Wrinkle Reduction - Restylane® & JUVEDERM® - FAQs

Restylane® & JUVÉDERM® : Frequently Asked Questions

What are Restylane® and JUVÉDERM®?

Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® are injectable fillers that are used to contour the face, using an ultra-fine needle. They are particularly effective to augment lips and correct deep wrinkles.

What are Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® made of?

Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® are made from hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in all people. Hyaluronic acid attracts moisture and adds cushioning, giving skin its volume and fullness. Unlike many other injectable fillers, Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® are not made from animals, so there is no risk of transmitting diseases as might occur with animal products. Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® are eventually broken down into water and carbon dioxide by the body.

How do Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® compare to other fillers?

Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® are temporary but long lasting, twice as long as collagen. Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® are not permanent, so the placement can be customized over the years as you age. This avoids an unnatural appearance as sometimes can occur with permanent fillers. There are no hard lumps that develop under the skin as with some permanent fillers.

Do Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® require allergy testing?

No, unlike collagen, Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® do not require allergy testing.

How long do Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® last?

Results are seen immediately and Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® typically last 6 to 9 months. Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® in lips typically last for 6 months, gradually getting reabsorbed by the body. Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® used in other parts of the face may last longer. Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® typically last up to twice as long as collagen.

Are Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® different from BOTOX®?

Yes, Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® are different from BOTOX®, and they treat different problems, but are often used to enhance each other. Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® are typically used to make one's lips look fuller, and to smooth out nasolabial folds, smoker’s lines and marionette lines (creases at the corner of the mouth). BOTOX® is used to relax muscles to smooth out wrinkles caused by repeated muscle contractions. At Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC, we often suggest using small amounts of BOTOX® to enhance the effects of Restylane® and JUVÉDERM®.

How long does the procedure take?

The injections generally take 10 to 20 minutes, but depending on what type of numbing is used, up to an extra 30 minutes may be needed.

Can Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Besides BOTOX®, Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® can be used after light treatments such as IPL, and various lasers, as well as Microdermabrasion. All of these require little or no recovery time.

Is it painful?

We inject Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® using an ultra-fine needle, but injections around the mouth can still be uncomfortable if not numbed in some way. At Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC, we provide several different ways of minimizing discomfort. Some people don’t want anything beforehand to reduce pain. Many people do fine with applications of ice before and after the procedure. Some request a topical numbing medicine. For this to be fully effective, please plan on an extra 30 minutes for this phase of the treatment. Some people prefer dental nerve blocks to totally numb the various areas treated. We also mix in a local anesthetic that greatly reduces the discomfort of the injections. We will work with you to achieve the level of comfort you desire.

What results can I expect?

At Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC, we will work with you to achieve the results you desire. We can provide a subtle, more youthful look, or one that provides more dramatic results. As always, our consultation with you is complementary.

Is there anything to avoid with Restylane® and JUVÉDERM®?

Yes. Anything that causes “thinning of the blood” can increase bruising and bleeding at the Restylane® or JUVÉDERM® injection site. Vitamin E supplements, St John’s Wort, aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), Aleve and other NSAIDS should be avoided for at least 1 week before getting Restylane® or JUVÉDERM®.

Are there any side effects?

Patients normally have some redness, swelling and itching immediately after the injections, although this varies from person to person. This can last for several days. The area injected may also be tender for this length of time. Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® are very safe, but in a small number of people, these effects can last for up to several weeks.

Can I still get Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® if I get cold sores?

Yes, but you should use an anti-viral medication such as Valtrex, Famvir or Zovirax (acyclovir) for 1 or 2 days before, to 1 or 2 days after getting Restylane® or JUVÉDERM®. If you don’t have this medication readily available, we can prescribe some for you.

Can I still wear make-up and other products?

All makeup should be removed before treatment. We have the Colorescience line of mineral makeup and can apply some for you before you leave. Retin-A and other retinoids can be used 48 hours later. Avoid heavy physical activity for the rest of day.

How do I find out more about Restylane® and JUVÉDERM®?

As always, we offer complementary and private consultations to answer any questions you might have, and to show you our before and after photos. If you call us at 978-263-1406 or 978-627-0233, we can schedule you for a consultation immediately.

American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Care Credit

Services Include