Juvederm

Juvederm is an injectable gel implant that includes hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural complex sugar that bolsters skin elasticity, providing a smooth and supple appearance. It is biocompatible, and supplements the body's natural hyaluronic acid, which becomes depleted with age.

The Juvederm Procedure

Transparent Juvederm gel is injected by syringe into the mid- to deep dermis (sub-surface layer that contains connective tissue, nerve endings, sweat and oil glands, and blood vessels) of your face.

It will improve your appearance by lifting and adding volume to the wrinkles and folds in the treated area. Within six to nine months your body will absorb the biocompatible compound. The gel filler is available in three formulas:

• Juvederm 18 is a fluid gel intended for the superficial (upper) dermis to treat fine lines such as crow's feet.
• Juvederm 24 is a denser gel injected into the mid-dermis to treat moderate lines such as forehead winkles.
• Juvederm 30 is the densest gel, and is used to treat the deep dermis for deep between your cheeks and nose for enhancing lip volume, and for reshaping cheek contours.

An advantage of Juvederm is its pliancy, which can provide a smoother, more natural-looking appearance than some of its more rigid precursors. Another advantage is that it may last longer, as long as six to nine months, lasting longer than collagen injections.

Recovery From Juvederm Injections

Juvederm patients don’t have any special recovery requirements but you will most likely be instructed by your doctor to stay out of the sun for a few days. You will more or less resume normal activity immediately, but be careful to follow your doctor’s instructions.

Cost of Juvederm Injections

Juvederm normally costs between $300 and $1,000 per syringe, depending on the formula. Some cases call for a second syringe, and many clinics offer a discount on the second syringe.

It is highly unlikely that your health insurance will cover this cosmetic procedure, but if you cannot pay all at once there may be payment plan options. As with any cosmetic precedure, there are usually financing options available through a third party company.

Risks of Juvederm Injections

Side effects are rarely experienced with Juvederm, and are certainly rarer than with Botox, but may include pain at the injection site. This will normally subside within three days. Very rarely, discoloration may occur, but this is completely reversible. Firmness, swelling, bumps, and bruises may also occur, but will almost certainly subside within seven days.