Hylaform Plus - Cosmetic Facial Filler

With age comes wisdom…and facial wrinkles! A number of changes in our face take place as we get older. Collagen breaks down, elasticity diminishes, support structures in underlying tissues weaken, moisture lessens, and natural facial fat decreases. These processes, along with the effects of gravity, genetics, sun damage, and lifestyle factors, contribute to wrinkles and sagging skin. Since people are living longer than ever before, the demand for cosmetic procedures of the face is ever increasing. In conjunction with this increasing demand, a number of technological advances in products and procedures have resulted in effective, nonsurgical methods “to turn back the clock.” These procedures, like Hylaform Plus, have short procedure times, fewer risks and complications, brief recovery periods, and lower costs.

 

 

Dermal fillers in general are a popular, nonsurgical approach for reducing the signs of aging by smoothing moderate to severe wrinkles. Filler substances are injected in the mid- to deep dermis to increase volume and plump up the treated area. The popularity of this cosmetic procedure is related not only to the immediate results provided, but also to the short (about 15- 20 minutes) procedure time, minimal side effects, and little to no recovery time.

 

Hylaform Plus is a relatively new, FDA approved dermal filler. As a more concentrated version of its predecessor, Hylaform, Hylaform Plus contains larger particles and is used to treat deeper wrinkles, creases, and folds. It is also used for facial contouring, smoothing scars, and lip enhancement.  

 

Hylaform Plus is a clear, colorless gel with an avian (bird) hyaluronic acid base that is injected deep in the dermis. Hyaluronic acid provides several advantages over some other dermal fillers. Since hyaluronic acid is a substance that occurs naturally in the body (and avian hyaluronic acid is very similar to the human form), allergic reactions are rare. Naturally occurring hyaluronic acid plays an important role in maintaining tissue lubrication and retaining moisture in the skin, but decreases over time. When injected into the dermis, Hylaform^® Plus helps replace the collagen and hyaluronic acid in the facial support tissues that have diminished. It fills in the empty space, moisturizes and lubricates surrounding tissue, and generally imitates the hydrating, lifting effect of hyaluronic acid to smooth wrinkles and produce more hydrated, elastic facial skin. Another advantage of the naturally-based material is that it is biodegradable and easily broken down by the natural enzyme hyaluronidase. Should a patient develop bumps or irregularities after treatment, correction is quick and simple with injection of the enzyme into the desired area.

 

The procedure is performed in the physician’s office and involves only a few simple injections under the surface of the skin. Pain is typically no more than a small sting, although lip enhancement procedures are more involved and may require a dental block. Results are immediate and typically last six to twelve months. Patients may have temporary discomfort, slight swelling, and some discoloration following the injections, but these disappear quickly. The frequency of repeat treatments varies among individuals depending on the severity of the areas treated, desired results, and the time frame for breakdown of the hyaluronic acid.

 

As with all cosmetic surgery procedures, consultation with an experienced, qualified physician is necessary to determine whether Hylaform^® Plus is appropriate for each individual case. The consultation also assures the patient understands the procedure itself, has realistic expectations, and is aware of the risks, benefits, and possible complications associated with the procedure.