Restylane

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

Want to enhance your lips, or get rid of wrinkles?

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 synthetic, bio-degradable hyaluronic acid called Restylane® has been used in Europe for years.

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 drool lines at the corners of the mouth) also respond well using Restylane. Lip enhancement lasts 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 when we apply 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 2 treatments at 4-6 weeks apart. The repeat maintenance treatment is not usually required for approximately 6 to 18 months. 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 from six to eighteen months.

What should patients do prior to treatment?

Restylane requires no pre-testing, 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. Also, if you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that the needle punctures could contribute to another recurrence.

How is Restylane different from Botox®?

Restylane is a natural, cosmetic filler. In contrast, Botox® is a drug that blocks nerve transmission and relaxes the underlying muscles. Many patients have been very pleased after receiving treatment with both products.

How is Restylane different from bovine collagen?

Restylane is proven to deliver a longer-lasting effect than traditional collagen, with virtually no risk of animal-based disease transmission or allergic reaction. In addition, bovine collagen is derived from animals (cow) and requires an allergy test. Because Restylane is non-animal-based, it can be administered without pre-testing, so no waiting is required.

How is Restylane different than other hyaluronic acid-based products?

Unlike other hyaluronic acid-based products, such as those made from rooster combs, Restylane is non-animal-based. This quality virtually eliminates any risk of animal-based disease transmission or allergic reaction.

Do the injections hurt?

Restylane® is injected directly into the skin in tiny amounts by an ultrafine needle, resulting in minimal discomfort. The procedure is simple and convenient, and results are practically instantaneous. To optimize your comfort during the short procedure, your physician may anesthetize the treatment area.

How much do Restylane treatments cost?

Restylane is a customized procedure based on your specific needs, so the cost will vary From patient to patient. In general, the cost of Restylane is comparable to the cost of similar procedures. Because Restylane is longer lasting, it proves to be very economical over the long term. Please consult your physician to determine the best recommendation for your particular needs.

Restylane maintains its shape using the body's own moisture. So perhaps it's not surprising that the most basic element of natural beauty, water, holds the key to the long-lasting results you can expect.