Restylane

FDA-approved Restylane is a dermal filler treatment used to restore volume and fullness to the face. It corrects moderate to severe wrinkles and folds, most commonly, the nasolabial folds which run vertically from the nose to the mouth. It is also used to restore fullness to the cheeks and lips. By using the non-animal based hyaluronic acid in Restylane, there is no risk of an allergic reaction.

About the procedure: Restylane is injected into the skin with an ultrafine needle to add volume to the face where needed. The in-office procedure is simple and the results are instantaneous. To optimize your comfort during the short procedure, your medical provider may anesthetize the treatment area with a numbing cream. Results will last up to six months.

FAQs:

What is Restylane made of?

Restylane is a dermal filler made of non-animal-based hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that already exists in the human body and is used to provide volume and fullness to the skin. The hyaluronic acid in Restylane is a crystal-clear gel called NASHA, Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid. NASHA is a biodegradable and fully biocompatible with human hylauronic acid.

Is Restylane safe?

Yes, Restylane has been used by dermatologists and plastic surgeons since 1996 worldwide. Restylane is fully biocompatible and allergy testing is not required. Restylane contains trace amounts of gram-positive bacterial proteins and should not be used by patients with a history of allergies to such material.

Can Restylane be used anywhere on the face?

Restylane has been used in more than 1.5 million treatments in over 60 countries to correct a variety of facial wrinkles. In the U.S. , the FDA has approved Restylane for wrinkles and folds like the ones from the nose to the corners of the mouth. It is also commonly used to add volume to the lips and cheek areas.

What should patients do prior to treatment?

Restylane requires no pretesting, but you should take a few precautions before being treated. Avoid using aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, St. John's Wort, or high doses of Vitamin E supplements prior to treatment, because these may increase bruising or bleeding at the injection site. If you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, it's important to discuss this with your medical provider. They may consider prescribing an anti-viral medication to minimize recurrence.

Do the injections hurt?

For your comfort during the short procedure, your medical provider may anesthetize the treatment area. Thirty minutes later, Restylane is injected directly into the skin in tiny amounts by an ultrafine needle, resulting in minimal discomfort.

Are there any side effects?

After the treatment, some common injection-related irritation may occur, such as swelling, redness, pain, itching, discoloration and tenderness to the injection site. These side effects typically resolve within a few hours or a few days depending on the patient's skin type.

What can I expect following treatment?

The procedure is simple and results are seen immediately. Immediately after your treatment, you might have some redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site(s). If this occurs, it may last 1 – 7 days. Sunbathing and cold outdoor activities should be avoided until any redness or swelling disappears. You will see optimal results in 3-7 days after treatment when swelling and/or bruising subsides. Mineral-based makeup can be applied immediately following treatment.

How is Restylane different from Botox Cosmetic?

Restylane is a natural, cosmetic dermal filler used to contour the face. In contrast, Botox Cosmetic is used to relax the underlying muscles to soften frown lines and wrinkles. These treatments compliment each other and many patients have been very pleased after receiving Botox and Restylane simultaneously.

How is Restylane different from bovine collagen?

Bovine collagen is derived from animals (cows) and requires an allergy test. Restylane can be administered immediately—no waiting is required.

How long does Restylane last?

Studies have shown that Restylane effects generally last for about six months. Restylane's stabilization technology helps maintain the cosmetic effect until the injected material is nearly gone.

How often should I have Restylane treatement done?

Results will last up to 6 months, so treatments are typically scheduled twice a year. Having a touch-up treatment before the product has fully dissipated may enhance the lasting effect.