Ask Emily.
What is the difference between BOTOX® and Juvéderm™?
While BOTOX® and Juvéderm™ are both used to rejuvenate a naturally aging face, they work very differently. Our facial expressions are created by flexing the muscles of our face in particular ways. Along with the effects of gravity, sun exposure, and natural skin aging, repeated muscle activity causes us to form creases in the skin. These are most commonly seen between the eyes and can look like the number “11,” around the outside of the eyes (“crow’s feet”), in the forehead and elsewhere. BOTOX® is injected into the muscles that cause creases. By reducing muscle activity, the creases go away. This effect typically lasts 3 to 4 months.
While BOTOX® prevents creases caused by muscle activity, there are times when the overlying skin has been permanently creased and BOTOX® will not work. Also, BOTOX® will not work to address areas that are hollow or thin, such as the lips, the hollows below the eyes, or in the crease between the cheek and the nose, To address these areas, a filler is required. Juvéderm™ belongs to the class of fillers called “Hyaluronic Acids.” It lasts around six months and can be combined with BOTOX® and other fillers.
One of our favorite combinations is to use BOTOX® to treat between the eyes and address “crow’s feet,” Juvéderm™ for thin lips, and Radiesse™ for the crease between the cheek and lips. These non-surgical procedures offer less downtime, but the results are often not as long lasting or dramatic as an appropriate surgical procedure. They are an excellent option for people who want to see how a longer-lasting surgical procedure would look. We will happily offer the surgical or non-surgical procedure that addresses your specific goals.
What options do I have for eliminating varicose veins?
Laser vein removal is most effective for veins less than 2mm in diameter, and for treatment of small residual veins or pigment changes after other cosmetic vein procedures. Typically, varicose veins are treated with radiofrequency ablation, ligation, or sclerotherapy. To treat your troublesome veins with the most effect treatment, we work closely with our cosmetic vascular surgery colleagues at Washington University to provide comprehensive and effective care.
How long do injectable fillers last?
How long any filler lasts is affected by the amount of muscle activity in that area, your body’s metabolism, and how much and where it was injected. In general, however, the Hyaluronic Acid fillers like Juvéderm™ and Restylane® typically last 5 to 7 months, though some patients report longer-lasting results. Similarly, Radiesse™ – a form of Hydroxyapatite – tends to work for about 12 months or longer. Sculptra® (poly-L-lactic acid) lasts for 18-24 months. Each filler has unique characteristics that may make it suitable for injection in one area, but not another. So, even if a filler lasts longer, it may not be advisable to inject it in certain locations. When used appropriately, fillers are an excellent tool for non-invasive facial rejuvenation.