What Are Cosmetic Injectables? Your Complete Guide

If you’ve heard of cosmetic injectables, but are not sure what they are or how they work, then this guide is for you. Cosmetic injectables are a popular non-surgical way to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and restore volume to create a more youthful appearance. This guide will walk you through what these injectables are, how they work, and the various types available on the market. 

What Are Cosmetic Injectables? 

Cosmetic Needles

Cosmetic injectables are substances injected in small amounts directly into the skin to treat deep lines and wrinkles, soften facial muscles, restore volume in hollow areas, add definition to facial contours, and give lips a fuller look. These injections can last anywhere from six months up to two years depending on the type of product used. They can also be combined with other treatments such as laser skin resurfacing or chemical peels for optimal results.  

The most common cosmetic injectable products currently available are hyaluronic acid fillers (Restylane®, Juvederm®), fat injections (Autologen®, Lipostructure®), Calcium Hydroxylapatite fillers (Radiesse®), Poly-L-lactic Acid fillers (Sculptra®) and botulinum toxin type A injections (Botox®, Dysport®). Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the human body that helps keep skin hydrated by binding with water molecules; it also helps your body naturally produce collagen. Botulinum toxin works by relaxing facial muscles and preventing them from contracting which reduces frown lines and wrinkles caused by muscle movement or overuse. Fat injections involve removing fat cells from one part of your body through liposuction and injecting them into another area that needs filling out such as hollow cheeks or areas around the eyes.  Calcium Hydroxylapatite is a biocompatible substance that mimics bone tissue and stimulates natural collagen production while Poly-L-lactic Acid softens lines by stimulating your body’s own collagen production process. PMMA Fillers use polymethyl methacrylate microspheres suspended in a gel matrix to provide structure for deeper lines like Marionette Lines around your mouth or Nasolabial Folds between your nose and mouth. There are also brand name fillers that contain different combinations of ingredients designed to treat specific areas of concern like Juvederm Voluma XC which is designed specifically for restoring volume loss in cheeks due to aging. At La Belle Vie we offer Juvederm and Botox in our services for cosmetic procedures.

The Treatment 

Cosmetic Injection into woman's face

Cosmetic injectable treatments offer many benefits compared to traditional surgeries – minimal pain during the injection process due to local anesthesia applied beforehand; minimal recovery time (about two weeks) post injection; immediate visible results; long lasting effects up 2 years depending on product used; restoration of naturally occurring substances back into the human body aiding natural collagen production; minimally invasive nature combined with impressive results achieved without needing extensive recovery times required for more traditional surgical procedures – making them an attractive option when considering ways refreshen one’s overall appearance safely quickly easily! However always consult a qualified professional, like a board certified plastic surgeon, before starting any kind of medical treatment or procedure to ensure a safe and effective outcome. So make sure to do your research to find the right plastic surgeon for you if you decide to proceed on your journey towards achieving smoother, younger looking skin! 

Common Procedures

Cosmetic Needle

Cosmetic injectables are not only used for the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines. There are several common issues that cosmetic injectables can address, including excessive sweating, lip augmentation, and a double chin. Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, can be an embarrassing condition that affects many individuals. Fortunately, cosmetic injectables can be administered to reduce the amount of sweat produced by blocking the nerves that control perspiration. Lip augmentation is another frequently requested procedure that uses injectables to plump and reshape the lips, creating a fuller and more youthful appearance. When it comes to eliminating a double chin, injectables can be used to break down the fat cells in the submental area, resulting in a more defined jawline. Migraines are also another issue that fillers can help with by using Botox to reduce pressure on the nerves that cause tension headaches. With so many benefits, cosmetic injectables offer a non-invasive and quick solution to various cosmetic concerns.

Side Effects

Cosmetic injectables have become increasingly popular in recent years for those who want a more youthful appearance or to enhance their features. While these treatments can have wonderful results, it’s important to be aware of the possible side effects that come along with them. Common side effects include redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. However, more serious side effects such as infection, an allergic reaction, and nerve damage are possible, albeit rare. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as pregnancy, autoimmune disorders, and bleeding disorders may prevent individuals from being good candidates for cosmetic injectables. Some neurological conditions that may prevent someone from being a candidate for cosmetic injectables include Bell’s palsy, myasthenia gravis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson’s Disease. Additionally, any individual taking medications or supplements that increase bleeding risk such as aspirin and ibuprofen should avoid cosmetic injectables. It is important to consult with a qualified professional before deciding to proceed with any cosmetic injection procedure in order to make sure it is safe for you. Additionally, any kind of nerve damage or weakened muscle tone can make it risky to undergo this type of treatment. It is always important to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon before beginning any medical procedure in order to ensure the best possible outcome and reduce the risk of complications. 

In conclusion, cosmetic injectables offer a safe and effective option for those looking to reduce wrinkles, enhance features, and eliminate other aesthetic issues. While there are certain risks associated with the procedure, these can be minimized with proper preparation and care. Whether you want to look younger or enhance your features, consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon is key in order to see if you’re a potential candidate and to achieve your desired results. With the help of an experienced professional and careful consideration of potential risks, cosmetic injectables can be a great way to refresh your appearance without going through more invasive surgical procedures.   

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Dr. Jeff Church