Stony Brook Medical Park
2500 Route 347
Building 22A
Stony Brook, New York 11790
Tel: 631-689-1100
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FAQ's - Restylane®
Is Restylane effective?
Yes. Clinical studies show that patients injected with Restylane for the treatment of facial folds achieved an optimal cosmetic result. These results were sustained for a longer period of time (approximately five months, about twice as long) than with collagen.
How does Restylane work?
Restylane works in two ways: Upon injection into the mid to deep dermis (middle skin layer), the NASHA™ hyaluronic acid gel adds volume and fullness to smooth facial wrinkles and folds. It integrates into dermal tissue, then attracts and binds to water molecules to help maintain volume. NASHA™ hyaluronic acid is a normal component found in the dermis of human skin.
How long do results last?
The average treatment results last five months or longer. Recent scientific evidence demonstrates that if a second treatment of Restylane is given at either 4 1/2 or 9 months later, the results of the two injections may last up to 18 months.
Is any of the material left in the skin?
No. Unlike permanent fillers, Restylane is completely degraded. Over time, NASHA™ hyaluronic acid gel is eliminated by the body, leaving absolutely no trace of the injected material.
Is Restylane safe?
Yes. Restylane has been used safely by dermatologists and plastic surgeons worldwide since 1996. Because Restylane is non-animal-based and fully biocompatible, allergy testing is not required. The most commonly reported side effects were temporary redness and swelling at the injection site. These effects typically resolve within two to three days, although bruising, if it occurs, may last a little longer.
Is Restylane FDA-approved?
Yes. Restylane is approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds. It also is used to augment the fullness of the lips.
What should patients do prior to treatment?
Restylane requires no pre-testing, but patients should take a few precautions: avoid using aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil), St. John's Wort, or high doses of vitamin E, as these may increase bruising or bleeding. If you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that needle punctures could contribute to recurrence.
How is Restylane different from BOTOX® and collagen?
Restylane is a natural cosmetic filler. Fillers add volume to the face and treat lines of facial expression that are not due to facial muscle activity. BOTOX® is a drug that blocks nerve transmission and relaxes the underlying muscles. Botox treats facial lines due to muscle pull. Many times both products are used, as they have different mechanisms of action and treat different types of lines, however the effects are synergistic.
Bovine collagen is derived from animals and requires an allergy test before it can be used. Because Restylane is a non-animal-based hyaluronic acid, it can be administered without pre-testing. In addition, it delivers a longer-lasting effect than bovine collagen.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in all living organisms. In humans, it is used to provide volume and fullness to the skin. The type of hyaluronic acid used in Restylane is called NASHA™.
What is NASHA?
NASHA is a patented, non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid in clear gel form which is biosynthetically produced. NASHA is the first stable, biodegradable, non-animal form of hyaluronic acid.
If NASHA is not derived from animals, is it derived from humans?
No. NASHA is identical to the natural hyaluronic acid found in humans and all living organisms, but it is produced in a laboratory by a natural fermentation process. This is why skin testing is not necessary.
How is Restylane different from other hyaluronic acid-based products?
Unlike other hyaluronic acid-based products, such as those made from rooster combs, Restylane is non-animal-based. This quality virtually eliminates any risk of animal-based disease transmission or allergic reaction.
How is Restylane administered?
Restylane is administered by injection to the site where enhancement is desired.
Where is Restylane injected?
Dermatologists and plastic surgeons can maximize the intended effect of Restylane by injecting it into the mid to deep dermis. Contouring after the injection may be optimized by gently massaging the skin.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure is simple and convenient, and results are practically instantaneous. Also, since Restylane does not require patients to have allergy testing, it is not necessary to wait to qualify for the procedure.
What happens if the material is not injected properly?
Results are technique-dependent; improper technique can impact the overall cosmetic effect or shorten the duration of the effect. For example, if Restylane is injected too deeply, the gel can shift in the tissue because its particles are too small in relation to the tissue structure at that level. Injecting Restylane too superficially can result in tissue disturbance or uneven contouring. A touch-up treatment can be scheduled two weeks after the initial treatment to correct any minor irregularities.
How to Select a Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark D. Epstein, located in Stony Brook, Long Island is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in the areas of cosmetic, reconstructive and hand surgery. He has performed thousands of surgical procedures since receiving his medical degree in 1984. He holds numerous board certifications and is a member of several prestigious professional organizations.
