Restylane® treatment is one of the cosmetic procedures available to reduce the signs of aging of the skin. It involves injecting the skin with a soft tissue filler known as hyaluronic acid to minimize lines and wrinkles, and impart a youthful look. Restylane® is the brand name of a hyaluronic acid based product. This treatment can usually be carried out in the dermatologist’s office and has a short recovery time. The procedure temporarily improves appearance of the skin, hence one usually needs maintenance treatment with the filler after some months.
Restylane® has been approved for skin treatment in many parts of the world including Canada, Europe, and Australia. In 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted permission to use Restylane® for smoothening facial wrinkles. The treatment can help diminish folds that occur about the nose, fill out fine lines near the eyes, enhance the lips, and improve contours of the cheek.
Hyaluronic acid, the type of filler used in Restylane®, is also found naturally in the cells of living species. It is a form of sugar that lessens the signs of aging due its ability to form a bond with water and plump up the skin. The hyaluronic acid formulation can thus ease wrinkles and creases.
Restylane® treatment is usually effective for about six months. The filler ultimately dissolves and assimilates in the body so the procedure has to be done again to keep the skin looking young. The patient’s age and skin type are among the factors that may affect efficacy of the treatment, and how long the results last.
Usually, Restylane® treatment can be performed in about twenty to thirty minutes. Typically, during the treatment session the dermatologist injects the filler under the surface of the skin using a fine needle. Local anesthesia may be given for carrying out the procedure. One could experience temporary redness, swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the areas treated. If the filler is not injected properly, the skin might appear bumpy.
Generally, the dermatologist reviews the individual’s health history and prescribed medications before administering Restylane® treatment. The dermatologist checks the areas to be treated to determine suitability of the filler, and explains the procedure and its effect. During the initial consultation one can ascertain whether the dermatologist is experienced in Restylane® treatment, and request to look at before-and-after photos of patients that the doctor has treated with this filler. In the United States, the cost of each procedure could be in the range of $500.00 to $1000.00. The cost often varies with the amount of volume that needs to be achieved, and the extent of area covered.