Injectable Fillers – Restylane
A trademarked product, Restylane is an injectable dermal filler designed for use as a lip enhancer and a wrinkle or fine line filler. It was approved for use by the Federal Drug Administration in 2003 as a prescription treatment administered in a doctor’s office, though it has been used in Europe since the 1990s. Restylane is a clear gel with a base of hyaluronic acid, a natural sugar which is naturally found in the skin and collagen. It also attracts water, hydrating and puffing up the skin around the wrinkled area.
Restylane is injected into the folds and wrinkles of the skin, usually around the nose and mouth. It typically takes only one injection to get the desired result. Restylane will smooth the fine lines, giving a softer, more youthful appearance that lasts anywhere from six to twelve months. Restylane is also used to fill in facial scars that produce a depression in the skin. It can be used in conjunction with surgical procedures to offer a softer appearance to the facial features, as well. Restylane is recommended for light to moderate wrinkling of the skin and it is recommended for patients over the age of twenty-one.
Typically, Restylane injections are done at a cosmetic clinic, either by the doctor or a specially-trained nurse. There may be a consultation appointment prior to the injections. The doctor or nurse will answer any questions you may have regarding the treatment. The professional will evaluate your facial structure and where you desire the injections. At this time, they mark the skin to establish the sites for the injections. While the pain form an injection is tolerable, the doctor or nurse may apply a numbing agent to the skin to keep the pain minimal. During the treatment, the doctor or nurse will massage the area to ensure proper distribution in the area targeted. We highly encourage all treatments to be performed by doctors or specially trained nusrses only.
After leaving the cosmetic clinic you may experience some common side effects at the injection site. These include swelling, an appearance of over-filling, redness, or tenderness. None of these side effects require medication and some ice will take care of the swelling. These will disappear within a few days. Some other, more serious side effects may occur, though they are uncommon. They include swelling or redness that will not go away, itching at the injection site, acne-like marks, lumps, burning, scabbing, and hyperpigmentation. If you experience any of these side effects, call your doctor immediately. Restylane should not be used in people with allergies to any of its components. Your doctor’s visit will include discussion about any possible side effects from the injection of Restylane to determine if the treatment is right for you. For a full list of side effects read here.
Cost will vary depending on the areas of the face to be treated. Some sites require only one injection, but can include more. The average cost of a Restylane treatment can average between $300.00 and $700.00, depending on treatment and the cost of the office visit. Insurance does not cover dermal filler treatment, but financing options are available so you can get the youthful appearance you desire.
Restylane is an excellent and affordable choice for regaining the youthful appearance you desire.