rejuvenation injectibles

Botox® Cosmetic

In recent years, Botox injections have proven to be the most popular non-surgical treatment for reducing wrinkles caused by the muscles that contract each time you laugh, smile or frown. Typically, the procedure is used to eliminate fine lines, wrinkles and deeper furrows around the eyes and forehead. Because Botox injections target and relax only the tiny muscles related to facial expressions, untreated muscles are not affected and contract normally. Within a few days after treatment, the overlying skin becomes smooth, creating a relaxed, rested appearance.

Due to the ultra-fine needle and small amount of liquid used, there’s no need for sedation or local anesthetic. Patients may resume normal activities immediately afterward. Injections take just a few minutes and last from three to six months. Side effects are few and temporary, with slight bruising being the most common. Please note that Botox will not improve sagging skin or wrinkles due to aging or sun damage, as they are not related to muscle contractions.

Dr. Chariker also treats patients with Hyperhidrosis, a disorder where the sweat glands are overactive and may affect the hands or feet. This disorder is often managed with Botox, and the procedure may be covered by your insurance.

Evolence®

Evolence® can immediately improve and refresh your appearance by smoothing out and softening unwanted wrinkles and folds, and restoring structure and facial contour in volume-depleted areas. The visible, natural-looking results are achieved immediately, with minimal-to-no downtime, so you can get right back to your daily activities. These immediate results last for at least six months, so you can avoid the costly repeat treatments often associated with other fillers.

Evolence® is injected by a trained physician or aesthetic professional, and your desired results may be achieved in just one visit. Only your physician or aesthetic professional can determine the best treatment approach for achieving your desired results.

Juvederm®

Juvederm®, from Allergan, is one of the newest injectable cosmetic fillers on the market. Safe and natural, Juvederm is used to restore volume and fullness to the skin. Usually, it is used to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles such as the nasolabial folds (flanking the nose and mouth).

Juvederm is made of non-animal-based, cross-linked hyaluronic acid, a substance found in the human body. For that reason, allergy testing is not required, so there’s no wait. Besides being convenient, results are instantaneous and enduring, lasting twice as long as traditional collagen (usually 4-6 months).

Radiesse®

This state-of-the-art facial filler is ideal for softening deep folds, creases and scars. Unlike other fillers, however, Radiesse is a gel composed of tiny beads of calcium phosphate. This safe, durable material can last up to two years, which makes it an economical choice for eliminating creases between the eyebrows, folds around the mouth and some deep facial scars.

Autologous Fat Injection

In some cases, it may be preferable to use a patient’s own fat to contour and tighten facial skin or enhance the lips. Known as autologous fat injection, this is a two-step process, often done in conjunction with a liposuction procedure. First, the fat is harvested from another area of the body (usually the abdomen or thighs) and purified before it is injected. Because fat is a bit larger than other filler materials, it is almost always injected more deeply into the skin and may be used over the entire face to reduce or eliminate wrinkles, scars and lines. Also, because the fat is from the patient’s own body, there is no possibility of an allergic reaction.

However, there are some disadvantages, including possible lumping or scarring. Some temporary swelling is to be expected, although recovery time will depend on the extent of the procedure. When larger amounts of fat are injected into the face, swelling may last several days to several weeks. Further, injected fat may not last as long as some other materials. Although most patients will permanently retain some of the injected fat, usually more than half of it is absorbed within six months of the procedure.