Restylane Treatments

Restylane is natural soft tissue cosmetic filler made of non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the human body. The Mayo Clinic says Restylane is injected into your skin to smooth out wrinkles and replace lost facial volume.

Effects

An ultra-fine needle is used to inject a very small amount of Restylane into the skin. The Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) says the procedure may cause minor discomfort that can be alleviated with the use of a numbing agent. The effects of Restylane typically last for six months.

Wrinkle Repair

According to RestalyneUSA.com, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Restalyne for the treatment of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. This includes the lines that extend from your nose to the curves of your mouth.

Lip Augmentation

Restalyne injections are also commonly used as a lip enhancement solution, according to RealSelf.com. Lip augmentation results in fuller, more youthful-appearing lips. Restyalyne lip injections may also diminish fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth.

Preparing for Restylane

Restylane does not require any pretesting for a possible allergic reaction. However, patients are advised to steer clear of aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamin E supplements and St. John's Wart in the days leading up to treatment since they can increase the likelihood of bleeding and bruising at the site of the injection.

Side Effects

The Mayo Clinic says the area of the skin that is treated with Restylane may bruise and swell for up to a week following treatment. In addition, Cambridge Health Alliance says people who are susceptible to facial cold sores run the risk that the needle punctures may prompt a recurrence. Although rare, red swollen bumps may occur at the injection site, or a blood vessel may be accidentally penetrated, which can have damaging effects on the skin.

References

Article reviewed by David Lee Last updated on: Dec 28, 2009

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments