What is Restylane?

Restylane is a natural cosmetic dermal filler that restores fullness to the skin. It is used to correct facial wrinkles and folds.

It is made of non-animal-based hyaluronic acid (NASHA). Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that exists in the human body and provides volume to the skin. NASHA is considered to be completely biocompatible with the hyaluronic acid, which already exists in the human body.


Where does Restylane come from?

Restylane is made from a fermentation process and, therefore, unlike other hyaluronic acid-based products, such as those made from rooster combs, eliminating the risk of animal-based allergic reactions.


What should patients do prior to treatment?

Unlike Collagen, there is no allergy testing necessary with Restylane. It is recommended that patients avoid the use of aspirin, NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), St. John’s Wort or high doses of Vitamin E supplements prior to treatment. The use of any of these products may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising. There does exist a risk of recurrence of cold sores from the needle punctures, if you suffer from facial cold sores.

Patients may use a topical anesthetic (such as LMX) over the counter to decrease the discomfort that they may experience from the needle punctures while administering the Restylane. It is recommended that the anesthetic be applied at least 2 hours prior to treatment.


Is Restylane safe?

Since the non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid used in Restylane is biocompatible with the hyaluronic acid in the human body, no allergy testing is required. Restylane has been safely used by many dermatologists and surgeons around the world since 1996. The most commonly reported side effects of Restylane are redness and swelling at the site of injections. These effects are temporary and subside within 2-3 days.

Where can Restylane be used?

Restylane is mainly used to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds.


How long does Restylane last?

Average treatment results have shown the effects of Restylane to last 6 months or longer. Restylane is said to be longer lasting than collagen. There has been some evidence that getting a touch-up prior to the product fully dissipating tends to enhance the lasting effects of Restylane.

Do the injections hurt?

There is some discomfort with the injections. The needle used is ultrafine which decreases some of the discomfort. Patients may also use a topical anesthetic, which can be purchased over the counter at any pharmacy.