Liquid Face Lift Association

In the 1930s, researchers discovered a natural substance in the body that they named hyaluronic acid. They found that it plays a key role in numerous areas of the body including the maintenance of skin volume and hydration, eye volume and shape, as well as joint lubrication and cushioning.

In the decades since, numerous therapeutic and aesthetic uses have been developed for hyaluronic acids. In 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler for the correction of facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds (the folds running from the sides of the bottom of the nose to the outer corners of the mouth).

Hyaluronic acid retains water -- absorbing more than 1,000 times its weight -- and adds volume to the skin’s surface. In addition, hyaluronic acid binds with collagen and elastin and transports essential nutrients to these fibers. The triple combination of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid provides structure, elasticity and volume to the skin and contributes to its overall appearance. The hyaluronic acid in Juvederm^tm is called non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) because it is not derived from animal sources.

Juvederm^tm Ultra

Juvederm^tm Ultra (also called Juvederm^tm) is a next-generation, cross-linked hyaluronic acid dermal filler approved by the FDA in June 2006 for treatment of nasolabial folds. Juvederm^tm Ultra (also known as Juvederm^tm) adds volume to the face and smoothes moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. With advanced injection techniques, Juvederm^tm can also be used to lift and contour facial features.

Cross-linking refers to a process in which the individual chains of hyaluronic acid are bound or ‘cross-linked’ together, transforming the liquid hyaluronic acid into a soft gel. The firmness of the gel depends on the degree of cross-linking of the individual hyaluronic acid chains. The body metabolizes cross-linked hyaluronic acid more slowly, resulting in a longer duration of effect.

As an advanced, cross-linked hyaluronic acid, the results of a Juvederm^tm treatment will typically last up to a year or more. Results will vary depending upon injector technique, the facial area in which it is applied, and upon the individual’s muscle movement, skin and health characteristics. For example, in areas of the face where there is less exaggerated muscle movement, Juvederm^tm will often last longer. Regular BOTOX^® treatments in conjunction with Juvederm^tm may help extend the duration of Juvederm^tm.

Juvederm^tm Ultra Plus

Juvederm^tm Ultra Plus (also known as Juvederm^tm Plus) is even more cross-linked than Juvederm^tm Ultra. Juvederm^tm Ultra Plus is used by physicians to treat deeper wrinkles and folds. Physicians also use Juvederm^tm Ultra Plus in liquid face lift procedures where more bulking or more defined sculpting is desirable. It provides more volume than Juvederm^tm Ultra and some other dermal fillers.

The most common side effects of Juvederm^tm Ultra and Juvederm^tm Ultra Plus include temporary redness, swelling, bumps and bruising. Consult your physician for complete details and potential side effects.

Juvéderm^tm is a trademark of Allergan, Inc. BOTOX^® is a registered trademark of Allergan, Inc.