It started with collagen and Botox, now there is Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm, and many that you have probably never even heard of like Captique and ArteFill. And it isn't just a bunch of brand names for the same product.
Most of them are made from different materials, have different risks, recovery periods, and purposes. Not all injectables are created equal, but depending on your needs, goals, and health concerns, there is probably one that will work for you.
- Natural Soft-Tissue Fillers
Soft-tissue injectables are used to plump up skin, lips, erase lines, and diminish the appearance of scars. Collagen is one of them. It can come from either human or bovine origin, is a naturally occurring substance and will eventually absorb into the body. Allergic reactions are the most common risk associated with injection. Results last four to six months, and though not currently a popular filler, it still works as well as newer injectables.
Fat is another that adds volume to facial lines and the lips. Fat cells are harvested from another area of the body and then injected. Since you're simply transferring fat from one part of your body to another, there is no risk of an allergic reaction. Sometimes the results can be permanent, but in some cases this might not work at all.
- Nerve Blockers
These involve the use of botulinum toxins to paralyze muscles. The most common cosmetic injectable in this category is Botox. It temporarily prevents the facial muscles treated from contracting to form fine lines and wrinkles.
There are a few similar injectables available outside of the United States that are not yet FDA approved. Botox risks include bruising, numbness, and when used near the eyes, drooping eyelids. Results last from four to six months. Currently it is one of the most popular injectable treatments.
- Soft Tissue Fillers with Hyaluronic Acid
This is an increasingly popular group of fillers that includes brands like Juvederm, Perlane, Captique and Restylane. While individual fillers have varying risks, results, and ingredients, they all use hyaluronic acid, which naturally occurs in the body and adds volume to the face and wrinkles.
They are used more often for deep folds, such as those occurring around the mouth and nose. Bruising, tenderness, and redness are potential risks but are rare and dissipate quickly. They often last longer than other types of injectables, anywhere from six months to a year, and continued injections can potentially last longer.
- Permanent Fillers
It may seem like a dream come true, but ArteFill may be the first truly permanent injectable available on the market. It is made of bovine collagen and smooth microspheres that cannot be absorbed back into the body like other fillers. It is generally used for the nasolabial folds. Swelling, redness, allergic reaction, and visible bumps from the particles are all potential complications.
Before choosing any filler or injectable, discuss with a board-certified and skilled cosmetic surgeon about all possible risks and complications. They will be able to make suggestions for you about which product to choose and what will work best for your individual situation.