injectables
Much progress has been made with injectable dermal fillers in improving the effects of facial aging. Filler can be used to treat moderate to severe wrinkles and facial folds as well as the enhancement of certain facial features. Dermal fillers work to create and replace volume within this space using hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance found naturally in the body. Dermal fillers are manipulated skillfully to sculpt the face and contour, adding definition to the natural lines of bone structure. There are many options when it comes to the type/brand of dermal fillers and each has unique characteristics. During the initial consultation, these options are discussed and the proper filler is selected based on individual needs.
Botox® & Dysport®
These two treatments are anti-wrinkle injections from the family of botulinum toxins. Because of their long history and proven results, these medications continue to be a mainstay in anti-aging medicine. The product is delivered to the area of concern via a small needle and muscle relaxation is achieved. This results in an improvement of mild to moderate facial lines and wrinkles. As the skin relaxes, wrinkles are offered time to smooth over and subtle facial asymmetries are corrected. Understanding knowledge of the anatomy and the dynamic balance is crucial.
Kybella®
Kybella® is a prescription medicine used in adults to improve the appearance and profile of moderate to severe fat below the chin (submental fat), also called “double chin.” The active ingredient in Kybella® is synthetic deoxycholic acid. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath the chin, Kybella® destroys fat cells, resulting in a noticeable reduction in fullness under the chin. Once destroyed, these cells can no longer store or accumulate fat, so further treatment is not expected once you reach your desired aesthetic goal. At your consultation, your provider will determine if you are a candidate and how many treatments you require to meet your aesthetic goal.
Sculptra
Sculptra is an injectable cosmetic filler that can be used to restore facial volume lost due to aging. It contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible, absorbable material that stimulates collagen production. We start to lose collagen each year beginning at around 30 years of age. As you age, your body’s collagen production decreases, and you may begin to see wrinkles or sagging. Fat loss beneath the skin also results in drooping skin, hollowed cheeks, indentations, and depressions in the face. It can be used to treat facial fat loss, deep lines, creases, and folds to yield a more youthful appearance. Sculptra has a unique mechanism where it is one of the few that actually causes new collagen formation
Sculptra works by stimulating your own body to produce collagen in response to Poly L Lactic Acid. When Sculptra is injected, results are seen immediately, but subside rather quickly because it is mostly saline and lidocaine. The true results will become more apparent over the following months, and only get better!
Sculptra is different from typical hyaluronic fillers in that Sculptra takes 4 weeks to start to see results, requires a few treatments, lasts longer than hyaluronic fillers, and promotes your body to naturally produce collagen.
Sculptra before and after
