Smart Plastic Surgery.com > Face Procedures > Collagen, Juvederm, and Restylane

Collagen, Juvederm, and Restylane

What are injectables or soft tissue fillers?
What are the fillers made from?
How does a soft tissue filler work to reduce the appearance of wrinkles?
How much do soft tissue fillers cost?
Who is best qualified to do this type of procedure?

What are injectables or soft tissue fillers?

Soft tissue fillers are a class of substances that are injected into the skin, usually to combat the cosmetic affects of aging by minimizing the appearance of facial wrinkles and folds. The goal is to create smoother skin and a more youthful looking face. Fillers are also commonly used for lip augmentation.

What are the fillers made from?

Fillers such as Juvéderm and Restylane contain an ingredient called hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is found in the skin and cartilage of a healthy human body and is believed to play an important role in wound repair. Fillers are typically produced in a gel form so they can be easily deposited into the skin using ultra thin needles. Other common fillers may be made with collagen or even the fat of the actual patient.

How does a soft tissue filler work to reduce the appearance of wrinkles?

In a minimally-invasive procedure, the filler gel is carefully injected under the skin in strategic locations in and around the wrinkles. It’s called a “filler” because it fills-in the wrinkles (creases and folds in the skin). The injected filler gel creates an increased volume and plumpness under the skin where the targeted wrinkles and folds are located. This increase in skin volume makes wrinkles and folds much less visible, giving the patient smoother skin and a more youthful looking face. Results typically last about six months.

How much do soft tissue fillers cost?

In 2010, the U.S. national average surgeon’s fee for soft tissue injectables such as Juvéderm and Restylane is $547 and collagen injections average $475, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Who is best qualified to do this type of procedure?

Your safest choice is going to be a board certified plastic surgeon. They are certified for having extensive experience in cosmetic surgery and for being highly trained in both general surgery and plastic surgery. And they are located throughout the country. Find a board certified plastic surgeon in your area.