What are Restylane Injections Used For?

Restylane injections are a popular skin treatment for filling in folds and wrinkles in the mouth and nose area. These include smile lines, also called parentheses and nasolabial folds, marionette (side of mouth) lines and those found under the nose and above the lip.

Like another popular injectable called Juvederm, Restylane gel is primarily composed of a substance called hyaluronic acid, a compound that is found naturally in the body. This particular compound, abbreviated HA for short, is what makes your skin appear smooth and youthful. As you get older, levels of HA decrease, and as it decreases, your skin loses its integrity and vitality, causing wrinkles, folds and other facial lines.

The purpose of Restylane injections is to restore levels of HA to those problem areas, thus restoring volume and fullness to facial skin.

There are currently four different versions of the dermal filler available: Restylane, Restylane-L, Perlane and Perlane L. The latter two are stronger concentrations and are used for more severe cases.

How long do Restylane injections last?

Results obviously vary from patient to patient, but you can expect the effects to wear off after about 6 or 7 months on average. A question we are often asked is when it comes to Juvederm vs Restylane, which lasts longer. Again, there is no clear answer. There are doctors that say one, there are doctors that say the other. It’s really a matter of how much is injected and how each individual’s body reacts to it. Eventually, with either product, the hyaluronic acid is absorbed and follow up treatments are necessary to maintain the look.

How much does it cost?

As with any procedure, the price will vary depending on where you are located and the doctor you choose. If you are having Restylane injections in New York, it will cost more than if were to have it done in Kentucky. Also, you can expect to pay more for a more experienced, more qualified doctor. One syringe is usually in the $500-$1000 range, similar to Juvederm, however you have two choices when it comes to size, as opposed to one with Juvederm (.4cc and 1cc). So you might be able to save a bit if you require less product to correct your issue.

What about side effects or other concerns?

You should always educate yourself on any procedure you choose to have prior to scheduling an appointment. That way you know the risks going in. The most common issues are redness, swelling, brusing and pain at the site of injection. It usually does wear off after a short period of time, however.

If you have very serious allergies, and/or are allergic to certain bacteria or drugs, you should probably not have the procedure performed. Less common side effects of Restylane injections include facial bumps and skin damage.

You can minimize any potential problems by choosing a well-qualified, highly recommended surgeon or dermatologist to perform the treatment. Also, make sure you discuss your previous medical history, including any allergies and tell your doctor about any medications you are currently on.