Dermal filler is an injectable substance that is used to fill in lines, wrinkles and smooth out scars. There are a lot of products on the market to choose from, so how do you know what is right for you? For fillers like Radiesse, Restylane and Juvederm, the condition of your skin and severity of the problem determine which product will work best. How long you want the results to last is also a significant factor. These three products are similar, but understanding the differences will help you choose the best dermal filler for your face.

Radiesse

This dermal filler is a calcium hydroxylapatatite contained within a hyaluronic acid gel. These elements are naturally found in the body so it is a biocompatible substance that makes it safe to use. Because of its density, it works well for severe wrinkles all over the face and is also used to smooth the appearance of acne scars. It works especially well for deep lines around the mouth and nose. The procedure is performed under a local anesthetic and, depending on the size of the treatment area, it typically takes about 15 minutes to complete. There will be some swelling, but that should dissipate within a day or so. Final results are apparent after a week. This treatment lasts about a year on average, but with occasional touch-ups, it can last up to two years. The average cost for the procedure is $900 a syringe and typical results show an 80% improvement in appearance.

Restylane

This product is also comprised of hyaluronic acid gel and is non-animal based so chances of allergic reactions are rare. Water is attracted to the gel and this creates volume under the skin. This product is used for deep lines and wrinkles under the eyes, around the lips and nose- the lower part of the face. It is also used to add volume to thin lips.

A local anesthetic is used for this lunch-hour procedure. Depending on the area treated, the maximum amount of time treatment should take is 30 minutes. You will see some swelling immediately after, but it goes away in a couple of days. The final results will be evident in a week. If you used this derma filler as a lip plumper, results last about 6 months. For lines and wrinkles, results last about 9 months and you could see as much as an 80% improvement in their appearance. The cost for Restylane averages about $800 a syringe.

Juvederm

Like the other two products, this one is made up of hyaluronic acid gel too. There are three levels available to treat the entire spectrum of moderate to severe wrinkles and can be used all over the face. Also like the other two, this procedure is performed under a local anesthetic and can be done in a minutes.

Juvederm 18 is the level used to treat fine lines. Juvederm 24 is more concentrated and is used for deeper lines and wrinkles. Juvederm 30 is the densest and is used to replace volume in the lips and cheeks and treats severe wrinkles. Swelling goes away in about three days and the end result is obvious in about a week. Results last about 9 months and average cost is $600 per syringe. Of course, it could be a lot less or a lot more depending on the level you choose.

Make sure you have an experienced surgeon perform the procedures. Just because they are done in office and only take a few minutes doesn’t mean there are no risks involved. Having a certified and licensed surgeon will lessen the risk. Also, be sure about the look you want. Too much volume can leave you looking unnatural. Sure it’s temporary, but do you really want to look like Daffy Duck for the next 6 months?