Wrinkle Reduction

This is a topic that has literally exploded over the last year. Dr. Treece adheres to a "less is more" philosophy so she does a lot of filling in wrinkles, as opposed to the old too tight facelifts. It is well suited to patients who are not ready for a surgical face lift and for those who are, but have deep lines and wrinkles that just removing skin will not adequately address. There are many forms of wrinkle reducers, so in a most simplified forum:

1. Radiesse-this is calcium hydroxyalatite microsperes or "liquid bone" in a
   carboxymethylcellulose gel carrier, so to speak. In my experience, it lasts the
   longest (2-7 years). It slowly decomposes into biocompatible products (products
   that naturally exist in the body) so it does not require an allergy test prior to use.
   It is done in the office and requires a local anesthetic. Swelling can last up to
   several days and you may bruise as well, especially if you are prone to bruising.
   It can be used in the lines around the mouth, lips, forehead and brow. It is not for
   around the eyes. The costs are $1000.00 for the first tube and $900.00 for each tube afterwards.
   
2. Restylane-is made of non-amimal derived hyaluronic acid. This is a natural
   substance that already exists in the human body but tends to decrease with age. It
   does not require an allergy test and can be done right in the office. It may also
   result in some minor swelling and bruising. It can be used the same places as
   Radiesse and is less expensive, around $500 for the same amount, but lasts for
   around 6 months.
   
3. Fascian- This is made out of preserved fascia (or human collagen) after it is
   donor tested, harvested, and sterilized. It does not cause allergy testing and is
   done in the office. It is difficult to say how long fascian "lasts" because initially it
   is a "filler" but it begins to excite our own collagen and causes it to actually
   multiply. How much it excites your own collagen will cause lasting results to
   vary. It is the least expensive although its results are quite comparable.
   
4. Sculptra-This filler is poly-L-lactic acid, a synthetic and biocompatible comound
   that is mixed the day prior to placing in lines and wrinkles. For this reason,
   payment is requested in advance and is not refundable. It is designed to plump
   out lines and wrinkles and additionally will stimulate your body's collagen to
   reproduce itself, adding to the longevity of the filler. The charge is comparable to
   radiesse.

Which filler is best for your needs is discussed in the complementary consultation.