Hyaluronic Acid
Serving Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, & Palos Verdes, California
Hyaluronic acid is an element of connective tissue, the material of fibers that support structure for body tissues and organs. The main function of hyaluronic acid is to cushion and lubricate. Hyaluronic acid has been called the "key to the fountain of youth" because of the visible effect it has on giving skin a youthful appearance.
Hyaluronic Acid Facts
- We are born with it in our bodies, but it decreases as we get older
- It allows our cells to retain moisture and prevent a dry, aged appearance
- We need it present in our cells to keep our skin smooth and elastic
- Cosmetic companies have used it in moisturizers for many years
How Hyaluronic Acid Is Used Cosmetically
If you look in the mirror and are unhappy with wrinkles around your eyes, mouth or forehead, it's possible your body is producing less of the skin firming elements that once gave you a younger appearance. Or perhaps you would like to have fuller lips to balance out your facial features and frame a beautiful smile. In either case, injectable fillers that contain hyaluronic acid may be able to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles in the skin.
Two primary dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid include:
- Juvederm™ - comes in three formulations to treat various needs
- Restylane™ - the only hyaluronic acid filler approved for skin
The hyaluronic acid in these fillers is biosynthetically created, but is almost identical to that found in our bodies. Because hyaluronic acid is a structural component of the skin that creates volume and shape, it is an ideal ingredient for dermal fillers. It binds to water to easily fill in areas of the skin that are lacking volume, such as lips, wrinkles and smile lines.
The result is less visible wrinkles or naturally fuller looking lips.
Procedure
When you visit the office for an injection appointment, a numbing cream will be used for about ten minutes on the area that is to be injected. If you are having your lips enhanced, you will get a numbing injection on the inside of your lip - similar to what a dentist does to numb before working on your teeth.
Once the area is numb, the doctor will use a very thin needle to do a series of small injections. The area will then be lightly massaged for a one to two minutes. You may also be asked to ice the injection site in intervals of one minute on and one minute off, for the rest of your day.
The entire procedure takes less than 20 minutes after numbing has occurred.
The benefits of hyaluronic acid may last for six months or longer.
To learn more about how hyaluronic acid can help enhance your appearance in the Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, and Palos Verdes, California area, please contact Bray Plastic Surgery today to schedule your initial consultation.
