subject: The Facts About Juvederm, Restylane, And Perlane [print this page] Though facial plastic surgery via traditional techniques is still a big business in America, more and more people are turning to alternative means to look younger and healthier. One of these surgical substitutions is facial, or dermal fillers. Injected under the skin, these fillers help to enhance shallow contours, plump up lips and remove or soften wrinkles. Three of the more well-known dermal fillers are Juvederm, Restylane and Perlane.
Juvederm, produced by Allergan, is an FDA-approved gel filler, infused with lidocaine to ease discomfort, used to smooth away the smile lines around noses and mouths. This is done by replacing hyaluronic acid (HA), naturally hydrating chemicals within the skin which dry up due to age or constant exposure to sunlight, or simply the aging process.
Restylane and Perlane, which are manufactured and distributed by HA North America AB, provide a more expansive scope when it comes to facial fillers. The standard version of Restylane helps smooth out the more moderate to severe wrinkles and folds. It has also been approved by the FDA to be used as a lip filler in patients over 21 years of age. Perlane can be used similarly, but contains larger gel particles to combat deeper wrinkles. The '-L' versions of Restylane and Perlane contain lidocaine to ease discomfort.
The lasting effects of the face filler injection depend on what product is being used. The manufacturer of Juvederm states one treatment of their gel can last for up to one year before any obvious signs of wrinkles return. A single injection of Restylane can last for about the same time before another treatment is needed. On the other hand, Perlane, due to its larger gel particles and its use on more severe wrinkles, may only last six months or so.
The potential side effects of all three products are similar. Redness and irritation can be common around the injection area for a period of a few days or none at all. If Restylane or Juvederm are used is used to plump up lips, there may be some puffiness and swelling which can last for 3-4 days. Cold sores could be reactivated with the stimulus of injection, and the patient and doctor should discuss any recent viral outbreaks. Overall, if performed properly, these sub-dermal facial fillers offer great outcomes with little risk.
Which facial filler is right for the consumer depends on where the wrinkles or depressions are located and their severity. A consultation with a doctor licensed to use Juvederm, Restylane, and Perlane is recommended prior to treatment in order to determine the best course. The general costs are the same amongst Juvederm and Restylane, while Perlane may be slightly more expensive. The procedures require about thirty minutes of time to be performed, giving consideration to analysis by the doctor, placement of the product, some off time to compare sides all the while giving as much or as little time it takes to achieve the expected results.
