face. Otherwise, everyday makeup routines may be resumed.  It is essential to wear sunscreen. Patients are also advised to avoid unnecessary exposure to heat, cold, and sun for up to two weeks following their injections.

Patients are typically quite satisfied with their results, which are noticeable and refreshed-looking without appearing overdone or obvious. Everyone will notice that you look refreshed, but no one will know why.

Results appear immediately and can last between 6 months and 2 years or more, depending on the specifics of your dermal filler treatment. Regularly scheduled treatments can help maintain improvements indefinitely.