Get to the Point – The Differences Between Cosmetic Injections

Collagen, BOTOX Cosmetic, Juvéderm, Radiesse, Restylane, and Sculptra are just a few of the injectable cosmetic treatments available today. Most of these are considered dermal fillers, but what is the difference between all of them? Below is a little background on some of the leading injectable treatments.

BOTOX Cosmetic

Unlike dermal fillers that are used to "fill in" wrinkles, BOTOX Cosmetic relaxes the muscles that tend to form wrinkles when they contract. Typically, BOTOX treatments last three to six months.

Collagen

Collagen is an injectable filler that has been used as a wrinkle treatment since the mid-1970s. Collagen is a natural protein found in humans; however, the type of collagen that is most often used in wrinkle treatments is derived from cows. Because of this, there is a possibility of an allergic reaction to the filler and a skin test should be completed before treatment.

Fat Transfer

Unlike collagen and other dermal fillers, fat transfer does not have a risk of allergic reaction. This is because the fat that is injected is removed from another part of the patient's body through liposuction. In most cases, the majority of the fat is reabsorbed by the body after a few months; however, up to a third of the fat tends to remain.

Juvéderm

Juvéderm is a dermal filler made of a laboratory-created form of hyaluronic acid (a substance that naturally occurs in the body). Because it is not taken from an animal, an allergy test is not required. Juvéderm also has the potential to last longer than other wrinkle treatments, including fat transfer.

Radiesse

 Formerly called Radiance, Radiesse is a wrinkle reducer that utilizes microspheres (primarily comprised of calcium and phosphate ions) to build a semi-permanent structure under the skin. As tissue clings to the microspheres in Radiesse, wrinkles are filled in from the treatment.

Restylane

Restylane is typically used for both wrinkle reduction and facial contouring. This dermal filler is also made from hyaluronic acid and its effects tend to last for six months.

Sculptra

Sculptra has become known as a "liquid facelift" treatment because the injectable treatment stimulates the formation of natural collagen. Because of its ability to increase facial volume, Sculptra is often used to treat facial lipoatrophy, the loss of facial fat that often affects HIV patients, although it can also affect patients with other medical problems.

Perlane

Perlane, also a hyaluronic acid-based injectable filler, is used to not only reduce fine lines and wrinkles, but also as a lip enhancement, creating fuller lips.

Cosmoderm / Cosmoplast

Cosmoderm and Cosmoplast are the first human collagen skin fillers approved by the FDA. Both fillers provide patients the benefits of collagen without the risk of allergic reaction. The main difference is that Cosmoderm treats finer facial wrinkles and Cosmoplast treats deeper wrinkles and facial creases. An addition benefit to both fillers is that they contain a small amount of an anesthetic, minimizing the pain of the procedure.

The type of injectable treatment that is right for you will depend on what results you are seeking and your sensitivity to certain substances. The best way to decide is to talk to a reputable dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. These medical professionals will review your medical history and discuss your desired results to help you find the injectable that is right for you.