Perlane

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Perlane® is the newest product of injectable dermal fillers. Like its predecessor, Restylane®, Perlane® contains hyaluronic acid and is used to smooth wrinkles and augment lips. Depending on the area that needs treatment, Dr. Barber may use Perlane® instead of Restylane®, and possibly a combination of both.

Potential Uses

• Fills facial wrinkles
• Lip augmentation
• Improves crease lines
• Chin augmentation
• Softens acne scars
• Fills hollow areas around the eyes

Perlane® is made by the same manufacturer as Restylane®, the primary difference between the two products is that the hyaluronic acid molecule of Perlane® is larger, and can bond with even more water molecules. The larger size of the Perlane® molecule is what makes it last longer than other fillers. The effects of Perlane® last about 6-12 months, almost twice as long as other similar products.

Because of the larger molecule size and the extra bonding capabilities, Perlane® is frequently used for more troublesome, deep-set wrinkles, leaving Restylane® to take care of the smaller ones. Perlane® is slightly more expensive than other fillers because of the processing required to achieve higher larger particle size.

Perlane® injections can also be used in conjunction with Botox® injections. The filler can increase the fluid volume behind the wrinkles, while Botox® will work to prevent the muscles that cause deep wrinkles from contracting.

Application

Using small needles, Perlane® is injected directly into the subdermal areas of the skin that are to be treated. Once injected, the gel bonds with water molecules in the skin, increasing in volume until the skin tightens, and the wrinkles disappear.

Because Perlane® is a non-animal based product it does not require allergy skin testing. The treatments can be applied in the Pittsburgh clinic right after initial consultation.

Other products like Restylane® also appear to promote growth of new collagen which aids in restoring volume. Collagen is a natural protein produced by the skin to improve skin elasticity. Fibroblast cells in the skin stretch when the filler is injected. This stretching action of the fibroblasts produces the collagen.

Perlane® also appears to decrease the production of collagenase, an enzyme in the body that causes the breakdown of collagen as we age. All these factors make Perlane® an excellent choice in the battle against wrinkles and signs of old age.

When deciding on the proper cosmetic procedure to reduce wrinkles, it is important to find a reputable surgeon who is part of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. James Barber, Pittsburgh plastic surgeon is board certified and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

To learn more about the Perlane®, Restylane® and other injectable fillers, call or email us today to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Barber.