Is Perlane or Juvederm better for nasolabial folds? How long does each product last?

Hi Demason,
Perlane and Juviderm are both hyaluronic acid products that last for about 6 to 9 months in most patients’ nasolabial folds. Recent studies have shown that hyaluronic acid stimulates natural collagen production so that even when they wear off there is still improvement over the original fold. Other good fillers for the NLF are Radiesse, Evolence, Elevess, and likely many more to be released in the near future.
I would be very careful of "permanent" fillers as they have been associated with severe complications often times 2 to 4 years after the injections. Granulomas (scar tissue) that are extremely difficult to remove have resulted from the "permanent" fillers. Although it may seem more economical at the time, you'd be wise to avoid the cost of the multiple corrective surgeries, not to mention the facial deformities that may result from these fillers. Be well.
Dr. P

I recommend fillers to soften the nasolabial folds themselves and also lift around the mouth and cheeks to build underlying anatomical support. In our practice we combine Sculptra with other fillers "layered" on top and lasers, skin tightening treatments such as Thermage, Fractora, and Renuvion (J Plasma), thread lifting, and peels to get the most conservative, natural look. I suggest seeing a facial sculpting expert for a formal consultation. Best, Dr. Emer

I prefer Juvederm for the nasolabial folds. In most cases, the cheaper Juvederm Ultra is good enough. But with certain people with heavier smile lines, I will use the Ultra PlusThe reason why I prefer Juvederm to Perlane in this area is that I have found that it attracts more water (hydrophilic) and I need to use less product. Therefore, it can be more cost effective for my patients.In my experience, they both last 9-12 months but it is a slow degradation so lots of people come in at 6 months for a touch up.... this keeps you at 100% fill all year round.  If, for example, you needed 2 syringes the first time, 6 months later, you may only need 1... but helps you look your best without waiting for a full year to treat again. XO

For the most part, you can't go wrong with either filler.  Perlane, in my mind, is the better filler if you need a cheek or midfacelift or to use with a facelift.  Juvederm Ultra Plus, however, also does a great job if you're primarily going after nasolabial folds or lip augmentation.  Juvederm Ultra Plus can last up to a year and Perlane up to 18 months but both require a touch up at 4 months. 

Depending on whom you see you'll get different information, however, they both are very similar in duration and can last anywhere from 6 months to over a year.

Perlane is designed for deeper planes than Restylane or Juvederm but if it is injected too deep, it won't stay around to support the skin. You may need more filler and you can try Juvederm or Restylane done more superficially.