How do Injectables Minimize Signs of Aging?
Smiling, frowning, laughing, crying – every emotion our face expresses contributes to fine lines and wrinkles. These repetitive motions cause the muscles in our face to contract. When we pair this with the loss of collagen and changes in skin elasticity that occurs as we age, we are left with visible signs of aging on the face in the form of fine lines and wrinkles. Luckily, non-surgical solutions are available to minimize these signs of aging, leaving you with a rested and youthful appearance.
Botox® and Dysport®
Botox® and Dysport® are derivatives of botulinum toxin and are used to treat fine lines and wrinkles appearing on the upper portion of the face. Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin that stops muscle contractions. When used in small amounts, this safe and effective treatment can relax the muscles responsible for crow’s feet, frown lines, and other memory lines. However, it does not “freeze” your muscles as some people believe. Instead, it blocks the nerve signals that tell the muscle to become tense, leaving you with a rested and happy appearance. While each patient’s experience is individual, you can generally expect Botox® and Dysport® to last between 3 and 6 months.
Restylane® and Juvéderm®
Restylane® and Juvéderm® both contain a modified form of hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally occurring in the body’s connective tissues. Hyaluronic acid retains moisture, leading to a hydrated and plump appearance. Just like collagen, our bodies begin to decrease hyaluronic acid production leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. By utilizing Restylane® and Juvéderm®, I can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and restore that plump, hydrated look to the face.
Juvéderm® contains a collection of five distinct fillers, and Restylane® contains a collection of seven distinct fillers each of which targets a specific area of the face. The newest Juvéderm® product, Juvéderm Voluma® XC, can not only restore volume to the cheek area but can also be used to non-surgically augment the chin. We are also proud to offer Restylane’s® newest product, Restylane® Lyft, which targets wrinkles around the mouth and volume loss in the cheeks. The results of each Restylane® and Juvéderm® product can last between 6 months and 2 years, and the body naturally reabsorbs the product.
Radiesse®
Radiesse® is different from Restylane® and Juvéderm® in that it is not hyaluronic acid. Instead, Radiesse® is a unique dermal filler that contains calcium hydroxylapatite – one of the world’s most well-known and well-studied dermal fillers. Using Radiesse®, I can accomplish two important tasks for my patients: restore volume loss and stimulate new collagen production.
We can’t blame only expression lines or only volume loss for signs of aging, as both elements play a part in overall aging. The initial restoration of volume with Radiesse® will smooth those visible fine lines and wrinkles that contribute to our aging appearance. Then, as time goes on, the dermal filler will begin to encourage the production of new collagen, a naturally occurring protein found in the body that is responsible for skin elasticity. As new collagen is produced, wrinkles and fine lines become less noticeable. The results of Radiesse® last up to two years, and the body’s metabolic process naturally reabsorbs the product.
With so many different options available, you can be left asking, “which option is right for me?” The best way to determine which injectable would be best suited for your aging concerns is to schedule a consultation with me, Dr. John LeRoy, at my Atlanta office. With decades of experience, I will be able to properly assess the current state of your skin and recommend a course of treatment that will be tailored to meet your specific goals. If you are considering injectables, I would be happy to discuss the benefits of these products with you in more detail. You can also follow me on Facebook for more updates and information.