Restylane® and Perlane® Details

Prior to Treatment

Restylane® requires no pre-testing, but you should take a few precautions before being treated. Avoid using aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or naprosyn, herbal supplements that increase bleeding (St. John’s Wort, ginger, ginkgo, or garlic), fish oils or high doses of Vitamin E supplements prior to treatment, because these may increase bruising or bleeding at the injection site. Also, if you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that the needle punctures could contribute to another recurrence, so ask for medication.

Safety

Restylane® has been used safely by dermatologists and plastic surgeons since 1996 worldwide. Because it is non-animal-based and fully biocompatible, allergy testing is not required. There is virtually no risk of animal-based disease transmission or allergy reaction. The most commonly reported side effects were temporary redness and swelling at the injection site. These effects typically resolve within two or three days. Bruising may occur.

Duration

Studies have shown that the average treatment results last six months or even longer. The unique NASHA technology helps maintain the cosmetic effect until the injected material is nearly gone. Recent studies indicated that the treatments can help stimulate collagen production to prolong improvement.

Maintenance

Restylane® lasts twice as long as collagen, so treatments are typically scheduled twice a year. Evidence shows that having a touch-up treatment before the product has fully dissipated will enhance the lasting effect.

Restylane® works well with Botox® Cosmetic

Restylane® is a natural, cosmetic filler of skin folds and wrinkles. In contrast, Botox® Cosmetic is a drug that blocks nerve transmission and relaxes the underlying muscles. The combination is very effective at improving facial cosmetic appearance while maintaining a natural look. Many patients have been very pleased after receiving treatment with both products.

Perlane®

Perlane® is a natural, cosmetic filler of skin folds and deeper volume defects in the face that helps to fill and lift the face in a natural way. It may be layered under Restylane® to achieve a fuller correction. Perlane® has been a welcome addition to the FDA-approved hyaluronic acid family of fillers.

Restylane® is different from bovine collagen

Restylane® is proven to deliver a longer-lasting effect than traditional collagen, with virtually no risk of animal-based disease transmission or allergic reaction. In addition, bovine collagen is derived from animals (cow) and requires an allergy test. Because Restylane® is non-animal-based, it can be administered without pre-testing, so no waiting is required.

What to expect

At MDLSVI, only our highly experienced board-certified dermatologists inject Restylane®. To minimize the discomfort, we recommend a 30 minute application of a very effective topical anesthetic cream prior to the treatment. We use ultra-fine needles to inject tiny amounts directly into the skin. The procedure is brief and convenient, and results are practically instantaneous. We use ice to minimize swelling and bruising. To optimize your comfort during the short procedure, your physician may anesthetize the treatment area. At MDLSVI, we combine pre-treatment with topical numbing creams with gentle injections of local anesthetic to make the treatments as comfortable as possible.

Cost

Restylane® is a customized procedure based on your specific needs, so the cost will vary from patient to patient according to the amount one needs. In general, the cost of Restylane® and Perlane® is comparable to the cost of similar procedures. Because Restylane® is longer lasting, it proves to be very economical over the long term. Please consult your physician to determine the best recommendation for your particular needs.