What Is Restylane Used For?
Restylane is the brand name of the injectable dermal filler product line manufactured by Medicis Pharmaceuticals. Restylane contains hyaluronic acid in gel particles and is approved by the FDA for use in wrinkles and fine lines. Restylane is administered by physicians for cosmetic surgery to hide the signs of aging. Restylane is available in several configurations according to the size of the gel particle so that cosmetic and plastic surgeons and dermatologists can efficiently inject the filler to achieve desired results.
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Significance
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Restylane contains hyaluronic acid in gel particles, injected to fill fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced in the body and Restylane will eventually be absorbed by the body. Restylane is not derived from animal sources, and the reported risk of allergy or sensitivity is low, compared to other dermal fillers which contain bioengineered or animal products. Restylane is administered by dermatologists and cosmetic and plastic surgeons in a non-surgical setting, during one office visit. The effects of treatment can last several months and since hyaluronic acid is absorbed by the body, repeated treatment is optional.
Approved Indication
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The FDA approved Restylane in December 2003, as a mid to deep dermal injection for moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds in facial tissue. Restylane has been shown to smooth wrinkles and folds, especially between the mouth and nose (known as nasolabial folds). The smoothing effects were reported to last about six months, and most patients achieved their desired results with one treatment.
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General Use
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Restylane is primarily used to correct facial wrinkles and folds by adding volume to the underlying skin. As a dermal filler, it is contraindicated for use in breast augmentation and implanting into bone, tendon and ligament of muscle. Facial tissue is not very deep and Restylane is available in different configurations based on the size of the gel particle to meet the physician's needs. It is widely used to fill the folds between the mouth and nose (nasolabial folds) which deepen with age.
Restylane Products
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Restylane is available in the following formulations:
1. Restylane Touch which contains the smallest size gel particle in the product line. Restylane Touch is primarily used to correct fine lines around the mouth and eyes.
2. Restylane contains medium-sized gel particles and is widely used to fill in nasolabial folds.
3. Restylane Perlane has the largest size gel particles and is useful in correcting deep lines and folds and adding volume to the lips.
4. Restylane SubQ is used to add contour and bulk to areas of the face such as cheeks and chin. It is often injected into areas of the face to achieve a symmetrical look or to enhance prominent features.
Considerations
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Restylane does not contain animal products, so allergy testing is not required. If you are sensitive or have multiple allergies, you can exercise your option for allergy testing to the materials in Restylane. Restylane is administered in a non-surgical setting and anesthesia is not always necessary, but your physician will often have topical or a mild anesthestic for the injection. After treatment, the results will be visible and mild swelling may enhance the effects. As Restylane is absorbed by your body over time, the volume will decrease. Once Restylane has been injected, overcorrection is not possible---time will reduce the bulk. Additional treatment or continued treatment is optional.
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