Belotero® is a dermal filler that is injected into the skin to restore lost volume in the face. Made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural carbohydrate that is present in the human body, Belotero smoothes the superficial skin of the face for a more youthful look.
Hyaluronic acid works by providing a framework to the skin by binding collagen and elastin together, then attracting water, for an overall anti-aging effect.
Belotero is a unique hyaluronic acid filler in that it is designed to be injected very superficially and is ideal for very fine wrinkles and lines. Because of the unique molecular structure of the product it is distributed more uniformly in the dermis than other similar dermal fillers and does not cause skin discoloration (Tyndall effect) when injected superficially.
Dr. Velargo and Dr. Hendrick are experienced injectors of Belotero. They will evaluate your facial structure and the areas of lost volume to determine the best areas for injections so that the result looks natural.
Other facial fillers include Radiesse®, Perlane®, Restylane®, Juvederm®, and Juvederm Voluma®. Drs. Velargo and Hendrick may suggest that you use a combination of these injectables, including Botox®, Xeomin®, or Dysport®, in order to achieve your desired look. Non-surgical skin resurfacing procedures can also often help to smooth certain lines and wrinkles. If you have significant signs of aging, a surgical procedure such as a facelift, neck lift, brow lift, or blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) might be recommended.
Belotero is ideal to correct:
Belotero injections usually take less than 30 minutes, and a very fine needle is used to minimize discomfort. Dr. Velargo and Dr. Hendrick are believers in cool compress anesthesia, as well as acupressure techniques to make the injections as comfortable as possible.
If you wish, we will be happy to apply a topical numbing cream before your injections. If you desire the numbing cream, we ask that you arrive approximately 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment so that it can take effect before the procedure. We have a very comfortable and relaxing “Quiet Room” within the clinic for your enjoyment.
After your injections, you can go home or relax in the quiet room for as long as you desire.
The results are visible immediately and will continue to show some improvement over the course of days as the product attracts water.
You can proceed with most of your activities, including returning to work, after you leave our office following Belotero injections, but you may experience some bruising and swelling for a period of days. You can cover any discoloration with makeup, and you can speed resorption of any bruising by using topical Arnica Montana. Cool compresses will help to reduce any swelling.
The effects of Belotero injections last 4-9 months, depending on the site of injection. However, some people have seen the results last longer.
The product stimulates the production of collagen in the skin, so less product may be needed for a similar result in subsequent maintenance injections.
Contact the New Orleans Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery today to find out more about expert Belotero injections.
