Details: Restylane^®

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Where is Restylane® used?
Common areas of Restylane® application include the nasolabial fold (the groove between the upper lip and mouth and the cheek), the deep folds around the corner of the mouth and chin, brow frown lines as well as acne scars and other deep scars. Restylane® may also be used in the lips to give them a fuller appearance and to smooth the fine lines in the lip area.

How long does Restylane® last?
Restylane® is gradually broken down and absorbed by the body over 5-6 months. How long Restylane® lasts also depends on its location of placement. For example, Restylane® placed in the lips typically lasts a shorter duration due to the dynamic nature of the lips. Reapplication of Restylane® prior to complete dissipation of the product has been shown to enhance the lasting effect.

Who is a candidate for Restylane®?
Many patients stand to benefit from the use of Restylane®. Patients with relatively limited areas of concern stand to benefit the most, however, as there are limitations as to what can be realistically achieved with Restylane® alone.

What are the limitations of Restylane®?
Restylane® cannot be expected to fill in large defects or depressions. Fillers cannot lift or reposition tissues that have settled with age and gravity.

What is involved in the application of Restylane®?
Restylane® injection is a relatively simple, non-surgical technique using an ultra-fine needle. Though some fillers require skin allergy testing prior to use, Restylane® does not and thus can be injected on the same day as the consultation. The area to be augmented is cleaned after which topical or local anesthetic may be applied. An ultra-fine needle is then used to inject the filler in a precise fashion. Ice packs or cool compresses may be used to reduce discomfort and swelling.

What are the side effects of Restylane® injection?
Temporary swelling and redness at the injection site are the most common side effects after the treatment. Bruising is less frequent. These side effects can be minimized by closely following instructions and by using cooling treatment as directed. Important social events should not be planned for several days immediately after injection due to the possibility of bruising.

What are some alternative treatments?
Skin resurfacing with laser, dermabrasion, chemical peel or radiofrequency treatments may help decrease the appearance of fine wrinkles and depressions. Deep wrinkles of the face may be improved by aging face procedures such as facelift or forehead lift. Depressed scars may be surgically excised.

Restylane® Instructions

Pre-Treatment Instructions

• Avoid aspirin, aspirin-containing medications, NSAIDs and alcoholic beverages for one week prior to treatment as these can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
• Avoid direct sun exposure for a week prior to treatment.
• Please let your physician know if you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, as there is a risk that the needle punctures could contribute to a recurrence. Medications may be necessary to minimize the risk of recurrence.

• Avoid aspirin, aspirin-containing medications, NSAIDs and alcoholic beverages for 24 hours after treatment.
• Avoid touching the treated area for the first 6 hours. After that, the area may be gently washed with soap and water.
• Refrain from strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
• An ice or cold pack may be used to decrease the swelling during the first 24 hours.
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be used for discomfort.
• Avoid direct sun exposure to the treated areas until initial redness and swelling have resolved.

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