What Is Restylane?  Restylane is a cosmetic filling agent made of Hyaluronic acid, which is a natural component of the skin. It is used in our office as part of an overall treatment plan for the mouth area and lines associated with muscles of the lower half of the face. It lasts much longer than collagen and actually looks better over time.  Eventually it is broken down into water and calcium and is carried away.  It comes in different consistencies for different purposes.
What Are Some Other Dermal Fillers? Collagen has been used extensively  but it disappears rapidly.  Radiesse® is a filler made with a natural substance  that has been used by dentists for many years: hydroxyl appetite.  It lasts longer and for that reason it should not be attempted until a patient knows exactly what effect they want.  Sculptra® is a type of lactic acid filler that  stimulates the body to make its own filler.  The choice is exciting but, again, the patient and health care provider must know beforehand exactly what they are attempting to do before using material that is truly permanent. 
Do I Get My Own Syringe of Dermal Filler? As with any injection in our office,  you will get a new needle and your own syringe of material.  Furthermore, you will pay by the syringe so any left over material will be marked and saved in our refrigerator for you.  In other words, we do not just put a new needle on the syringe for each patient; the entire syringe is theirs.
Do Restylane Injections Hurt? Not in our office.  Because the doctor is an experienced dentist, she is skilled at administering the necessary intraoral local anesthesia. Now you can have Restylane injected with comfort.  Some people appreciate a mild anti-anxiety agent as well.  We do not rush treatment or pain control.  Sessions usually take about an hour. 
Will a Nurse do my Injections?  No.  In our office the entire treatment is preformed by the doctor.
Of what is Restylane made? Restylane is made of a clear gel called NASHA™, or Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid. This Hyaluronic acid holds 1000 times its own weight in water to help restore volume to the treated area. Restylane is compatible with human Hyaluronic acid.
How Is Restylane Different From Collagen?
Restylane is made of hyaluronic acid, which is the second largest component of the skin (next to collagen).Restylane provides more volume than collagen, does not require allergy testing and lasts longer.
What is Botox®? Botox®  cannot not fill depressions or plump lip. Rather, it relaxes muscles that create dynamic (during facial expression)  wrinkles. For some patients it may be appropriate to use some Botox in conjunction with a dermal filler.  Botox can relieve muscles pulls around the mouth. Botox  is also used by dentists in the treatment some temperomandibular joint disorders.) We do not treat the upper face, but can refer you if you need forehead or eye treatment.
Is Restylane Approved By The FDA? Restylane has been approved by the FDA for cosmetic use.
Are Restylane Injections Safe? Restylane has been safely used throughout the world since 1996. Because Restylane is non-animal based, allergy testing is not required. The most commonly reported adverse events are temporary redness and swelling at the injection site. These effects typically resolve within two to three days.  Restylane should not be used if you smoke due to compromised skin vessels.
Where Is Restylane Administered? Restylane has been used in more than one million treatments in over 60 countries to correct a variety of wrinkles and folds associated with the smile area as well as enhance the appearance and fullness of lips.
How Long Does A Restylane Injection Take? The procedure typically takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the area treated. It is best to do a little, maybe 2-3 syringes at most, and reevaluate a few weeks later. We do not rush treatment.
What Should I Do Before Receiving A Restylane Injection? Before Restylane treatments, avoid aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, high doses of vitamin E supplements, or excessive alcohol consumption. Doing so will help decrease possible bruising at the site of injection.
What Should I Do After Receiving  Restylane Injections? Do not excessively manipulate the treated area for four to five days. Tylenol or Advil may be used as needed for any mild discomfort.
How Will I Look After Receiving A Restylane Injection? Normal activity may be resumed immediately following Restylane injections, however, there may be mild swelling and bruising at the injection site. Swelling should resolve within three to four days, and bruising may take up to one week to diminish. Concealer can cover any temporary imperfections. We recommend Dermablend® and  have various shades in our office for you to try.
How Long Does Restylane Last? Restylane attracts and holds water so it may improve over time before it is removed by the body. Studies have shown that average Restylane treatment often lasts a year or two when appropriate amounts are administered. Sometimes material remains  longer. Follow-up treatments are advised before the product has fully dissipated to help enhance a lasting effect.
Where Does Restylane Go After It Wears Off? Over time, Restylane molecules bind with water, resulting in the degradation of the product, which is then metabolized by the body.
How Much Does Restylane Cost? A consultation fee of $100 is charged and will be applied to any treatment  performed.  Restylane treatment is $450 for the initial workup / photos and this includes one syringe of material. Your first visit/syringe is deeply discounted to give you a chance to become familiar with dermal fillers.  If more material is needed  the cost is $475 per syringe.  The number os syringes needed will vary depending on age, application area, and whether the patient is female or male (men tend to require more Restylane than women). Lip enhancement usually requires only one or two syringes.  Small lines do not require more than one syringe. Deep folds need more. A follow up appointment is scheduled about two to four weeks after the first application to decide if additional touch up is needed.
Are Other Dermal Fillers Available? Yes, there are many materials available now. Restylane does have the advantage of being natural, and long lasting without being permanent. More permanent fillers (e.g., Radiesse  and Sculptra) should be used only after the patient has first had treatment with Restylane, is familiar fillers, and patient and doctor are sure about what is needed.
Do  You Ever Decline to Treat a Patient?  Yes, whether a specific patient is treated is in the doctor's discretion. For instance, we may not accept a case if  the patient has unrealistic expectations or would be better treated by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Smokers cannot be treated as the result will be compromised due to decreased blood supply to the skin.
Where Can I Learn More?
WWW.Restylane.com,  Ask us!