Injectable Filling Agents

Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm Ultra Plus – Several very popular forms of injectable stabilized hyaluronic acid gel have been FDA approved in the United States. These are very safe and effective for wrinkle correction, lip enhancement and facial contouring. Hyaluronic acid is a biodegradeable, but long-lasting injectable agent. It produces a very natural augmentation effect. This can be used for fine lines or for larger volume augmentation, such as nasolabial folds and for a very effective lip augmentation. The augmentation is usually performed using some adjunctive local anesthetic and can be expected to last for six months or more, depending on the product and areas treated.

Radiesse – Radiesse is an FDA approved biocompatible implant material for long lasting soft tissue augmentation. Radiesse is used in facial augmentation procedures including treatment of nasolabial and melolabial folds, correction of scars, lines and wrinkles and soft tissue augmentation, as well as usage to augment skeletal or bony features in some instances. Side effects are minimal, but can include temporary bruising. Correction obtained with this agent is long lasting, but usually a second injection is required at about 4-6 months. This can produce a significant correction last 12-24 months, depending on the areas treated. Radiesse is not used for lip augmentation, but is a very effective volume filler for deep folds and wrinkles. Injections are performed using adjunctive local anesthetic.

Other fillers are now on the market, but Dr. Putman prefers to use those detailed above because of their combination of safety, efficacy and longevity.