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Juvederm is an injectable gel from the makers of Botox that includes hyaluronic acid, a natural complex sugar that improves skin elasticity and smoothes wrinkles. Though a simple procedure with minimal recovery time, Juvederm treatments are still medical procedures that need to be prepared for. This guide will walk you through how to prepare for Juvederm.
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Introduction
- Juvederm is a injectable gel from the makers of Botox that bolsters skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of facial wrinkles. To prepare for a Juvederm treatment, you need to know what a Juvederm treatment consists of, what medications you should avoid prior to treatment, what side effects are possible and what the recovery process entails.
Step 1: Learn What a Treatment Is
- Juvederm is a fairly simple, non-surgical procedure performed in your doctor's office in a matter of minutes. Your health care professional can give you more specific details on the exact treatment procedure he or she performs but these are some general details to help you prepare.
- Anesthesia is not required, however your doctor may elect to use topical or injectable anesthetic to numb the treatment area prior to injecting the Juvederm.
- Your doctor will begin injecting specific areas of your face with Juvederm using a fine, very tiny needle. The injections will be placed in your skin's dermis, the dense inner layer of skin beneath your epidermis.
- Many patients mention feeling mild pinpricks but few report serious pain.
Step 2: Find Out What Medicines to Stop
- Your doctor will likely recommend that you avoid any medications that can prolong bleeding. Examples include aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS) for at least a week before your treatment. This will reduce the risk of bruising and bleeding at the injection site. It is also recommended to stop taking St. John's Wort and Vitamin E. If you are susceptible to keloids or hypertrophic scarring, speak to your regular physician prior to treatment.
Step 3: Know the Possible Side Effects
- Juvederm does have some side effects, most non-serious. The most common include redness, swelling, pain, tenderness and/or bruising at the injection site. There is potential for more serious complications, which include:
- Granulomas, or tiny bumps under your skin near the injection sites
- Discoloration of the injection area
- Necrosis affecting the glabellar region
- Abcess
- Hypersensitivity
Step 4: Be Aware of the Recovery Process
- Juvederm requires little to no downtime, and you can return to your daily routine immediately following the procedure. There are some things you can do to ease the healing process.
- Avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol for 24 hours after your treatment.
- Avoid sunlight, excessive heat or extreme cold for long periods of time during the two weeks following the treatment.
- Try not to touch the areas that were injected.
Conclusion
- While a relatively simple procedure, your experience with Juvederm will be that much more enjoyable if you are prepared. Listen to your doctor's instructions both before and after the treatment. Be ready for your face to look a little worse before it begins to look smoother, younger and healthier.