Restylane Information
Cosmetic fillers work to help patients improve their overall facial appearance by smoothing facial wrinkles and fine lines. Some of these fillers include fat and collagen injections. Restylane is a newer form of cosmetic filler that has advantages that overcome fat and collagen injections.
Restylane is a natural beauty filler that mimics material found within the body. It is a non-animal, biodegradable gel that is based on a natural substance called hyaluronic acid. This acid is found naturally within the human body and provides natural volume and fullness to the skin. The acid works mostly with cartilage to protect joints, but it can be used to strengthen other areas of the body as well.
In order to provide the body cushion and support, hyaluronic acid attaches itself to water molecules within the skin. As we age, the hyaluronic acid within our bodies decreases. A decrease of hyaluronic acid directly affects the amount of water molecules within the skin. The reduction of moisture within the skin eventually leads to the formation of wrinkles. Therefore, when Restylane is injected, it can add moisture and volume which help shape softer, smoother, healthier skin.
The Procedure:
Restylane is injected beneath the skin in tiny amounts using a very fine needle, and joins together with the body's hyaluronic acid to cause an increase in volume. It maintains its shape using the body's own moisture. The hyaluronic acid, once injected, attaches itself to water molecules, and as the acid breaks down, every molecule binds to water. Over time, the same amount of volume can be retained while using less hyaluronic acid. Through these injections, Restylane smoothes wrinkles, shapes lips and forms facial contours. When used, it results in a more youthful appearance.
Will It Hurt?
The procedure involving Restylane injections can take anywhere from a few minutes to about an hour. Procedure time all depends on the size of the area being treated. The use of the fine needle minimizes pain, but patients can request a topical anesthetic if needed. If Restylane is being used to sculpt lips, a local anesthetic will be used. The injection results can be seen almost immediately. Treatment areas may be swollen or red for a day or so, but usually no longer than that.
Risks:
Like any cosmetic procedure, there are certain risks associated with Restylane injections. These risks are:
- redness
- swelling
- bruising
- itching
- tenderness at injection site
- allergic reaction
An allergic reaction to Restylane is rare yet very treatable. All other risks, if they do occur, should only last for one or two days. Discussing all risks with your physician prior to Restylane injections will insure that this is the ideal skin rejuvenation procedure for you.
Results:
Many factors including age, skin type and daily activities may influence the results of the injections, but Restylane injections have been known to last six months or even longer. Patients who receive Restylane treatments twice a year can permanently maintain their smooth, wrinkle free skin. Overall, Restylane is a safe and effective way to inject cosmetic fillers that will immediately begin to restore your youthful skin.
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