Cosmetic Injectables: The Answers to Your Most Pressing Questions About Treatment

Cosmetic injectables have become a cornerstone of modern aesthetic practice, offering a non-surgical approach to facial rejuvenation and contouring. The allure of these non-invasive treatments is simple: Cosmetic injectables can take years off your appearance, enhance your facial features, and improve your skin complexion with minimal downtime. For these reasons, celebrities and other camera-facing professionals are now opting for combination injectable treatments in lieu of old-fashioned facelifts and other cosmetic surgeries. If you have questions about these treatments and whether or not they might be a good idea for your aesthetic goals, follow along with this guide that will address all your pressing concerns about cosmetic injectables:

The Science of Rejuvenation - Benefits of Different Injectables

Cosmetic injection treatments aren’t a one-size-fits-all program. Different substances are targeted for different functions and areas of the body, each created to address specific aesthetic concerns. Here are the three different types of injectables offered at the Elite Medical Spa of Parrish:

Botulinum Toxin

Products including Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are made with what’s called botulinum toxin. This neurotoxin functions by inhibiting the process of neuromuscular transmission, temporarily relaxing targeted muscles. In layman’s terms, the botulism family of injectables temporarily paralyzes certain muscles in the face to smooth away wrinkles. Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are ideal for reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, especially lines on the forehead, crow's feet, and glabellar lines.

Dermal Fillers

Instead of paralyzing facial muscles for a rejuvenated look, dermal fillers work by restoring volume loss and helping to contour facial features. Popular dermal fillers include hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and poly-L-lactic acid). Your med spa professional will select the appropriate dermal filler to address specific issues. For example, a hyaluronic acid filler injectable will attract and retain water, providing hydration and plumping effects. For structural support, calcium hydroxylapatite is commonly used to stimulate collagen production for longer-lasting effects.

Collagen Biostimulators

These injectable cosmetic treatments, like poly-L-lactic acid, trigger a process called neocollagenesis, promoting the body's natural collagen production for gradual and long-lasting results. The results from collagen biostimulators are distinctly natural, appear over time, and offer significantly longer-lasting effects compared to botulism toxins and even dermal fillers.

Who Are Good Candidates for Cosmetic Injectables?

Cosmetic injectables are scientifically proven to be safe when performed by trained, licensed professionals. So, who can get these treatments, and who aren’t the best candidates? Ideal candidates for cosmetic injectables typically exhibit mild to moderate facial aging, volume loss, or contour irregularities. People who may not be considered for treatments include people with active skin infections, those with certain autoimmune diseases, and pregnant mothers. You’ll need a comprehensive consultation to assess your individual needs and medical history before you can be considered for cosmetic injectables.

What Is Each Type of Injectable Best For?

Your dermatologist or licensed aesthetician will be able to determine which injectable or combination of injectables is best for your goals. That said, here’s what each injectable is best at treating: Botulinum Toxin - Best for dynamic wrinkles in the forehead, periorbital region, and glabellar area; it can also be used for jawline slimming and hyperhidrosis. Dermal Fillers - Best for lip augmentation, cheek volumization, nasolabial fold reduction, under-eye hollow correction, and jawline and chin contouring. Collagen Biostimulators - Best for overall skin rejuvenation with gradual, natural results and correction of deep volume loss.

What’s the Procedure Like?

First is the professional consultation that includes a thorough facial assessment and discussion of your specific aesthetic goals. Pre-treatment recommendations include avoiding alcohol and blood thinners. Other than that, you don’t need to do anything special to prepare for cosmetic injection treatment. The process itself requires a quick, in-and-out procedure, where a licensed practitioner will deliver precise administration of injectables like Botox, Juvederm, etc. using fine-gauge needles. Numbing options are also available for patients to minimize discomfort from the pricking sensation.

What Are the Common Side Effects of Cosmetic Injectables?

Common side effects include transient bruising, swelling, and erythema. Rare but serious risks include allergic reactions, vascular occlusion, and asymmetry. Remember that selecting a skilled provider, like a dermatologist or licensed medical spa practitioner, with extensive anatomical knowledge and aseptic technique significantly reduces these risks.

How Long Do the Results Last? What Kind of Maintenance Is Required?

Botulinum toxin effects typically last three to four months but can last a bit longer with the first couple of treatments. Dermal filler results from popular products like Juvederm are longer, ranging from six months to two years, depending on the product and individual factors. Remember that different factors will influence the duration of results from cosmetic injectables, including metabolism, lifestyle (smoking, diet, exercise), and filler type. To maintain a youthful visage from injectables, maintenance treatments are recommended at certain intervals depending on the type of filler you use and your lifestyle.

How Much Do Cosmetic Injectables Cost?

Cosmetic injectable costs vary based on treatment type, provider experience, location of the treatment area, and the product used. Emphasizing quality and expertise over price is crucial for achieving safe and effective results, as botched injections from sketchy providers can be traumatizing. In general, costs range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the injectable(s) used, frequency of treatments, etc.

Provider Selection: Due Diligence

Credentials, experience, and before-and-after photos are the three biggest things to consider when selecting an injector. Be on the lookout for red flags, including unlicensed providers and unrealistic promises. When in doubt, client reviews can usually provide valuable insights into provider competence and what you can expect from the experience.

Are Cosmetic Injectables Right for You?

Cosmetic injectables are a revolutionary and scientifically sound approach to facial rejuvenation and contouring. Unlike traditional plastic surgery, you do not have to go under anesthesia, and the downtime is minimal, with most patients proceeding with their daily activities after the procedure. Unless you have active skin infections, have certain autoimmune diseases, or are pregnant, cosmetic injectable treatments are both safe and effective for anti-aging and other aesthetic goals. Want to find out more about cosmetic injectables near you? Get in touch with us at Elite Medical Spa of Parrish to schedule your consultation.