Juvederm
Juvederm is a sterile gel consisting of non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid, an important structural element in human skin and other tissues. Injecting Juvederm adds volume to the skin by filling in creases or depressed areas. The result is a softer and improved appearance of lines and a fuller appearance of the lips.
Correction of the injected sites generally lasts up to 6-9 months (4-6 months for the lips), however there is individual variation. Follow up treatments are required to help sustain the desired degree of correction.
Applications
Since its FDA approval in 2006 for the treatment of the nasolabial folds (creases between the nose and corners of the mouth), it has been widely used, although not FDA approved, to treat creases and wrinkles in other areas around the nose and mouth, and to enhance the fullness of the lips.
The Treatment
Injection results in some discomfort, but varies from person to person. Because of this, pretreatment with a topical anesthetic cream or gel about 1 hour prior to treatment is required. You will be instructed on how to properly apply the anesthetic for optimal effect. Occasionally, mostly for injections into the lip area, a dental block using an injectable anesthetic may be needed. This would require 20 minutes of extra time.
If you have a history of cold sores (fever blisters) of the lip area (Herpes simplex infection), please premedicate with an oral anti- herpes medication the day before and for 3-4 days following your procedure. We will supply you with a prescription if required.
Post Treatment
Several common injection-related reactions may occur. These include redness, swelling, lumpiness, bruising, discoloration. discomfort and itching. All typically resolve spontaneously within several days, but can last up to 3 weeks.
To minimize these, ice packs and head elevation are advised for the first 12-24 hours after injections. Also, avoid aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, Vitamin E, ginkgo biloba and ginseng for 7-10 days prior to treatment, as they all can enhance bruising.
Risks
Fortunately, significant complications or allergic reactions to Juvederm are rare, and prior skin testing is not required. About 1 in 5,000 treated patients experience localized reactions thought to be allergic in nature. These usually consist of redness and swelling at the implant site, and sometimes the surrounding tissues. They would occur one to several weeks after the initial treatment and last an average of 2 weeks.
Contraindications
Juvederm should not be used by individuals who are under the age of 18, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have areas of infection, are on immunosuppressive therapy or have a history of severe allergies or anaphylaxis.
Alternative Treatments
Alternative treatments include injection of Restylane, Radiesse, collagen, free-fat and several other filler substances that are not FDA approved, or do not have as good a safety profile as Juvederm.
Consultation and Costs
Insurance does not cover the injection of Juvederm as it is undertaken for cosmetic reasons. The patient is therefore responsible for the cost of the treatment. Your physician will discuss costs with you.
We require that you call to set up a Juvederm consultation prior to initiating treatment. This will afford you and your physician the opportunity to thoroughly discuss the procedure and to develop a treatment plan that is best suited for you.
The cost of the consultation is $125.00. Should you choose to initiate treatment, it will be deducted from the cost of your initial treatment session, which will be scheduled at a later date.
Each treatment session requires a deposit of $125.00 before it can be scheduled. This fee is not refundable, but will be deducted from the cost of the treatment. The balance must be paid in full at the time of the procedure.