Some wrinkles, like smile lines, can add character to your face, but many people find them an unwelcome reminder of the aging process. Luckily, advancements in cosmetic medicine have introduced various non-surgical anti-aging solutions, including injectable treatments that can have you in and out of our office in only a few minutes, with no stitches, scars, or recovery time.
Neuromodulators
You’ve almost certainly heard of BOTOX®, which has been a staple of aesthetic medicine since earning its first FDA approval for cosmetic use in 2002. BOTOX® and a similar product called XEOMIN® derive from a purified version of the botulinum toxin. These products work by blocking the nerve signals that cause tiny facial muscles to contract, relaxing existing wrinkles, and preventing new ones from forming.
Neuromodulators are right for you if you’re chiefly worried about wrinkles such as brow furrows, crow’s feet, and the “11 lines” between your eyebrows. Dr. Schmidt has also successfully used these products to treat perioral wrinkles, chin dimples, neck banding, and “bunny lines” on the nose. Typically, the effects of these medications wear off after three to four months, so you’ll need to plan periodic touch-up appointments to maintain your look.
Dermal Fillers
When you’re considering injectables, it’s crucial to note the difference between neuromodulators and dermal fillers like Belotero, Juvéderm®, and Radiesse®. Instead of relaxing wrinkles by preventing muscle contractions, dermal fillers are gel-based, nontoxic solutions to wrinkles, acne scars, and age-related volume loss.
Fillers come in various formulations to address everything from fine lines to deep-set wrinkles and hollows such as the tear troughs under your eyes. Depending on the product, dermal fillers can provide results lasting up to one to two years because they encourage collagen production that helps you look younger for longer. Since their formulations consist of substances naturally found in the human body, there is little risk of an allergic reaction with dermal fillers. The most common side effects are bruising and swelling around the injection site, which will resolve over the next few days.
Are You a Good Candidate for a Liquid Facelift?
Depending on your degree of aging and your unique aesthetic concerns, Dr. Schmidt might recommend combining neuromodulators like BOTOX® and XEOMIN® with biocompatible fillers for a full-face refresh known as a liquid facelift.
Depending on your goals, a versatile liquid facelift can:
- Minimize fine lines and wrinkles around your forehead, eyes, nose, and mouth
- Create contoured cheeks or fuller, poutier lips
- Fill in areas of volume loss, such as any gaunt or hollow areas
- Make you look more alert, approachable, and well-rested
- Define your chin and jawline
Learn More About Cosmetic Injectables in Denver
As a double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing solely in facial procedures, Dr. Schmidt uses his years of expertise in facial anatomy to recommend the best product or combination of injectables for you, then takes care to strategically inject them in precise amounts to create a natural, never overdone look. If you’d like to know more about which dermal filler is right for you, contact us to schedule your in-person or virtual consultation.
