All of us have noticed wrinkles develop over time as a result of the aging process. There are many products on the market that are utilized to fill in these natural lines. Some products last longer than others, and all of them have specific risks and benefits. Gaining some knowledge on these products will allow you to make an informed decision as to what filler may work best for you. Here is some general information on the most popular products on the market today.

Restylane is a dermal filler made of a natural substance hyaluronic acid found in the human body. It has been used since 1996 and has been very safe without the need for a skin test. Restylane lasts approximately 4 to 6 months in areas around the mouth and is also being used in areas under the lower lid which may last for 1 to 2 years!

Juvederm is a newer generation cosmetic facial filler that is reported to have a higher concentration of hyaluronic acid with a smoother less viscous formula. It is used to fill in wrinkle lines around the mouth as well as in the lower lid. It also may last up to 6 months.

Radiesse is a dermal filler that is made of calcium-based microspheres suspended in a natural gel. The microspheres are gradually absorbed by the body, as the body’s collagen grows into the scaffold. Radiesse is best used in the nasolabial folds and can last up to 1 yr. or longer.

Artefill is another new injectable filler recently approved by the FDA and is the first non-resorbable wrinkle filler for the correction of smile lines. The PMMA microspheres are non-resorbable thus providing permanent support for a reported 5 years or longer. As it is mixed with purified bovine collagen, a skin test is necessary to screen for an allergic response.

All of the above injectable fillers are reportedly safe and approved by the FDA. With all of the above fillers, there may be mild swelling or reddening at the treatment site which usually resolves within 1 to 3 days.

Feel free to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sorsoky or Dr. Park to ask them about their experience using these products.