Manhattan Facial Fillers
Manhattan Facial Fillers
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In Manhattan facial fillers and injection of filler materials into the skin to smooth wrinkles and fill facial depressions has always been an attractive option for facial enhancement. Collagen was the first FDA approved dermal filler. Collagen is derived from a bovine source, and requires pre testing to ensure there would be no allergic reaction. Subsequently, human derived collagen (Cosmoderm) has been introduced, to obviate the need for pre testing.
In the last decade, a number of alternative dermal fillers have gained FDA approval. They are fundamentally different from Collagen. These newer fillers include categories such as hyaluronic acid, calcium-based microspheres, and poly-L-lactic acid. The most commonly used category of dermal fillers in the US is hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a component of extra cellular matrix, or the material that is present in between cells in a living organ.
Hyaluronic acid fillers include: Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm Ultra,and Juvederm Ultra Plus. Restylane and Juvederm Ultra are made by different manufacturers, but have similar action profiles. These fillers can be injected into the deep or intermediate dermis (deep component of skin) and commonly last four to six months. Perlane and Juvederm Ultra Plus are counter parts of Restylane and Juvederm Ultra, with greater longevity in skin. In the manufacturing process, Perlane and Juvederm Ultra Plus are created with a greater number of molecular cross-links. The extra cross-linking slows the metabolism of the filler inside the body and prolongs its action. These products are most suitable for injection into the deeper dermis in the nasolabial folds (the folds that extend from the corner of the nose to the outer lip).
Radiesse is the only product available in the category of calcium-based microspheres. It can last upwards of twelve months. Radiesse is best suited for deep dermal injections and may require administration of some local anesthetic prior to treatment. Poly-L-Lactic acid is the main component of the dermal filler known as Sculptra. Sculptra is FDA approved for treatment of facial lipoatrophy (loss of fat in the face) experienced in HIV patients. Studies have shown Sculptra to last up to two years. Fat grafting is the other choice for eliminating facial lines, wrinkles, and depressions. Fat grafting gives permanent results, however, the procedure is more involved and requires a period of recuperation.
Obviously, there is a plethera of choices that are now avialable for treatment of facial lines, wrinkles, and depressions. During a consultation visit with Dr. Khosh, the advantages and disadvantages of various fillers can be discussed. Dr. Khosh has no commercial relationship with any of the manufacturers, and can therefore, provide an honest and unbiased recommendation in regards to choice of fillers for you. The aesthetic benefits of dermal fillers can be augmented through use of other cosmetic treatments such as Botox Cosmetic, or laser skin treatments. Some have applied the term “non-surgical face lift”, to this combination of treatments.
The photographs below depict the smoothing effect of Juvederm in the nasolabial folds.
Manhattan Facial Fillers: 212-223-1333
