Restylane is a gel filler that includes hyaluronic acid, which is a natural sugar that bolsters skin elasticity. This is used to treat facial wrinkles and folds such as nasolabial folds by providing a smooth and supple appearance.

What do I Need to know?
Restylane is a dermal filler injected into the skin to smooth facial wrinkles and folds, such as the lines from your nose to the corners of the mouth (nasolabial folds). In contrast, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected into the muscle to block nerve transmission and relax the muscles which cause frown lines, forehead creases, and crow’s feet lines. Restylane contains no animal proteins. This may limit the risk of animal-based disease transmission or allergic reactions. Restylane does not require an allergy test and can be administered immediately, so there is no waiting for treatments.

Restylane contains trace amounts of gram positive bacterial proteins and are contraindicated for patients with a history of allergies to such materials. After your treatment, you might have some swelling, redness, pain, bruising, and tenderness. This will normally last less than seven days.

How long does Restylane last?
A patented stabilization technology helps Restylane deliver long-lasting results. Studies have shown that Restylane could last up to six months. Please talk directly with our healthcare professional about the treatment durations in general. Also make sure to discuss scheduling a follow-up visit in about 6 months.

Pre-Treatment
Before being treated with Restylane you should take a few precautions. Prior to treatment, avoid using aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, St. John’s Wort, or high doses of vitamin E supplements. Also, if you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, discuss this with our healthcare professional, who may prescribe a medication to minimize recurrence.

Post-Treatment
Cold compresses (a cloth dipped in cold water, wrung out and applied to the injected area) may be used immediately after treatment to reduce swelling. Avoid touching the treated area during the first six hours following treatment, so you do not accidentally injure your skin while the area is numb.

After that, the area can be gently washed with soap and water. Until any redness or swelling goes away, avoid exposure of the treated area to intense heat (sun lamps or sunbathing). Avoid taking aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, St. John’s Wort, and high doses of vitamin E supplements for one week after treatment. These agents may increase bruising and bleeding at the injection site.