Juvéderm Ultra Plus XC

Juvéderm Ultra Plus XC is an FDA-approved dermal filler primarily used to smooth wrinkles and folds around the nose and mouth.

Each injection contains a gel-like material substance of hyaluronic acid, water, and lidocaine, a local anesthetic designed to minimize pain during injections. Hyaluronic acid helps to temporarily increase volume underneath the skin and smooth wrinkles.

The combination of hyaluronic acid and water in Juvéderm Ultra Plus XC forms a gel-like material that increases volume in the tissues and “fills in” wrinkles, helping to create a smoother and younger appearance.

The “XC” in the product name indicates the addition of 0.3 percent lidocaine. The anesthetic helps save time during the procedure because patients won’t need a separate topical pain reliever applied prior to receiving the injections.

Juvéderm Ultra Plus XC is primarily used to treat moderate to severe wrinkles and folds along the nose and mouth.

Patients looking to minimize the appearance of wrinkles under the eyes or increase volume in the cheeks should consider a different type of Juvéderm injection.

Since Juvéderm Ultra Plus XC contains lidocaine, the physician won’t need to apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment area. The procedure will begin with the physician cleansing the patient’s skin of any impurities. Next, he or she will inject the filler into the target area(s).

Patients won’t experience any pain, but might feel slight pressure and tingling during the injection.

Once the injections are completed, patients are free to go home or back to work.

Like other Juvéderm products, patients might see noticeable differences in their skin almost immediately after treatment, with results lasting up to one year. However, most patients will need touch-up injections to maintain results.

In the first 24 hours after the procedure, patients should avoid strenuous exercise, extensive sun and heat exposure, and alcoholic beverages. After treatment, patients may have temporary redness, swelling, and/or itching at the injection site. Applying an ice pack can help minimize swelling.

When used as directed, Juvéderm Ultra Plus XC is considered safe for adults. Though the procedure itself isn’t painful, patients might experience the following temporary side effects:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Pain

These side effects are mild and usually subside within one week.

Adverse or allergic reactions are rare but may require medical attention. Patients should call their doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms after treatment with Juvéderm Ultra Plus XC:

• Allergic reaction
• Blister
• Bleeding at the injection site
• Necrosis at the injection site
• Abscess at the injection site
• Headache
• Changes in vision
• White appearance of the skin
• Signs of a stroke (such as difficulty speaking, numbness, drooping face, severe headache, dizziness, confusion or weakness in the face, arms or legs)

Juvéderm products are not recommended for patients with any known allergies to hyaluronic acid or lidocaine. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are also not good candidates for injections.