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Until recently, the most common and popular injectable fillers available were collagen products. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein created by our skin to promote elasticity and volume. As we age, collagen levels decrease and our skin becomes less elastic and sometimes sags or wrinkles. Collagen fillers, created from animal by-products were the only fillers available until 2003. One major drawback of collagen is that it requires skin testing prior to treatment, which is an inconvenient delay for many people. Restylane(R) is a transparent gel and is one of a family of FDA-approved injectable fillers. These fillers contain non-animal hyaluronic acid, which is an important ingredient in human connective tissue. Produced by a Swedish company, Q-med, it was approved by the FDA in 2003 but has seen wide use in Europe prior to that date. Unlike Botox, which works by providing minimal muscle paralysis to habitually-tensed muscles that create deep brow wrinkles, Restylane works by increasing volume and expanding the skin from underneath. Primarily used in the in areas of the face where wrinkles and aging lines appear in the folds around the nose and mouth called nasolabial folds or crows feet. Restylane also works great for lip augmentation treatment. Since Restylane is not manufactured from animal or human byproducts, it does not cause an allergic reaction; no allergy testing is required prior to treatment. This means that there is no long delay when seeking filler therapy. People with a history of anaphylaxis however, should not use these types of products. The active ingredient of Restylane is hyaluronic acid, which is produced naturally in the body. Because of its unique ability to bond with water, the effects of the injections can last for up to six months. Hyaluronic acid is often described as hydrophilic, or "water loving". When injected, Restylane binds with many times their own weight to water molecules. Hyaluronic acid based products work great as fillers because they can absorb up to 1000 times their weight in water, and keep it in place under the loose and sagging skin where it was injected. A new study from the University of Michigan suggests that hyaluronic acid products like Restylane also work by stretching cells in the skin called fibroblasts. As these cells stretch, the fibroblasts actually create new collagen growth. The new collagen aids in restoring skin elasticity and cell volume, which fills in the wrinkles naturally. The study also shows that Restylane appears to slow the breakdown of collagen in the skin by inhibiting an enzyme called collagenase, which is a leading cause of skin inelasticity as you age. Recovering from injectable fillers can take about three days and some minor bruising may occur at the injection site. After a few days, the doctor may request another visit to ensure that the injection volume is adequate and symmetrical. When considering cosmetic treatment like Restylane, it is important to find a qualified physician with a good reputation. Make sure that you and your physician review all options available prior to making a decision on treatment. If you are considering cosmetic surgery, contact a qualified cosmetic surgeon in your area today for your initial consultation.
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