Cosmetic procedures like Botox and dermal fillers, namely Juvéderm, are extremely popular, and not just in North America. In the US, these and other aesthetic medical procedures are performed way more frequently than in Canada. According to statistics compiled by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in 2016, the latest these statistics are readily available, the US is first on the list of countries with the most cosmetic procedures performed in the world – right above Brazil and Japan. Canada isn’t even in the top 24!
The increasing popularity of nonsurgical treatments has also increased the manufacture and administration of knockoffs that contain dangerous ingredients not approved by the FDA and Health Canada. These knockoffs could cause complications and risky side effects that may be immediate apparent, or after three years (which may mean right now if you’ve received your treatment a few years ago).
Knockoffs have infiltrated the Canadian market as well. Buyer beware: always ask to see the unopened product before you undergo treatment — there should be a hologram and serial number on the label. And, get your procedure performed by a reputable clinic and medical practitioner!