Procedures » Juvéderm^™ and Radiesse^™ Injections

Juvéderm^™ and Radiesse^™ are safe and natural cosmetic dermal fillers that restore volume and fullness to the skin to correct facial wrinkles and folds, such as lines around the mouth or nasolabial folds.

Juvéderm^™ Cosmetic Filler

Juvéderm^™ is an FDA approved filler that employs a unique manufacturing process to provide the highest concentration of cross-linked hyaluronic acid of any currently available hyaluronic acid dermal filler for long-lasting results. This advanced manufacturing process works to create a smooth consistency gel that flows easily into the skin and provides a smooth, natural look and feel. All other currently approved hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are made of granular consistency gels. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body and is fully biocompatible. Unlike collagen, no allergy testing is required before use. Juvéderm^™ is free from animal proteins which limits any risk of animal-based disease transmissions or development of allergic reactions to animal proteins. And, Juvéderm^™ is the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler that has demonstrated its safety and effectiveness in persons of color.

Juvéderm^™ is injected into or just under the skin and maintains its shape using the body's own moisture. Hyaluronic acid is hydrophilic or "water loving." As hyaluronic acid gradually degrades, each molecule binds to more water and over time, the same volume can be maintained with less hyaluronic acid. This ability of hyaluronic acid to bind to water is what helps provide long-lasting results. Currently, Juvéderm lasts about six to twelve months in the body. This amount of time can occasionally be lengthened by combining them with other injected agents such as BOTOX®. Local anesthetic blocks are usually administered into the designated area prior to injection in order to increase patient comfort. Temporary side effects including swelling and bruising can occur.

Radiesse^™ Cosmetic Filler

Radiesse^™ (formerly marketed as Radiance^™) is a cosmetic dermal filler that is used throughout the world to diminish the appearance of wrinkles, lines, and facial folds. It is FDA-approved for subdermal implantation for the correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds. In addition to the long-lasting results it provides as a cosmetic filler, Radiesse^™ is also FDA-approved in the United States to treat oral and maxillofacial defects, vocal cord deficiencies, and is used in the treatment of facial lipoatrophy (facial wasting) in patients with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Radiesse^™ is a cosmetic filler that has small microspheres (particles) suspended in a gel-like solution. There is no need for an allergy test prior to Radiesse^™ filler injections since the microspheres are comprised of calcium hydroxylapatite, a substance naturally found in the body. Prior to Radiesse^™ injection, local or topical anesthetic is typically used, after which the Radiesse^™ is injected beneath the skin using a very fine needle. After the procedure, some minor inflammation and swelling can occur, though this usually clears up within two to four days. Patients may also experience some temporary mild discomfort or tenderness. Most patients are able to immediately resume their normal activities.

For the first three months after Radiesse^™ treatment, it acts as a cosmetic filler, plumping up the skin and diminishing age lines. Then, Radiesse^™ microspheres stimulate natural collagen growth, actually causing new tissue development for extended results (up to two years). In addition, Radiesse^™ is useful in the treatment of facial lipoatrophy (a stigmatizing effect of HIV), vocal cord deficiencies, oral and maxillofacial defects, as well as scars and chin dimples.

Candidates for Radiesse^™ cosmetic filler treatment include patients showing obvious signs of facial aging. Radiesse^™ candidates commonly seek treatment for prominent smile lines, marionette lines, and other facial wrinkles. Radiesse^™ can also be used as an alternative to implant surgery, providing augmentation to a patient's nose, cheeks, or chin.

Dr. Green and Dr. Huang can help you determine which filler is appropriate for you.

Additional Information

• To schedule Juvéderm^™ or Radiesse^™ Injections in our Vancouver, Washington clinic contact us today.