Restylane

Facial wrinkles and creases begin to appear as the underlying collagen and elastin fibers begin to break down and wear out. While this breakdown is part of the natural aging process, it can also result from excessive squinting, frowning and smiling. Until recently, the most frequently used material for filling facial wrinkles and frown lines was injectable collagen. However, collagen injections aren’t for everyone. A very small percentage of patients are allergic to bovine collagen.

Now a natural product can help you meet your goals without fear of an allergic reaction. This natural, synthesized and fully degradable hyaluronic acid called Restylane® has been used in Europe for years.

How does Restylane work?

Restylane contains hyaluronic acid in the form of a crystal-clear gel. It is injected into the skin to lift the lip, wrinkle or fold. Once in your skin, it creates volume, resulting in a healthy and vital appearance. When injected into the lip it can restore a more natural and/or sensuous look. In contrast to other biodegradable implants, Restylane is not extracted from animals. This means no risk of allergic reaction. Therefore, it is perfectly safe to use instantly without pre-testing.

What areas respond the best to treatment?

Fine lines on the upper and lower lip that are not severe enough to require laser resurfacing smooth and fill nicely with Restylane. Deeper wrinkles and folds in the cheek areas (nasolabial, melolabial and lines at the corners of the mouth) also respond well using Restylane. Lip enhancement has up to twice the longevity of standard collagen implant treatments.

Is Restylane safe?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body and therefore it also dissolves naturally with time and is integrated into your body’s tissues. The synthetic, biodegradable hyaluronic acid known as Restylane has been used in Europe and Canada for many years and is now approved in the United States. Your doctor will tailor your Restylane treatments according to the depth of the wrinkles and desired lip enhancement.

What are the treatments like?

The treatment is performed by injecting Restylane under your skin. Since no pre-test is needed, your procedure can usually be done in less than one hour. Many patients like the added comfort provided with an anesthetic cream, while others prefer an anesthetic block. This makes the treatment relatively painless.

How long does it last?

Depending on the area treated, most folds and wrinkles require one treatment. The repeat maintenance treatment is not usually required for approximately 6 months or longer. By experience these products last almost twice as long as regular collagen injections. The great thing about Restylane is that you can replenish your natural beauty whenever you feel the need. Unlike permanent implants, Restylane always leaves you a choice when the effect of the treatment has worn off. A touch-up can be performed any time you like after the previous treatment.

How will I look after my treatment?

Following your injections, normal activities can be resumed immediately. Discomfort is minimal. The treatment site may have a little swelling, which may last a few hours. There may be some slight bruising which can be covered with make-up. Depending on the area treated, correction can last up to six months or longer. If the lips are treated, initial swelling and tenderness may occur within the first several days, but subsides after two or three days.

If you have been wondering how to get rid of your wrinkles but aren’t ready for surgery, Restylane may be the answer.

This information is intended to supplement, not replace, a consultation with a board certified physician. To find out if you could be a candidate for one of these procedures or to learn more information about these procedures, we invite you to contact one of our doctors for a private consultation.