Juvederm is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler. There are several products in the Juvederm family. They all are used to help people address the facial signs of aging. Each product in the Juvederm line features different bonding and concentrations of hyaluronic acid. The different products are tailored to target specific problems when injected into different areas and depths. Juvederm fillers have a smooth, gel-like consistency.

Juvederm types:

• Juvederm Voluma XC adds volume beneath your skin’s surface to increase the size of your cheeks.
• Juvederm XC and Juvederm Vollure XC address the loss of skin elasticity and fill out wrinkles and lines around the mouth and nose — known as smile lines.
• Juvederm Ultra XC and Juvederm Volbella XC work as nonsurgical lip enhancement treatments.

uvederm works by adding volume to the facial tissue through its active ingredient, hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the human body. It stimulates the production of the connective tissue that plumps the skin (collagen). As you get older, the production of hyaluronic acid and collagen decreases. This increases the appearance of sagging and wrinkling of the facial skin.

During the procedure, your doctor, physician assistant, or nurse typically uses a pen to mark the areas to be treated. Your doctor will then inject Juvederm into the target area. They will also lightly massage the area to ensure even distribution and reduce the chance of swelling. The entire procedure usually takes between 15 and 60 minutes, depending on the area treated.

Juvederm injections contain a small amount of pain-reducing lidocaine. This will help minimize any pain or discomfort you feel during treatment and make it go away quickly.

You can expect some swelling and bruising. Other common side effects include:

• Redness
• Tenderness
• Lumps or bumps
• Minor pain
• Itching

All of these side effects usually subside within two to four weeks.

More serious side effects are typically associated with unprofessional handlings, like injecting Juvederm into a blood vessel unintentionally. Complications can include permanent scarring, vision abnormalities, blindness, or stroke. That’s why it’s very important to choose your doctor wisely. Make sure that they are trained, certified, and licensed to perform the procedure.