Juvederm^® is composed of cross-linked hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the body. Hyaluronic acid plays a key role in the maintenance of skin volume and hydration, eye volume and shape, as well as joint lubrication and cushioning.  

Hyaluronic acid retains water -- absorbing more than 1,000 times its weight -- and adds volume to the skin’s surface. In addition, hyaluronic acid binds with collagen and elastin, transporting essential nutrients to these fibers. The triple combination of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid provides structure, elasticity and volume to the skin and contributes to its overall appearance.  The hyaluronic acid in Juvederm^® is called non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) because it is not derived from animal sources.

For decades, hyaluronic acid has been utilized by medical practitioners in numerous therapeutic procedures. In 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler for the correction of facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds (the folds running from the sides of the bottom of the nose to the outer corners of the mouth).  Juvederm^® comes in two formulations:


Juvederm^® Ultra

Juvederm^® Ultra  (also known as Juvederm^®) is a next-generation, cross-linked hyaluronic acid dermal filler approved by the FDA in June 2006 for treatment of nasolabial folds.  Juvedermt^® Ultra  adds volume to the face and smoothes moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds.  With advanced injection techniques, Juvederm^® can also be used to lift and contour facial features.   
 
Cross-linking refers to a process in which the individual chains of hyaluronic acid are bound or ‘cross-linked’ together, transforming the liquid hyaluronic acid into a soft gel. The firmness of the gel depends on the degree of cross-linking of the individual hyaluronic acid chains. The body metabolizes cross-linked hyaluronic acid more slowly, resulting in a longer duration of effect.

As an advanced, cross-linked hyaluronic acid, the results of a Juvederm^® treatment will typically last up to a year or more.  Results will vary depending upon injector technique, the facial area in which it is applied, and upon the individual’s muscle movement, skin and health characteristics.  For example, in areas of the face where there is less exaggerated muscle movement, Juvederm^® will often last longer. Regular BOTOX^® treatments in conjunction with Juvederm^® may help extend the duration of Juvederm^®.   Juvederm^® is typically used to correct finer lines or for less bulking than Juvederm^® Ultra Plus.

Juvederm^® Ultra Plus

Juvederm^® Ultra Plus (also called Juvederm^® Plus) has more cross-linked molecules per ml than Juvederm^®, and therefore is used to treat deeper wrinkles and folds.  Healthcare professionals also use Juvederm^® Ultra Plus in some liquid face lift procedures where more bulking or more defined sculpting is desirable.  It provides more volume than Juvederm^® Ultra and some other dermal fillers.    

The most common side effects of Juvederm^® Ultra and Juvederm^® Ultra Plus include temporary redness, swelling, bumps and bruising.  Consult your medical practitioner for complete details and potential side effects.  

A medical practitioner who is more experienced with Juvederm^® will be far more likely to achieve better, more pleasing and enduring results, which means you are getting more for your money. We have determined a number of medical practitioners nationally who have extensive experience or training with dermal filler medical procedures.  To see a list of experienced healthcare professionals in your area, or to receive a special discount on your procedure, click here. 

 FOLLOW THIS LINK TO RECEIVE A SPECIAL DISCOUNT ON YOUR NEXT PROCEDURE

Featured Healthcare Professionals:

Juvéderm^® and BOTOX^® are registered trademarks of Allergan, Inc.