PERLANE^®

There are number of ways to a smooth and youthful appearance to aging skin.  A popular method is the use of Perlane^®, an injectable cosmetic dermal filler that has been used to soften wrinkles and facial folds of patients across the world.  It is also used as filler for lip augmentation, facial depressions, and facial scarring.

Perlane^® is made from non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) gel.  This means that Perlane^® contains no animal products.  Since hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the skin and other tissue, there is no need for a skin test when using Perlane^® filler.

The hyaluronic acid in Perlane^® supplements the body's natural supply, which becomes depleted with age.  Perlane^® is biodegradable so its effects are not permanent.  The results of a Perlane^® filler treatment tend to last six months to a year.

Unlike BOTOX^® Cosmetic, Perlane^® will not make you numb. Perlane^® can be used in conjunction with BOTOX^® Cosmetic.  BOTOX^® neutralizes the muscles that create wrinkles, while Perlane^® simply reduces the visibility of wrinkles and folds.

The hyaluronic acid in Perlane^® can be used to improve the contour of facial skin and to reduce wrinkles, folds, scars, and other facial skin depressions.  Common uses for Perlane^® filler include:
· Wrinkle correction
· Diminishing worry lines, smile lines, crow's feet, marionette lines at corners of the mouth, and smoker's lines
· Lip enhancement
· Reducing the severity of nasolabial folds
· Chin augmentation
· Filling cheek depressions
· Redefining lip border
· Softening acne scars

Other, less common, uses for Perlane^® filler include:
· Filling hollows under the eyes
· Creating a temporary eyebrow lift
· Correcting facial depressions caused by fat loss
· Softening the appearance of jowls

How is this procedure performed?
Perlane^® is administered by injection using a large syringe to accommodate its granular nature.  The injected Perlane^® plumps and tightens the skin decreasing, in some cases eliminating wrinkles, scars and lines from sagging skin.

What will my first visit be like?
On your first visit, your surgeon will discuss with you the changes to be made in your appearance.  Your skin and facial structure is to be examined; different options will be discussed with you.  He will explain the risks, limitations and the anesthetic to be used.  Ask to be shown before and after photos of other patients who have undergone this procedure.  Ask all the questions you may want to ask on your first visit.

What is to be expected after this procedure?
Most people experience some swelling, pain, bruising, tenderness and redness that normally last less than seven days.  Although rare, red or swollen small bumps may occur.

What type of anesthesia is used?
Usually the type of anesthesia used is local.

Where can this procedure be performed?
This procedure may be done in the office surgical suite and you may go home after the procedure.

How long does it take?
This procedure takes 15 minutes to 1 hour per session depending on the extent to be done.

Are there any side effects?
You may experience temporary stinging, throbbing or even a burning sensation.  Faint redness, swelling, bruising and excess fullness.

Are there any risks?
As with any surgical procedure, infection may set in.  Contour irregularities may also occur.

How long do results last?
How long the aesthetic correction lasts is very individual.  Talk to your surgeon about the benefits of scheduling a follow-up appointment in about six months.

What should patients do prior to treatment?
Perlane^® treatment requires no pre-testing but you should take a few precautions before being treated.  Avoid using aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, St. John’s Wort, or high doses of Vitamin E supplements prior to treatment as these may increase bruising or bleeding at the injection site.  Also, if you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, discuss this with your doctor to minimize recurrence.