Other associated terms: Juvéderm Voluma™, Hyaluronic Volumiser, Juvéderm Ultra™, Hyaluronic Acid.
Juvéderm is a newer injectable filler used in cosmetic surgery to add volume to lips or conceal folds and wrinkles in the face. Juvéderm is mostly composed of hyaluronic acid which is a substance that is normally found in the tendons, skin and muscles of animals and was first used in 1996 for facial augmentation.
Juvéderm was approved in 2006 by the F.D.A. and its main uses are removing skin creases, removing scars and lip augmentation. It should be considered a temporary fix, however, since the filler is re-absorbed into the body within 6-9 months. After that, additional treatments are needed to maintain results.
Benefits of Juvéderm
The benefit of Juvéderm is that it is effective in treating; hollows underneath the eyes, creases around the corners of the mouth, minor scars, vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows and providing lip augmentation that can give a more fashionable appearance.
Since it is mostly composed of a naturally occurring substance in the body, it is highly compatible with human tissue.
The main benefit with an injectable filler like Juvéderm is that one can avoid the normal risks, downtime and pain associated with standard surgical procedures.
Although complications with standard surgery are rare with board-certified cosmetic surgeons, there are still the disadvantages associated with anesthesia, bandage dressings and recovery times necessary for healing. These issues are eliminated with injectable fillers. The overall costs are much less, as well.
Comparing Juvéderm to Other Dermal Fillers
While Juvéderm is a highly effective hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler, it is not the only option available for facial volume restoration and wrinkle reduction.
Other popular fillers include Restylane™, Radiesse®, and Sculptra®. Restylane is also made of hyaluronic acid but tends to be slightly firmer, making it ideal for precise areas like under the eyes. Radiesse contains calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres and is best suited for deeper facial folds and volume loss in the cheeks.
Sculptra, on the other hand, stimulates collagen production, providing longer-lasting results but requiring multiple sessions.
Consulting with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon will help determine which filler best suits your aesthetic goals and skin type.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Juvéderm?
Juvéderm is suitable for adults looking to reduce wrinkles, add volume to lips, and restore facial contours without undergoing invasive surgery.
Ideal candidates should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and not be allergic to hyaluronic acid or lidocaine, which is commonly included in Juvéderm formulations for comfort.
It’s also essential that candidates avoid blood-thinning medications like aspirin and ibuprofen before treatment to minimize the risk of bruising. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before considering dermal fillers.
If you’re unsure whether Juvéderm is right for you, a consultation with an experienced aesthetic specialist can provide personalized recommendations.
It’s important that, during the initial consultation, the doctor determines if the patient can benefit from an injectable filler procedure as opposed to a more traditional surgical approach.
This can assist the patient with understanding the benefits, limitations and reasonable expectations of the result outcome. This can also be a good opportunity to assess the patient’s health, skin condition and other factors associated with a favorable result.
Procedure
There is usually very little pre-injection preparation for Juvéderm. A topical anesthetic (with possibly an oral sedative) will be given and the injections will begin, once the medications take effect.
The cosmetic surgeon will use a tiny needle to inject small amounts of the filler at specific locations on the face in order to increase the volume needed to achieve satisfactory results. The procedure will usually take around 15-30 minutes to complete and that will depend on the size of the area that is being treated.
Recovery
One of the main advantages of Juvéderm is the minimal recovery time needed after the procedure. The patient is usually able to return to their normal activities directly following the procedure – but are cautioned against strenuous activity, heat exposure, sun exposure and alcohol use for a period of time.
There may be some puffiness after the procedure and some bruising (rare). Other skin treatments, such as laser therapy, chemical peels, etc. should be postponed until after the Juvéderm treatment in order to avoid possible inflammation risks.
How Long Does Juvéderm Last?
One of the key considerations when choosing a dermal filler is its longevity. Juvéderm’s results typically last between six to nine months, but in some cases, they can last up to a year, depending on factors like the patient’s metabolism, skin type, and treatment area.
Juvéderm Voluma™, which is designed for deeper injections in the cheeks, can last up to two years. Patients who want to extend their results often schedule maintenance treatments before the filler completely dissolves.
To maximize the longevity of Juvéderm, it’s recommended to follow a healthy skincare routine, avoid excessive sun exposure, and stay hydrated.
Risks Associated with Juvéderm
Although risks are minimal with Juvéderm, there are some normal, expected issues that can include redness and tenderness which are temporary. More serious, but rare, complications can involve infection and immune system issues that can result in granulomas (facial bumps).
This will preclude the use of Juvéderm in patients who are subject to severe allergic reactions to bacterial proteins and certain other drugs.
Cost of Juvéderm
The region where you live will determine the cost of Juvéderm treatment. However, national averages for treatments utilizing one vial of Juvederm run between $300 and $575. To put this in perspective, a half vial of Juvéderm will treat one major facial fold.