Like some other hyaluronic acid dermal fillers including Captique and Restylane, Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm Ultra Plus are made from bacteria. Because of that similarity, many patients find it difficult to choose between fillers.
As long as the dermal filler works, few patients care about the details. Sadly this can be an expensive mistake. While the hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are made from bacteria, they are not all created equal.
What Is Juvederm Made Of?
Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm Ultra Plus are made from a certain type of Strep bacteria similar to, but certainly not exactly like, the bug that causes Strep throat. We have advanced genetic engineering to such a degree that we can now change the genes in bacteria to do our bidding.
This is what the manufacturers of Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm Ultra Plus have done. They have created bacteria with just the right genes to pump out loads and loads of hyaluronic acid. What the makers of Juvederm have also managed to do is make that hyaluronic acid highly cross-linked.
Ideal Candidates for Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm Ultra Plus
Patients who are considering Juvederm Ultra or Juvederm Ultra Plus should understand their suitability for treatment. These dermal fillers are ideal for individuals looking to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles, nasolabial folds, or to enhance volume in the lips and cheeks.
Juvederm Ultra is often preferred for fine lines and lip augmentation, while Juvederm Ultra Plus is typically used for deeper wrinkles and more significant volume loss due to its thicker consistency.
Individuals seeking long-lasting facial rejuvenation with minimal downtime should consult a board-certified provider to determine which Juvederm product is best aligned with their cosmetic goals.
The Importance of Cross-Linking in Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
The more cross-linked the hyaluronic acid, the longer it lasts in the skin. Consider that hyaluronic acid is a natural component of every person’s skin. That means that the human body has a way of producing hyaluronic acid and a way of breaking it down and clearing it from the body.
This building up and breaking down is a theme throughout biology to keep tissues fresh and healthy. A simple hyaluronic acid molecule is easy for the body to break down. An enzyme snaps it in two or tags it for removal and away it goes.
However, if that hyaluronic acid is attached to a number of other hyaluronic acid molecules, it cannot be broken down so easily. The result is a long lasting effect of the hyaluronic acid dermal filler in the skin.
Juvederm Ultra Plus: Longer-Lasting Results Compared to Other Fillers
Every patient will break down hyaluronic acid at different rates. In other words, one person injected with a filler may get six months of cosmetic benefit while another patient may enjoy a full year. However the amount of cross linking of hyaluronic acid will increase any person’s duration of benefit from the treatment.
In fact, Juvederm Ultra Plus has just about the highest amount of cross-linking available in a hyaluronic acid dermal filler. Patients that received Juvederm Ultra Plus injections into wrinkles and lines of the face can expect positive effects to last for nine to twelve months on average. This effect is about twice as long as most other hyaluronic acid dermal fillers.
Juvederm vs. Restylane: What’s the Difference?
Many patients compare Juvederm to Restylane when choosing a hyaluronic acid filler. While both are FDA-approved and used to address similar concerns, the primary difference lies in their texture and cross-linking technology.
Juvederm products tend to have a smoother gel consistency, allowing for easier injection and a more natural look in some facial areas. Restylane, on the other hand, is slightly firmer and may be better suited for precision placement, particularly in areas with fine lines.
Patients searching for the best dermal filler for smile lines or longest-lasting filler for wrinkles should weigh these differences in consultation with their aesthetic provider.
Is Juvederm Worth the Cost?
If you are considering a hyaluronic acid dermal filler, the duration of the beneficial effect is something to take into account. The longer that a dermal filler lasts, the fewer treatments are needed to maintain the facial filling effect.
Fewer treatments mean fewer injections and less expense over the long term. While Juvederm Ultra Plus may cost slightly more than other hyaluronic acid fillers, fewer treatments may mean a cost savings ultimately.
Aftercare Tips for Juvederm Injections
To maximize results and minimize side effects from Juvederm Ultra or Juvederm Ultra Plus, proper post-treatment care is essential. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and exposure to excessive heat or sun for at least 24 hours after their injections.
Minor swelling or bruising is common, but applying a cold compress can help alleviate discomfort. Avoiding makeup immediately after the procedure and sleeping with the head elevated may also reduce swelling. Following your provider’s aftercare instructions ensures optimal results and can extend the longevity of your Juvederm treatment.