One of the most frequently asked questions, regarding facial derma fillers is: What are the differences among Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane and Radiesse – and how do you choose the right one for you?
Those are excellent questions. However, since they all are formulated to treat or correct the same signs of aging, a good starting point would be noting the similarities before exploring the differences.
The derma fillers are designed to plump, or “fill,” albeit temporarily, the wrinkles, folds and loss of firmness created by the natural aging process. The key component of this aging process is the diminished production of our body’s own hyaluronic acid. And it’s that hyaluronic acid that three of the four fillers, Restylane, Juvederm and Perlane, have in common. Radiesse is comprised of calcium hydroxylapatite.
Being products that the body already produces, means that all of the above fillers will be easily accepted without allergy-testing or concern about rejection.
So which filler is best used for what?
Restylane and Perlane are practically identical, but Perlane is a denser product for filling deeper areas, like under the eyes, where the injections might be more noticeable. Aside from the eye area, these fillers are used for the nasolabial folds, between your eyebrows, around your mouth and and for redefining your lip borders. Both products last between 6 – 8 months, depending upon your age, skin type and use of your facial muscles.
Juvederm is similar to Restylane and Perlane but it seems to “inject smoother” than Restylane and is, therefore, better-suited to delicate under-eye and lip areas.
Radiesse is the newest of the fillers. It is definitely recommended for deeper folds and hollows and will last as long as 12 months.
Recent studies have indicated that Radiesse might also be among the products, like Sculptra that actually helps the body re-build its own collagen. In other words, when the product has completely left your body, your own collagen will continue to have some lifting, filling and firming effects.
The bottom line, with the fillers and all cosmetic dermatology procedures and products, is that your physician knows best! When it comes to your appearance, always put yourself in the hands, literally, of the most skilled expert!
