Information provided by ASI: Boca Raton, Palm Beach & Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Looking for non-surgical advancements in facial rejuvenation? Well, look no further. With the recent introduction of a revolutionary injectable filler known as Restylane, patients in the United States now have access to a product that has been used in Europe for several years showing great success in achieving facial rejuvenation. While there are numerous injectable fillers on the market today, many of them have their drawbacks including allergic reactions and relatively short life spans. Restylane is a safe and natural cosmetic filler that is immune to these drawbacks given its unique chemical composition. In December 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the use of Restylane for the treatment of facial wrinkles. Additional applications of Restylane include:

·Lip augmentation and/or enhancement

·Reducing the appearance of lines around the mouth

·Modifying nasolabial folds (under the nose) and eye trough deformities

·Facial contouring of the cheeks and mouth

It is important to note that while Restylane has been approved to enhance the appearance and fullness of the lips, the safety and efficacy of this application of Restylane has not been established by the FDA.

What is Restylane Made of?

Produced and marketed by a company in Sweden, Restylane is the first, and currently the only, dermal filler approved by the FDA that is made of a biodegradable hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance present in all living organisms. This natural acid provides volume and fullness to an organism’s epidermis (i.e., skin). Restylane is produced as a clear gel substance and is injected directly beneath the surface of the skin. Through the introduction of Restylane to the treatment area, the hyaluronic-based gel adds natural volume and lift resulting in smoother wrinkles and less prominent folds. Moreover, and what distinguishes Restylane from other dermal fillers, is the way in which Restylane permeates the dermal tissue and naturally binds to water molecules. Through this action, the modified water molecules assist in achieving and maintaining volume possessing a natural appearance. Over time, Restylane is gradually degraded by the body and dissolves without any residue or trace. Restylane treatments results are immediately visible and typically last about six months. Factors such as the patient’s age, skin type, etc., will effect how long Restylane treatments results are sustained. Moreover, most patients require only one Restylane injection to obtain optimal results. Occasionally, additional treatments may be required to achieve the patient’s desired outcome. During the consultation visit with the cosmetic surgeon, the number of required treatments will be addressed. 
 

Side Effects of Restylane

As previously indicated, Restylane is safe and effective when treating moderate to severe wrinkles around the nose and mouth. However, as is the case with any cosmetic procedure or treatment, various side effects are possible. While infrequent, potential side effects associated with the use of Restylane include: redness, bruising, swelling, tenderness and moderate pain. In those instances where side effects are present, they typically dissipate within a few days. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Restylane?

There are several important factors you must consider in determining whether or not any cosmetic treatment, such as Restylane, is an appropriate procedure for you. During the consultation visit with your cosmetic surgeon, it is recommended that you ask the surgeon if you feel you are a good candidate for Restylane treatments. In determining one’s readiness for Restylane, you should:

Possess realistic expectations as to what Restylane treatments can and cannot do

· Be 18 years of age or older

· Be mature enough to fully understand the procedure

· Be in relatively good physical and psychological health