Dermal Fillers
Restylane
Restylane is a safe and natural cosmetic dermal filler that restores lost volume and fullness to the skin to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles. It is presently my favorite filler material for lip plumping. A great new use is for filling the depressed grooves under the eye bags.
What is Restylane made of?
Restylane is the first cosmetic dermal filler made of non animal-based hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that already exists in the body and provides volume and fullness to the skin. The hyaluronic acid in Restylane is a crystal-clear gel called NASHA-TM or Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid.
NASHA is biodegradable and completely compatable with human hyaluronic acid.
How is Restylane different than other hyaluronic acid-based products?
Unlike other HA-based products, such as those made from rooster combs, only Restylane is non-animal based. This quality virtually eliminates any risk of animal based disease transmission or allergic reaction.
Is Restylane safe?
Yes. Restylane has been used safely since 1966 worldwide. The most commonly reported side effects were temporary redness and swelling at the injection site. These effects typically resolve within a few days.
Can Restylane be used anywhere on the face?
Restylane has been used in more than one million treatments in over 60 countries to correct a variety of wrinkles and to enhance the appearance and fullness of lips. It is currently indicated in the U.S. only for treatment of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as the nasolabial folds. Other treatment is currently off-label.
How long does Restylane last?
Studies have shown that the average treatment results last 6 months or longer. The unique technology helps maintain the cosmetic effect until the injected material is nearly gone.
How often should I have treatments done?
Restylane lasts twice as long as collagen, so treatments are typically scheduled twice a year. Experience shows that having a touch-up treatment before the product has fully dissipated will enhance the lasting effect.
Do the injections hurt?
Restylane is injected directly into the skin in tiny amounts with an ultrafine needle, resulting in minimal discomfort. The procedure is simple and convenient, and results are instantaneous. To optimize your comfort during the short procedure the treatment area will be locally anesthetized.
Juvederm
Three different viscosities of hyaluronic acid are marketed by Allergan for more versatility. The prime difference is the concentration of hyaluronic acid they contain. Medicis will eventually have approval for a similar assortment.
Sculptra
This filler is used to fill fat loss from around the mouth and cheeks. It is quite expensive. In my patient population I am seeing more dramatic results by repositioning sagging cheek and jowl fat pads with the ThreadLift.