| Collagen Stimulating Fillers-
Sculptra / Radiesse |
|
|
As we age, we tend to lose fat
and underlying connective tissue on our face.
This eventually results in hollowing of the
lateral checks and temples and downward and
medial sagging of the facial skin. The result is
jowls at the jaw line and wrinkles at the
junction of the upper lip and medial cheeks, as
well as around the eyes. To treat this, one can
use injections of fat, silicon, or collagen
stimulating fillers.
|
Radiesse® was the
first of these products to be incorporated in
our practice, it consists of calcium
hydroxylapatite crystals suspended in a gel
matrix. The matrix dissolves slowly in the skin
exposing the crystals to collagen, which is then
stimulated to thicken, correcting the defect.
Like Sculptra®, Radiesse® is injected relatively
deeply into the skin, and its skin tightening
effects can last up to one year or more.
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Before |
After |
Before |
After |
|
|
|
 |
Sculptra® was
originally introduced into the United States in
2004, for use in the treatment of HIV facial
atrophy. Approved by the FDA for cosmetic use in
the summer of 2009, this product was introduced
soon afterwards into our practice. It is
generally placed into the skin below the dermis
and depending upon the location, to the
periosteum above the facial bones, to exert its
collagen stimulating and tightening effects.
Injections of this product generally requires
use of multiple syringes which are filled with
measured quantities of reconstituted product.
Sculptra® is a relatively long-lasting product
with effects after total corrections, lasting
over two years. |
|
|
|
Important attributes of both
Radiesse® and Sculptra® include slow onset of
results as collagen is being deposited requiring
visits to be spaced approximately 4 to 6 weeks
apart. The amount of product used depends on the
degree of skin tightening and lifting needed and
varies from patient to patient. Like Restylane®
and Juvederm®, side effects may include
temporary bruising, hyperpigmentation,
tenderness, and swelling. Formation of bumps
(papules) is rare, but has occurred in the past,
and will be discussed at your consultation. |
|
|
|
 |
| |
 |
|
| Dr.
Robert G. Shoss received his dermatology training at
Albany Medical Center Hospital after graduating from
the University of Texas Medical School at San
Antonio. |
|
More... |
|
|
|
| Ari J. Fisher,
MPAS, RPA-C has been with Albany Dermatology
since 2001, and was previously employed at the
Albany Medical Center where he practiced in the
departments of medicine and emergency medicine. |
|
More... |
|
| |
|
|
Jessica A.
Dunton, MPAS, RPA-C, joined Albany Dermatology in June
2010. She is a graduate of the Albany Medical College
Physician Assistant Program. She also holds a BA in
Biology from Colgate University in Hamilton, NY. |
|
More... |
|
 |
|
Esthetician
|
|
| Lindsey Swint
is one of the newest members of our office having
joined us in August 2009. Lindsey is a licensed
Aesthetician who graduated in June 2006 from the
Aesthetic Science Institute. |
|
More... |
| |
|
 |
|