Non- surgical treatments to improve facial beauty and reverse the signs of aging are in high demand. At Elite Plastic Surgery we offer up to date techniques and products administered by highly skilled providers to achieve your facial aesthetic goals. The use of dermal fillers can be an important part of the plan of care to deliver a balanced and natural appearing result. Dermal fillers allow us to enhance the beauty of facial features by adding volume to areas such as lips and cheekbones. Dermal fillers also work to restore a youthful appearance by visibly reducing folds and wrinkles.
At the Elite Plastic Surgery office in Grand Rapids, patients can address cosmetic concerns with proven injectable solutions like Juvéderm® XC.
What Is Juvéderm?
Juvéderm XC is a hyaluronic acid soft tissue filler that is manufactured utilizing HylacrossTM technology. This manufacturing process takes the fluid particles of hyaluronic acid and cross-links them within a smooth gel base. This method of processing strengthens strands of hyaluronic acid particles, so they hold together beneath the skin for longer lasting results.
In addition to possessing a smooth but viscous consistency, Juvéderm XC is also formulated with lidocaine to softly numb superficial tissue during treatment.
What Is Juvéderm Used For?
We routinely use Juvéderm XC to correct a variety of cosmetic concerns. The relatively small particle sizes of hyaluronic acid in this product are ideal for filling in smile lines and marionette lines. Juvéderm XC may also be used to restore volume to deflated lips and cheeks.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Juvéderm Xc?
Most adults who are concerned about the signs of aging they are experiencing are good candidates for Juvéderm XC dermal filler. The hyaluronic acid that is used to make this product is organic; the body makes it naturally. Because of this, there is little risk of allergic reaction to the filler.
It is important to us that patients achieve the outcome they desire. Before performing Juvéderm XC treatment, we perform a thorough consultation and skin assessment. Dermal filler treatment is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and may need to be postponed if there is an active infection or acne flare-up in the treatment area. During our consultation, we will discuss what results can be expected with Juvéderm XC and confirm that they align with patient expectations.
When Will I See Results AfterJuvéderm Injections?
One of the primary benefits of dermal filler treatment vs. neuromodulators like Botox is that fillers immediately alter the appearance of the skin. As we insert the product into superficial tissue using a blunt cannula, we observe its spread and can manipulate this with gentle massage strokes to achieve the best outcome.
How Long Do The Results of Juvéderm Last?
The hyaluronic acid in Juvéderm XC naturally breaks down over time. Therefore, the results of treatment gradually diminish. This is advantageous because this transition mimics the natural aging process. Patients may notice that their results last about a year. However, every person metabolizes the product differently. Retreatment may be scheduled either to enhance the results of initial injections or to maintain the appearance that is desired.
Do Filler Injections Hurt?
We perform dermal filler injections using a blunt cannula as well as a standard needle. The blunt cannula is flexible and it allows us to insert a product using fewer injections. Also, having no sharp tip, the cannula is not likely to accidentally nick a blood vessel. Patients also tend to experience less bruising and tenderness after treatment.
The Juvéderm XC formulation contains lidocaine, which has a subtle numbing effect on tissue as soon as the product is inserted. If you are concerned about discomfort, please let us know during your consultation so we can discuss additional strategies such as cold packs or topical numbing cream to be incorporated into your treatment.
How Many Juvéderm Treatments Will I Need?
A single treatment with Juvéderm XC will produce noticeable results that last up to one year. However, it is also possible to schedule additional injections to achieve more dramatic results. Many patients plan touch-ups every nine to twelve months to keep their skin plump and smooth.
How Does Juvéderm Compare to Restylane?
We offer both Juvéderm XC and Restylane dermal fillers because the slight differences may make one product more appropriate than the other for specific goals. Like Juvéderm XC, Restylane is a hyaluronic acid dermal filler. Where it differs slightly is in structure and concentration. Because the hyaluronic acid particles in Juvéderm XC are cross-linked and more tightly bound, the concentration of the acid is higher in this product. However, the looseness of hyaluronic acid particles in Restylane is offset by their size, making this product appropriate for thicker skin, more dramatic lip fullness, and cheek contouring.
Can Juvéderm Be Combined with Other Treatments?
Yes. Patients often combine injectables such as Juvéderm XC and Botox to achieve more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Schedule Your Consultation
We can help you refresh your facial aesthetic. Call (616) 459-1907 to schedule a visit at our Grand Rapids location.
