Dermal fillers are a popular treatment to minimize wrinkles and eliminate the signs of aging. Now, the FDA has approved a new version of a popular filler premixed with lidocaine to take away the sting.

The FDA has approved a new dermal filler that contains enough lidocaine to provide nearly instantaneous numbing for patients getting facial wrinkles and folds filled.

“Before the introduction of Juvederm XC, it often took up to 30 minutes for an anesthetic block to take effect.The product has a similar safety profile as its predecessor, Juvederm, a gel hyaluronic acid dermal filler manufactured by Allergan."

The smooth consistency of the Juvederm gel makes it easier to inject and reportedly provides more natural looking results that last for up to a year. Injectable fillers provide a safe, non-surgical option for women and men who want to smooth facial wrinkles and folds without surgery, such as a brow lift or lower face lift.

The new formulation, Juvederm XC, maintains the same results as its predecessor and also contains a small amount of lidocaine, which numbs the treatment area within seconds, making the cosmetic treatment a more comfortable experience for the patient. The lidocaine is also intended to reduce or eliminate the need for any additional anesthetic.

The results during a double blind test were promising: 93 percent of patients reported less pain when treated with the new formulation of Juvederm compared to those treated with the non-lidocaine formulation.

Juvederm XC is now available nationwide; however, just like other dermal fillers, it should be administered by a trained medical professional specializing in facial plastic surgery such as Dr. Ross Clevens, Melbourne, FL --321.727.3223.

Over time, skin suffers from wear and tear, and wrinkles, spots and growths begin to appear.

The February issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter covers some of these normal changes and possible treatment options.

Harmless growths include:

Age or liver spots -- These flat, brown areas, also called solar lentigos, typically occur on the hands, back and face. Using a topical retinoid -- often in conjunction with bleaching cream and a mild topical steroid -- may gradually fade an age spot.

Skin tags -- These flesh-colored growths protrude from the skin, often on a stalk. They're often found on the neck or in the armpits. A doctor can remove them with surgical scissors, an electrical device or liquid nitrogen.

Cherry angiomas -- These small, smooth, cherry red spots are commonly found on the torso. They range from pinhead size to ¼ inch across. They can be removed with a laser, liquid nitrogen or an electrical device.

Seborrheic keratoses -- These brown, black or pale growths look waxy, as if they were dripped on the skin by a candle. They usually appear on the face, chest, shoulders and back, often in multiples. Their size ranges from ¼ inch to 1 inch across. They can be removed with a simple surgical procedure or with liquid nitrogen.

The cost of removing any of these harmless spots -- considered cosmetic procedures -- may not be covered by insurance.

Not all skin spots are harmless. Skin cancer can look similar to a harmless spot or growth. Any spots that bleed and don't heal should be examined by a physician. Other concerning symptoms are itchiness, pain or a changing outline, color or appearance.

Source
Mayo Clinic

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