Two major signs of aging are loss of volume and the occurrence (and deepening) of lines and wrinkles on most parts of the face, including around the mouth and lips. Loss of collagen and elastin in skin and loss of bone along the jawline contribute to saggy skin, jowls and loss of jawline definition. Additionally, as we age, our gums recede, leading to a “sunken in” look around our mouths, not to mention the creation of laugh lines and smoker lines.

Those concerned with these distressing telltale signs of aging (mostly women) usually think either surgery or filler injections to reverse the clock. But not so fast. Though injections of fillers like Restylane, Juvederm, BellaFill, Voluma and others can provide an instant smoothing of lines, they don’t come without cost or complications.

Reason #1: Cost

With each syringe (usually of 1cc) costing anywhere from $500 to $1200, depending on which filler you use, filler usage gets expensive, and quickly. Most fillers require repeated injections—an average of twice a year—to maintain smoothing results. And most women need at least two or three syringes each time. Do the math and this equals many thousands of dollars a year.

Reason #2: Complications

A recent WebMD.com article reported that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned, “Soft tissue fillers used in cosmetic procedures can accidentally be injected into blood vessels in the face and cause serious harm.” The FDA has told makers of facial fillers to update their labeling to include additional warnings about the risk of accidental injection into blood vessels.

Though not as serious, aesthetic complications such as temporary discoloration and nodules (small bumps under injection sites) can occur. Injectors can also over-correct, leading to unpleasing, puffy results.

Using good skin care habits and noninvasive beauty devices like AngelLift can give you safe and noticeable results that last. For more information, check out the AngelLift Dermastrips FAQs.