Archive for October, 2009

What is the best wrinkle filler?

Wednesday, October 14th, 2009

There is no one filler best for every patient, every need. Each has a strength that makes it better for certain situation.

There are a number of wrinkle filler products available with different characteristics. I will mention them in order of longevity.

The first group are the Hyaluronic Acid products. There are a number of products containing this material. These include:

Restylane, Perlane, Elevess,  Juvederm, and Hydrelle

Restylane and Perlane are stiffer, particle gels, making them good for defining. They last abour 3 to 6 months

Juvederm, and Hydrelle  is a homogenous gel that is the best for soft lush lips. They last about 6 to 12 months

I use the mostly under the eyes, or for lip augmantation

Other types of fillers include Radiesse and Sculptra. These are also available off the shelf with no preparation.

Radiesse is a hydroxyapatite product (similar to the material found in bone) and lasts about 9 to 18 months. I use Radiesse mostly to enhance the cheecks.

Sculptra is a poly-L-lactic acid product (similar to suture material used in surgery) and lasts about 1 to 2 years. This is more of a volume filler than a wrinkle filler.

All of these products can be used to effectively in the face. However, as mentioned, all of the products listed above are temporary fillers.

The only FDA approved permanent filler that is available off the shelf is Artefill. This product can improve wrinkles permanently with excellent results.