Belotero Injections in San Jose & Los Gatos
When you’re considering facial rejuvenation — restoring lost volume and filling fine lines and wrinkles — there are many available injectables. One of the newest, debuting in November 2011, is Belotero. Here are questions and answers about this FDA-approved injectable gel.
What is Belotero?
Belotero is a transparent hyaluronic acid gel that is injected into facial tissue to smooth moderate to severe wrinkles and folds, especially around the nose and mouth. Belotero is made up of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance produced by the body that is responsible for providing volume and hydration to the skin.
What are the benefits of Belotero?
Due to aging, the skin gradually loses its elasticity and some of its underlying support, leading to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Belotero replace this hydrating substance in the skin to fill and smooth wrinkles, and add volume to areas of the face that have sunken. Belotero, since it is delivered with very small needles, is easily tolerated by patients of Dr. Rosenthal. Unlike some injectables, Belotero is not pre-mixed with lidocaine, although topical anesthetics can be used if desired.
What can be treated with Belotero?
Belotero is generally used to correct fine lines and wrinkles, but it has also been proven effective in enhancing lip lines, smile lines, crow’s feet, and other facial folds in other areas of the face. Its hyaluronic acid component combines with the skin’s own collagen to reduce finer lines in sensitive areas in the face, such as under the eyes and the lip lines (“smoker’s lines”). Unlike other facial treatments, Belotero does not cause darkening on the skin when the treatment is delivered superficially in such areas. Generally, two sessions initially provide the best results.
How long will the results of Belotero last?
Similar to other dermal fillers, Belotero’s effects usually last for six months. Over time the results gradually diminish as the substance is naturally absorbed by the body.
What side effects can be expected from Belotero treatment?
Side effects with Belotero are minimal — some redness, swelling, and discomfort at the site of injection. Dr. Rosenthal will provide you with specific instructions on how you can mitigate such symptoms.
