Feb
Experience! There are differences between fillers that make one a better choice over another depending on the circumstances. Seeking out a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who also does a lot of injecting is imperative for optimal outcomes. I use almost all the currently FDA approved fillers in my practice. A long time favorite is Restylane. Restylane was the first hyaluronic acid filler to be FDA approved for use in the US in 2003. Restylane is very safe, effective and versatile. It can be injected into the lips, under the cheeks, into the temple and eyebrow, and of course, the nasolabial fold. It is a bit stiffer than Juvederm which can be an advantage in some areas. I love to use it to line the lips and define the cupid’s bow. I find that it swells a little less than Juvederm when injected under the eyes. It flows well through a longer needle so you can do fewer sticks. Finally the newer Restylane L version is virtually painless because of the addition of lidocaine, an anesthetic.
As a general rule, Botox is used first in the upper one third of the face (the crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines) and filler complements the neuromodulating effect of the Botox. In the lower two thirds of the face, volumizing with filler is the primary, non-surgical anti-aging tool. Botox can be used to complement the effect of the filler. The lines you describe are called the marionette lines or folds (depending on the severity). When they are severe, it looks like you are always sad or frowning. Perlane is a great filler in this area. It is by no means, however, the only option. Perlane is a large particle hyaluronic acid filler, related to Restylane. It also comes as Perlane L, which has added lidocaine to reduce the discomfort of injections. Botox is used adjunctively here. We inject the mentalis muscle and the depressor angularis oris (the DAO) in conjunction with the filler to increase the duration of the correction. As always, be sure you go to an experienced board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon for optimal results.
Our mission at the Lupo Center is to provide patients with innovative, effective, and ethical care to make each person look and feel their personal best. To fulfill our goal, we provide state-of-the-art medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatments to all patients.
Board-certified dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology Mary P. Lupo, MD, has been a leader in the field of non-surgical rejuvenation since 1983. She travels internationally to teach her innovative techniques, and her reputation brings in patients from around the country. She started the first formal residency training program for injectables and peels in 1983 at Tulane Medical School and served as past president of the Women’s Dermatologic Society, adjunct professor of dermatology at Tulane, and a founder of Cosmetic Boot Camp. Dr. Lupo holds membership in many prestigious dermatology associations, participates in clinical trials for the approval of new drugs and devices, and acts as an advisor for numerous aesthetic-minded companies.
Dr. Lupo was recently recognized as a trailblazer for women in dermatology and for her dedication to educating dermatology residents and fellows.
She has also received the following awards:
Dr. Lupo has authored over 90 published articles and book chapters and has spoken on various dermatological topics at nearly 480 national and international meetings and seminars.
