
Aging is inevitable. Frown lines and wrinkles are bound to appear in our faces. However, some wrinkles are extremely pronounced which often leads to decreased self-confidence. This in turn lead to the influx of numerous anti-aging procedures. Plastic surgeries have become more popular. But to those who don’t want to go under the knife, dermal filler is the answer, which brings us to Restylane.
What is Restylane?
Restylane is a brand name for the injectable dermal filler that is composed of hyaluronic acid. It is a clear gel injected into the dermis, under the wrinkled skin. When Restylane is injected, the hyaluronic acid attracts water into the area. This volume of water smoothens out the wrinkled surface of the skin. It gives the skin a fuller, smoother, more youthful appearance. The secret to its success is hyaluronic acid. This is a substance that the body normally produces. But age and sun exposure gradually increase the rate of its degradation. Hyaluronic acid maintains our dermal volume. It attracts and maintains water on our dermis like no other - which is why it is labeled as the ‘super moisturizer’. One molecule of the acid can hold 214 molecules of water. Restylane makes its possible for our skin to regain a significant amount of hyaluronic acid.
How is it performed?
The whole procedure lasts anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour. No allergy tests are needed prior to the procedure. The doctor would evaluate the target area and calculate the needed amount of Restylane. After which a topical anesthetic (if requested by the client) is applied to the area. The doctor then injects the Restylane.
Indication
Restylane injections are usually done to individuals around 35-60 years of age. These individuals suffer from pronounced wrinkles, medium to deep creases, sunken areas (especially in the cheeks), recessive chin, and general enhancement of the facial features. Areas to which it is injected include nasolabial folds, cheeks, lips (for fuller, enhanced lips), and.
Associated Risks
Restylane uses a non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA). This decreases the risk for any allergic reactions. However, severe allergies with episodes of anaphylactic reaction are a contraindication. Precautionary measures are needed to those who are taking medications like anticoagulants, anti-platelets, and NSAIDS. The use of this combined with the procedure can increase bruising and bleeding tendencies.
As with any procedure, there are risks involved in Restylane. An allergic reaction can occur, along with infection.
Recovery and Results
There is relatively no down time after the procedure. You can resume your previous activities but approach with caution. Redness, swelling, and pain are expected in the injection site. It is expected to subside within a week. The result with Restylane is immediate. There may be brief episodes of bruising and redness but after a week, the result is evident. The effect however is only temporary. It will last for 6 months up to a year. Maintenance is needed, otherwise after a year your wrinkles will once again be evident.
Cost
Restylane is an expensive procedure. The average price range of the treatment is $600 to $1000. The price depends too on the target area and on your doctor’s expertise.
Final Thoughts
Restylane is relatively a procedure for those who suffer from deep wrinkles and deep creases. The result is immediate and is quite satisfactory. However, the effect is only temporary and the procedure is expensive. The best thing to do would be to prevent these deep seated wrinkles. Wrinkles are of course inevitable, but you can control its appearance and its depth. Maintain a youthful skin through a healthy diet and the use of wrinkle creams that are rich in antioxidants. This is a safer and cheaper way to maintain your youth. If you invest ahead of time with an effective wrinkle cream, you won’t need expensive wrinkle treatment procedures.