Injectable cosmetic treatments are a relatively quick, easy way to enhance your appearance. These treatments can be tailored to your unique concerns, with formulas to treat all types of wrinkles and loss of facial fullness. Whether you are considering an injectable treatment for the first time, or you have had a number of sessions with your plastic surgeon already, there are a few key facts about these procedures that you need to know.
The Different Injectable Treatments
Injectable treatments can be broken down into two general categories: fillers and neuromodulators. Fillers can include dermal fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane, while neuromodulators include products like Botox or Dysport. Dermal filler treatments typically contain hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance that attracts water to restore youthful volume to the skin. Neuromodulators like Botox work by temporarily freezing the targeted muscles and reducing dynamic lines and wrinkles.
Not All Injectables Created Equal
While all injectables can effectively treat specific signs of aging, no injectable can treat all of your concerns in a single formula. Your choice of injectable will depend on the specific concerns you have and the results you want to achieve:
Wrinkles that appear with facial expressions: Botox
Wrinkles that are always present: Dermal fillers
Loss of volume in the cheeks or jawline: Dermal fillers
Loss of facial fullness with aging: Dermal fillers
Mouth that turns downward: Botox
Horizontal creases around the neck: Botox
Lips that lack fullness, definition: Dermal fillers
A Combination of Injectables May Be The Best Choice
Some patients will find that a combination of injectable treatments will offer the best possible results. Sometimes referred to as a “liquid facelift,” this highly customizable approach can address a myriad of concerns in a single procedure, offering dramatic results without anesthesia or incisions. Often, both Botox and a combination of dermal filler formulas are used with this approach to achieve a natural-looking, youthful appearance. Botox is often used as anti wrinkle injections while HA fillers restore lost volume.
Additionally, injectables can also be combined with other medspa treatments and medical procedures to achieve the desired results.
Temporary Results Must be Repeated
While injectables offer fast, relatively painless results, they do not provide permanent changes to your appearance. These procedures must be repeated periodically to maintain results. The duration of the treatment will depend on the individual patient and the specific formula used. For example, Botox results typically last 3-4 months, while most dermal fillers last 6-12- months. A few dermal fillers contain a unique formulation that can last up to 18 months in some patients, but they are not recommended for all aging concerns.
Who is a Candidate for Fillers?
Individuals who wish to enhance their appearance without surgery can often benefit from filler treatments. Ideal candidates will be 18 years and older with realistic expectations regarding what these treatments can achieve. Individuals who are pregnant or nursing, have a history of allergic reactions, certain skin conditions, or have recently undergone cosmetic surgery may not be ideal candidates. Please reach out to Dr. Andrews today to schedule a consultation.
Experience Still Counts with Injectable Procedures
While injectable treatments may seem fairly straightforward, a degree of skill and experience is required to ensure proper placement of the injections for the best results. It is important to choose an office that is accustomed to performing injectable procedures to ensure you have a safe and successful treatment experience.
Injectables are one of the most popular ways to turn back the clock and enhance your appearance today. To learn more about your choices in injectables, contact Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery at 319-500-4072 to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Kahlil Andrews or his staff.
