All facial lines are created by muscle contractions and increased by sun damage and smoking. If a facial wrinkle is primarily present when animating the face, Botox ™ can be used to prevent the muscle contracting for 3 to 4 months. Crow's feet, frown lines and forehead wrinkles, are well treated with Botox, but not areas around the mouth and lips.

If a wrinkle or line is already present, injectable filler is a better solution. Collagen injections are easy to accomplish but only last 3 to 4 months. Radiance™ (calcium hydroxylapatite) lasts 3-5 years and is growing in popularity because of its long lasting characteristics. Both can be used to enlarge lips, minimize lines around the mouth and lips, fill wrinkles and grooves in the cheeks, forehead and other facial areas.

Harold J. Kaplan, M.D., FACS
Diplomate, American Board of Facial Plastic Surgeons
Member, South Bay Independent Physicians Medical Group, Inc.