Q: While the optimists refer to wrinkles and creases in their faces as “the marks of a good life,” I want them gone. What causes my wrinkles and is there a way to make them disappear?

A: Over time, sun and other environmental factors cause skin to break down. The skin loses its volume and shape and unwanted wrinkles and fine lines appear. With today’s technology,  Jeffrey Raval, Md, FACS, a leading Denver facial plastic surgeon, one of only a handful in the state who is triple board certified, uses the latest technology and FDA-approved injectible fillers to reverse the signs of aging and eliminate unwelcome wrinkles. A facial filler like Juvéderm can help smooth wrinkles by adding volume and structure to the sunken areas of skin.

Q: I am constantly bombarded with different cosmetic creams and fillers. What is Juvéderm and how is it different from all of the others?

A: The main component of Juvéderm is hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural sugar complex that is already present in all living cells. It is one of the main counterparts of the dermis connective tissue matrix as well as with collagen and elastin. Hyaluronic acid is similar to a sponge; it attracts and absorbs water increasing the skin’s volume and density. Because the acid absorbs water, it promotes duration for up to 6 months or longer setting Juvéderm apart from other dermal fillers.

Q: I have very sensitive skin and have experienced reactions to topological creams previously.  Can I still receive Juvéderm injections?

A: In a word, yes! The main component of Juvéderm, hyaluronic acid is a sugar compound naturally found in the body. Since it is already present, the chances of an allergic reaction are eliminated.

Q: I want to get rid of the wrinkles around my mouth and nose but I am squeamish when it comes to needles. Is the procedure painful?

A: Because of its smooth consistency, Juvéderm gel is injected easily and smoothly under the skin’s surface. In some cases, a mild numbing cream may be applied to the area beforehand.

Q: As an African American woman, not all procedures work for my skin. Can I be treated with Juvéderm without adverse side effects?

A: As the first FDA-approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler that is proven safe for use in different skin tones, Juvéderm is extremely safe for all skin tones and colors. While mild side effects such as redness, firmness, swelling, bruising and itching are common they occur in all skin tones.

Q. I have a bump in my nose that makes me extremely self-conscious of anything that highlights my facial profile. The idea of someone going at my nose with a chisel is unappealing. I guess I am too squeamish to undergo traditional rhinoplasty. Are there any other less invasive options for me?

A. Yes, there are options for correcting your nose vs. rhinoplasty. Referred to as the “15-minute nose job” using the dermal filler, Juvéderm™, Dr. Raval is able to smooth out any imperfections without surgery. Most commonly used to fill facial wrinkles, Juvéderm™ has now been approved to correct nose imperfections.

Q. I have heard Juvéderm™ can be injected into certain places of the nose to disguise odd shapes and bumps. Would the filler move around in my nose over time and the shape become distorted? How exactly does this procedure work?

A. During the procedure, Dr. Raval carefully injects Juvéderm™ into certain areas of the nose to give it a symmetrical shape. The filler is used to fill in depressions and give the nose a smoother, even appearance. To correct a bump on the nose, Juvéderm is injected on either side of the bump to even out the surface. If the tip of the nose is annoyingly fat, filler is added to the tip to create a narrower look. Once the filler is injected into the nose, Dr. Raval manipulates it until the desired result is attained.

Q. I am allergic to collagen. Will I experience an adverse reaction from Juvéderm?

A. Collagen is made from a bovine derivative while Juvéderm is made from hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule that is naturally occurring in the human body. It helps to add volume and hydration to the human system. Unlike collagen, there is no chance of an allergic reaction to Juvéderm.

Q.How much of a price difference is there between Juvéderm and traditional rhinoplasty? How long does it last?

A. Juvéderm injections are much cheaper than a traditional rhinoplasty. Injections cost about $500 for one syringe, several thousands of dollars cheaper than rhinoplasty. The procedure is extremely quick and easy, lasting only 15 minutes at the longest and results are immediate. Following the procedure, the nose will be slightly sore and red at the injection site but all the side effects will be gone within a week. The results of the procedure last over a year and when the effects begin to dissipate, they can be easily redone.