Hyaluronic acid, which occurs naturally in connective tissue and joints, is used to make commercial fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane, which can be injected via syringe to create fuller lips and to fill smile lines and deep wrinkles around the eyes. A local anesthetic (either an injection or numbing cream) is needed to reduce the pain, though some products are now manufactured with Lidocaine for comfort. The product is essentially added in layers under the skin to give the most natural results. It requires administration by a surgeon or a registered nurse with a deft touch. Results can last six to 12 months—the product is eventually absorbed by the body.
Risks Temporary clumping or lumpiness, which is visible under the skin. Bruising is usually minimal, but some people get bruising that requires extra makeup to hide.
Recovery Redness or bruising at the injection site fades in a few days. There is zero to minimal downtime.
Cost $500 to $850 per syringe
