Juvederm / Juvederm XC in Orange County
Also serving San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano

Orange county Juvederm / Juvaderm Ultra / Juvederm XC Juvederm is a hyaluronic acid filler used to restore volume to areas that need it. It lifts and adds volume to facial wrinkles and folds, in addition to enhancing lips. It is injected beneath the skin and supplements the body's natural hyaluronic acid, Hyaluronic acid is a natural complex sugar found throughout all living organisms that retains water -- absorbing more than 1,000 times its weight -- and adds volume to the skin's surface. Juvederm is a highly cross linked form of hyalouronic acid. Cross-linking refers to a process in which the individual chains of hyaluronic acid are chemically bound (or "cross-linked") together, transforming the liquid hyaluronic acid into a soft solid, or "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. 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.

See more before and after juvederm photos.

As the skin ages and is exposed to environmental pollutants and ultraviolet rays, the cells lose the ability to produce hyaluronic acid. As a result, the skin begins to lose volume, often resulting in the formation of facial wrinkles and folds, appearance of sunken eyes, and gaunt face. Dermal fillers comprised of cross-linked hyaluronic acid are used by physicians to help temporarily replace lost hyaluronic acid and to restore skin volume and a smooth, natural appearance. The Juvederm molecules are smaller than the molecules in Restylane, therefore Juvederm absorbs less water and results in less swelling and a more natural appearance for lip enhancement. Hyaluronic acid fillers offer longer lasting results than collagen-based fillers. Results can last about three to twelve months. Side effects may include redness, bruising, tenderness, swelling, pain and itching.

• Approved Uses: creases around the mouth
• Off Label Uses: plumping eyebrows, under eye hollows, lip and cheek enhancement, defining cupid's bow, chin and jaw definition, softening appearance of scars and hands
• Made of: gel implant containing hyaluronic acid
• Cost: $500 (.8 cc)
• Length: lasts 9-12 months
• Side Effects: redness, bruising, tenderness, swelling, pain, itching