The last two years have been rough for collagen-based dermal fillers—and it shows in the announcements by two leading manufacturers, Allergan and Johnson & Johnson, that they will no longer produce their respective collagen products (the human-derived CosmoDerm and CosmoPlast, the bovine Zyderm and Zyplast for Allergan; the porcine Evolence for Johnson & Johnson). For more than two decades, collagen has been the filler of choice for many dermatologists. Considering donor tissue origins, it’s natural that questions could arise. Plus, collagen-based fillers require skin allergy testing and are relatively short-lived.

As in many markets, money drives the evolution of new products, and facial fillers are no exception. The popularity of non-animal hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers (known as replacement fillers because they replace lost volume) and PLLA and PMMA fillers (known as stimulatory fillers because they stimulate collagen and fibroblast production) has been strong in the recent past. Juvéderm, Perlane, Restylane, Radiesse, and Sculptra currently dominate the US market. Dermatologists report HA, PLLA and PMMA fillers as bring more versatile, longer-lasting, bulkier, and better for deep-volume filling than collagen.

But what about fine and thin line use, such as for foreheads or smokers lines around the mouth? Collagen was usually considered better in those instances. But Restylane Fine Lines is one HA product that makers hope to cover this application.

What will the world of fillers look like in the future? Who can say? But certainly change is afoot. Although fillers that indirectly stimulate fibroblast production are holding sway, direct injection of fibroblasts with Human Dermal Fibroblasts (HDFs) may be a trend. UK dermatologists are currently testing Valveta, a filler derived from the foreskins of male babies that is reputed to repopulate skin with healthy young cells and be long-lasting, if not permanent.

Through November 1 of 2009, we’re offering our patients a special deal on injectable treatments that will help fund the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Contribute $25 to $100 and receive double discount on Botox, Dysport, or soft tissue fillers.   For example, write a check to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) for $25.00 and receive $50 off Botox, Dysport, or Soft Tissue Fillers of your Choice.  Write a check for $100 and receive $200 off Botox, Dysport or Soft Tissue Fillers (Perlane, Sculptra, Juvederm, Radiesse)

Contact our office for more information on this great cause and this special offer!

The recent FDA approval of Sculptra for cosmetic use has spawned a renewed interest of the drug in the cosmetic surgery industry and in the media. The Today Show recently featured Sculptra injectable wrinkle filler on a segment of “Today’s Health.” The first half of the segment features a brief treatment demonstration and some patient testimonials, and the second features Dr. Roshini Raj of the NYU school of medicine explaining the details of Sculptra treatment. She discusses the advantages and disadvantages of Sculptra and of course, makes a comparison to Botox.

Just recently, Dr. Jeannette Graf appeared on the CBS Early show to demonstrate treatment with Sculptra. This video features a few before and after photos, a live demonstration, and a professional explanation of the benefits of this highly effective wrinkle filler.

To learn more about Sculptura, contact the office of Dr. Mandell-Brown.

The new FDA clearance specifies the following cosmetic purposes:

• Treatment of mild-severe nasolabial folds
• Treating Wrinkles and contour irregularities

Regulators based their evaluation of Sculptra on a study of 233 patients that had received treatment with the filler for their nasolabial folds.  According to the official press release, the aesthetic results of Sculptra “were maintained up to 25 months after the last treatment session.”  No seriously adverse reactions to Sculptra occurred during the study.

Fillers can be injected into facial folds, lines, and wrinkles or fill-in areas that have lost volume, such as thin lips and those deep furrows between your brows. Having any of these areas injected can take years off the face. It may even allow you to postpone surgery.

Patients usually ask: “Which one should I choose?”

Below is a list and brief description of 5 popular dermal fillers:

• Restylane – a hyaluronic acid based filler touted as “the world’s best-selling dermal filler.” It is used for correcting moderate facial wrinkles and folds.
• Perlane – very similar to Restylane, it is designed primarily for treating deeper and more severe wrinkles and folds.
• Radiesse – this thick compound is made with the same materials as our bones and teeth and reportedly stimulates collagen production.
• Prevelle Silk – this hyaluronic acid gel filler is commonly used for lip augmentation treatments.
• Juvederm – Like Perlane, this popular filler is designed for treating deeper wrinkles and restoring volume to the face. It’s been called the “liquid facelift” treatment.
• Sculptra – a poly-L-lactic acid filler that was FDA approved to treat facial lipoatrophy – the loss of facial tissue. Sculptra is great for filling in hollowness in the cheeks and other imperfections like nasolabial folds.

If you’re considering treatment with any of these products, consult with a qualified surgeon that you trust. For help choosing the right wrinkle filler, or for more information on the risks and benefits, contact the Ohio office of Dr. Mandell-Brown.