The Juvederm Alternative

Juvederm, Botox, and Other Alternatives- In June 2006, the FDA officially approved Juvederm as an injectable form of wrinkle filler. Despite its rather steep price, it quickly became a very popular form of non-invasive plastic surgery. It is used primarily for patients looking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and deeper skin folds on the face or other areas of the body. Juvederm is just one of many wrinkle filler injections based on one key ingredient: Hyaluronic Acid. 

This ingredient is beneficial to aging skin because it maintains skin volume by keeping it consistently hydrated. Since there are other alternatives to Juvederm, the choice of a filler injection often comes down to the experienced recommendation of a surgeon based on the skin and exact location to be treated. Micro-fat grafting is one alternative for facial treatments because it lasts longer than a Juvederm treatment. Radiesse is another alternative, especially for thicker skin or areas of thinner tissue. 

There are a wide variety of other non-surgical options that may be appropriate for different skin areas and conditions. A board certified plastic surgeon will be able to look at your skin and give you a better idea of what is best for you. 

Expected Expense You can expect to pay at least $400 for Juvederm treatment, but it can run upwards of $1,000 as well. The difference comes down to the area of the country you are having the procedure and the level of experience and accreditation your plastic surgeon has. Different medical practices will have different fee scales, with the best doctors often charging the higher rates. Duration of Benefits A Juvederm injection will last at least 3 months and up to 6 months, depending on the area being treated and the individual’s skin qualities. Just like Botox or any other type of medical injection, the procedure must be repeated at regular intervals to maintain the benefits. 

Side Effects/Complications The side effects that may arise after a Juvederm injection tend to be rather mild, but may include: 

* Temporary redness or other discoloration 
* Swelling at injection site 
* Pain or Sensitivity 
* Bruising 
* Itching 

Juvederm Alternatives There are many products that can bring relief of common signs of aging without the use of injections, but they take longer to go into effect. Yet, there are some high quality competing injections as well. For example, Radiesse is another filler that lasts longer and is highly effective for use in nasolabial folds. It is not appropriate for the lips. Another filler alternative is Evolence, which has a more firm texture and is also inappropriate for the lips. Usually used in the cheeks, Sculptra is known for lasting a year or more in most patients. 

For consumers looking for a permanent solution to skin that needs more volume, the FAMI procedure allows for the transfer of a patient’s own fat to the area in need of that fat. If you want to explore Juvederm or any of these alternatives, it all starts with a consultation with an approved professional in your local area.