RESTYLANE® TREATMENT
RESTYLANE® TREATMENT
Correct Facial Wrinkles with Restylane in New York
Restylane® is a clear gel formulation of hyaluronic acid, a natural sugar found within the body that provides youthful volume and elasticity to the skin. As hyaluronic acid is lost during the natural aging process, facial volume is diminished and wrinkles begin to develop. Restylane® can help fight these signs of aging by restoring volume and fullness, while softening moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds.
What is Restylane® and how does it work?
Restylane® is an FDA-approved hyaluronic acid filler that may be used to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds. Designed to work like your body’s own hyaluronic acid, Restylane® injections can immediately smooth facial wrinkling, while restoring youthful fullness to areas of depleted volume.
How is Restylane® different from other fillers?
Restylane® is a safe and effective dermal filler made from hyaluronic acid, a sugar found naturally in the body. Unlike other types of injectables, fillers made from hyaluronic acid can be dissolved quickly with an enzyme called hyaluronidase, usually within 24 hours. Although this is rarely requested, some patients feel reassured knowing they can reverse the effects quickly, if desired. Since Restylane® contains no animal proteins, which limits any risk of allergic reactions or the transmission of animal-based diseases, there is no pre-testing required. Restylane® is an excellent filler to be used in the hollow area under the eyes as well as the nasolabial folds and lips.
What areas can be treated with Restylane®?
Restylane® is FDA-approved for the treatment of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as the deep “smile lines” between the mouth and nose (nasolabial folds). Restylane® can also be used off-label to correct hollowing under the eyes; increase lip size; improve moderate to severe wrinkling around the corners of the mouth, between the nose and upper lip, and from the lips to the jaw line (“marionette lines”); add volume to the cheeks and temples; and as a non-surgical browlift.
Is Restylane® safe and are there any possible side effects?
Used in more than 10 million treatments worldwide, Restylane® is the world’s most studied cosmetic filler and has a well-defined safety profile. Composed of non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid, Restylane® is biocompatible and will be broken down naturally by the body. Side effects from Restylane® are typically mild and rare. Temporary redness and swelling at the injection site is possible. These effects usually resolve within a few days and can be covered with makeup if desired.* Before your treatment, Dr. Levine will discuss with you any possible side effects and answer any questions you may have about safety.
Who should administer Restylane®?
Restylane® injections are best administered by a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon with an understanding of proper technique and safety. Both Dr. Jody Levine and Dr. Elie Levine have years of experience in administering Restylane® and would be happy to answer your questions about whether Restylane ® is right for you.
How long will the results last?
The results from Restylane® are virtually instantaneous and typically last up to 6 months.* Longer-lasting results can be obtained in certain areas, such as under the eyes, and with subsequent treatments. Treatments at 4 to 6 month intervals is most common, though Dr. Levine will discuss with you what treatment schedule will best suit your needs.
Can the effects be reversed if desired?
Yes. All hyaluronic acid fillers may be quickly dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. Though it is very rarely requested, first-time patients may feel more comfortable knowing that the effects can be reversed quickly, easily, and safely, usually within 24 hours.
Can Restylane® be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Various dermal fillers and other cosmetic injectables, such as BOTOX®, are often used concurrently to treat a variety of facial areas. Additionally, different types of fillers can be used synergistically as part of advanced layer techniques. For example, Dr. Levine may elect to use one filler in the deep dermis to provide structural foundation, another in the mid-dermis to replace lost volume, and a superficial filler to help smooth away surface lines and wrinkles. Restylane ® may also be used in combination with laser treatments or other procedures for even better results. Dr. Levine will discuss with you what procedure or combination of procedures may best suit your specific needs.
How can I prepare for Restylane® treatment?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Levine will thoroughly discuss your goals and expectations, including possible risks and the best way to prepare for your treatment. As much as possible, patients should avoid taking aspirin and ibuprofen-containing products (such as Advil and Motrin), St. John’s Wort, high doses of vitamin E supplements, and other blood thinners (unless medically necessary) for 1 week prior to treatment in order to minimize the risk of bruising. Patients should also avoid red wine and multivitamins for 2 days prior to treatment.
What should I expect during treatment?
Restylane® treatment is performed on an outpatient basis in our offices. The procedure is quick and simple, with minimal discomfort. A topical anesthetic may be used to increase patient comfort. Restylane® with an added anesthetic is also available. Restylane® will be injected into the treatment area using an ultra-fine needle. Results are seen practically instantaneously. You can resume your normal activities immediately following treatment.*
What should I expect after treatment?
Mild swelling and bruising is possible, but not always present, for a few days following treatment. This depends on the location treated and the amount of filler that is needed. Makeup may be worn to cover any redness. You may take Tylenol for discomfort if there is any, but don’t take aspirin or ibuprofen, which may increase bruising. Anti-bruising products containing Arnica Montana and Bromelain are offered and topical care discussed. Dr. Levine will determine which aftercare product is right for you. After treatment, patients may also choose to have LED therapy, which is known to significantly improve healing time and decrease inflammation.
