Juvederm is a hyaluronic acid injectable gel. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that adds volume and hydration. With age, our collagen production diminishes and along with it the hyaluronic acid of the skin. Juvederm delivers hyaluronic acid to your skin, adding volume and helping to smooth wrinkles and folds. It is most commonly used for smile lines (also known as nasolabial folds), marionette lines (peri-oral lines), and lip augmentation. The procedure takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes with minimal downtown or recovery and lasts 6 to 12 months.
A topical anesthetic may be used to reduce pain associated with this treatment. Patients are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes prior to their scheduled appointment time to apply the numbing cream. A mild anesthetic may also be combines with the product to immediately reduce discomfort during the treatment. The discomfort after the procedure is minimal, and Tylenol may be taken for any post-procedural discomfort.
In addition to discomfort, patients may experience minor swelling from the treatment. On average this resolves within 24 hours. However, it may last as long as 72 hours. We recommend applying ice intermittently after the treatment to reduce swelling. Patients may resume normal activities after receiving treatment, and may apply makeup to conceal any bruising or redness.