Understanding Cosmetic Injectables
There are many different methods to help alleviate the signs of facial aging, and by far the most popular are injectable cosmetic treatments and facial filers. According to statistics compiled by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number of cosmetic injectable treatments with either Botox® related products or soft tissue fillers has increased by more than 500% since 2000, and treatments with these injectable cosmetics alone accounted for more than half of all surgical and minimally-invasive cosmetic plastic surgery procedures performed in the United States last year. However, despite their astounding popularity, many still do not fully understand what these products do and how they can give you a more youthful and refreshed appearance. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about facial fillers and cosmetic injectables.
What is the difference between injectable cosmetics, like Botox®, and dermal fillers?
While these two products can often achieve similar effects, they actually work quite differently. A neuromodulator, like Botox® Cosmetic or Dysport®, temporarily alters the transmission of nerve impulses, relaxing the facial muscles that can cause wrinkles to form. Facial fillers, like Juvéderm®, Restylane®, or Perlane®, use hyaluronic acid (a substance that naturally occurs in youthful skin) to restore tissue volume that lessens over time. Think of wrinkles as mountains and valleys on the skin. Facial fillers effectively fill in the valleys while Botox®-related cosmetic treatments reduce the peaks.
How long do injectable cosmetic treatments last?
Typically, with adequate dosing, the effects of a Botox® treatment can last an average of three to six months. Additional injections may periodically be required in order to maintain the smooth, rested appearance in the treated areas. The results from hyaluronic acid-based facial fillers typically last from six months to as long as two years, depending upon the product, before additional maintenance treatments are necessary. Additional supplementary procedures, such as laser skin resurfacing or chemical peels, can also be performed to augment and refine the results.
How long does it take to recover from these treatments, and how long before I see results?
Unlike cosmetic plastic surgery procedures, a treatment with Botox® cosmetics or facial fillers is fast, relatively simple, and minimally invasive. A session may be as short as ten to fifteen minutes, depending on the individual patient, and if performed by an experienced and skilled practitioner causes only minimal discomfort. Most patients are able to go about their normal routine immediately after leaving the provider’s office. Most will begin to notice results within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure, although individual responses may vary.
Every patient is unique and there are many different options in facial rejuvenation, so it is important that you consult with one of our experienced, board certified plastic surgeons in order to determine what approach is best suited to your particular needs. If you are interested in learning more about any of the cosmetic plastic surgery procedures we perform, or about how the variety of financing options, including Alphaeon® and CareCredit®, that we provide can help you, please contact Atlanta Plastic Surgery, P.C. at one of our Atlanta, Alpharetta, Cumming, or Newnan offices. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for the latest news in plastic surgery.
