Restylane Fills in the Wrinkles

Restylane is a synthetic sugar compound that was created to mimic a naturally occurring component of connective tissue; in cosmetic circles it is known as a dermal filler. It was approved for use in December 2003, and since then it has become one of the more popular types of dermal filler. The compound uses the body's own moisture to retain moisture, adding water volume and fullness to the skin to correct wrinkles. It differs from collagen treatments because it is not made from animal fat and is proven to last longer. Follow-up treatments are necessary every six months, but unlike Botox, there are no adverse effects from repeated treatments. Restylane is also approved for use in other areas of the face. It can correct deep folds in the cheeks, bringing more overall volume to the face and providing a fuller shape. Additionally, it is used for lip augmentation when it is injected into the inside of the lower and upper lips. Typically the injections do not require anesthesia, but for lip augmentation the practitioner will adminster a local anesthetic.

Good candidates for the injections are healthy patients with realistic expectations of the results. As a dermal filler, the injections can erase the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, including laugh lines and “crow's feet.” This temporary treatment will not treat severe sagging, or facial discoloration. The procedure's full effects are visible about one week after the treatment, and will be noticeable for at least six months afterward. It is one of the safest cosmetic treatments available, and it is very rare that a patient is considered ineligible for the procedure. An added advantage of this procedure is the time it takes to complete one session; patients can expect to be in and out in thirty minutes.

Plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and nurses are all qualified to administer Restylane shots. However, board certified plastic surgeons are more knowledgeable with tricky injection sites underneath the eyelids. Furthermore, getting the injection from an experienced practitioner can reduce the risk of complications. Side effects of the treatment are minimal because with a synthetic compound and no animal proteins, there is almost no likelihood of an allergic reaction. The most common side effects are swelling, redness, itching, or tenderness at the site of the injection. These side effects do not persist and are typically self-correcting.

Advancements in dermatology and medicine have made it possible to maintain a youthful look without taking the extreme measure of surgical intervention. Dermal fillers like Restylane are virtually risk-free, requiring no recovery time. Additionally, this worry-free option is more cost-effective, with no adverse side effects from repeated treatments.