I read a very interesting article in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal last night regarding the use of injectables to nonsurgically improve the facial appearance.  Over the years I have developed significant amount of knowledge on the safety and efficacy of injectables.  It is however always encouraging when our thoughts are reinforced by articles published by members of the surgical community outlining their use of similar technology.

Injectable products which are comprised of hyaluronic acid continue to be the number one used injectable across the country.  Their safety and efficacy has been widely proven with millions of procedures performed with these products.  They have proven very useful in lip enhancement and recontouring of the lower and upper face to establish a more youthful appearance.  We currently use a product called Juvederm.  In Juvederm the hyaluronic acid molecule is somewhat larger than some of the other products available and therefore lasts longer.  We have recently incorporated a new product called Prevelle Silk which although it doesn’t last as long has proven useful in finer lines and is less expensive.

Another product which we frequently use is called Radiesse.  The active ingredient is a calcium product which naturally occurs in the skin.  Over time the body replace the calcium with collagen to rejuvenate the skin. Although not recommended for lip augmentation Radiesse has proven very useful in improving deep lines of the mid and lower face.

I currently have two nurse injecters in the office, both of which are highly trained and experienced in the use of these injectables.  I have been very careful to only select products which have a proven safety record as well as a high degree of efficacy and patient satisfaction.  There are other more permanent injectables on the market but I am concerned about possibility of scarring and deformity with some of these products, which can be difficult to treat.  Should you be interested in these forms of facial rejuvenation which do not require surgery please contact the office for a free consultation.