Treatment

What is Restylane filler?

Restylane is a family of injectable gels made from hyaluronic acid, a sugar molecule that naturally occurs in skin and helps it hold water. Galderma, a Swiss dermatology company, makes the range. Different Restylane products vary in firmness, particle size and flexibility so that they can be matched to different areas, from fine lip lines to deeper cheek support.

Many Restylane gels use Galderma's NASHA or OBT (Optimal Balance Technology) manufacturing. In simple terms, NASHA gels are firmer and good for precise lifting and shaping, while OBT gels are softer and more flexible, designed to move with facial expressions. Products in the range have been approved by regulators in many countries for specific indications.

Why choose Restylane for a natural look?

A common worry with filler is looking "done" or stiff. The flexible Restylane gels are designed to integrate with tissue and bend as you smile or talk, which is why many doctors use them in mobile areas such as the lips and around the mouth. Firmer gels are kept for structural points like the chin or cheekbone. A good result depends less on the brand and more on correct product choice, depth and quantity, which is part of the doctor's assessment.

Which areas can Restylane treat?

Lips: Adding definition or subtle volume and softening vertical lip lines
Nasolabial folds and marionette lines: Softening the creases from nose to mouth and mouth to chin
Under-eye hollows: Reducing the shadow of a tear trough in suitable candidates
Cheeks and midface: Restoring volume lost with age
Chin and jawline: Improving balance and side profile
Fine-line hydration: Some Restylane products are designed to improve skin quality rather than add volume

For the under-eye area specifically, see our guide to Restylane for under-eye hollows.

Is Restylane filler right for me?

Filler works best when the main issue is volume loss or a structural shadow. It is not the right tool for every concern. Skin laxity often responds better to lifting devices, and lines caused by muscle movement often respond better to Botox. Re:berry doctors start by identifying the cause before suggesting filler, and many plans combine treatments in modest amounts rather than placing a large volume in one area.

Filler is usually postponed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an active skin infection or cold sore in the area, or have a planned dental procedure in the coming weeks. Tell the doctor about autoimmune conditions, previous filler (including permanent fillers), blood thinners and supplements that increase bruising.

What happens during a Restylane appointment?

Consultation: The doctor examines your face at rest and in motion and explains which product and amount may suit you.
Preparation: The area is cleansed and numbing cream may be applied. Many Restylane products also contain lidocaine to improve comfort.
Injection: Filler is placed using a fine needle or a blunt cannula, depending on the area and safety considerations.
Check and shaping: The result is reviewed with you in the mirror and gently molded if needed.

Side effects and safety

Common, temporary effects include swelling, tenderness, redness and bruising, which typically settle within a few days to two weeks. Lips and under-eyes tend to swell more. Small lumps can sometimes be felt and often soften with time.

Rare but serious risks include infection and vascular occlusion, where filler blocks a blood vessel. This is why filler should only be injected by a trained doctor who knows facial anatomy and keeps hyaluronidase on hand. Contact the clinic promptly if you notice severe pain, skin color change such as blanching or a dusky patch, or vision changes after treatment.

How long does Restylane last?

Longevity depends on the product, the area and your metabolism. Areas that move a lot, such as the lips, often last around 6 to 12 months, while deeper placements in the cheeks or chin may last 12 to 18 months or longer. Results vary by individual. Our answer page How long do Restylane fillers last? breaks this down by area.

Restylane or Juvederm?

Both are well-established HA filler brands with gels for different areas. Doctors may prefer one over the other for a specific area because of gel firmness, spread and how it behaves under the skin. The Juvederm vs Restylane comparison explains the criteria in plain terms.

Aftercare for travelers

For the first 24 to 48 hours, avoid pressing or massaging the area unless instructed, skip intense exercise, saunas and alcohol, and sleep with your head slightly raised. If you plan to fly soon after, let the doctor know your schedule so timing and product choice can account for swelling. Our aftercare guide for Botox and filler has more detail.

How is pricing decided?

Pricing depends on the product, the number of syringes and whether filler is part of a combined plan. It is confirmed in writing at consultation. To arrange a consultation, use the channels listed on our Booking page.

How much Restylane will I need?

Many first-time treatments use around one syringe per area, but some areas need less and others more. The doctor will recommend an amount based on your anatomy and goals, and a conservative approach is common, since more can be added later. The plan and quantity are confirmed with you before injection begins.

Can Restylane be dissolved if I do not like it?

Yes. Because Restylane is hyaluronic acid, it can usually be broken down with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This is also an important safety tool in rare complications. Dissolving may need more than one session and can cause temporary swelling, so it is best discussed with the treating doctor.

When will my Restylane result look settled?

You will see a change immediately, but swelling can distort the result for several days. Most people find the filler looks settled and natural at around two weeks. That is a sensible time to judge the outcome and, if needed, discuss a small adjustment with the doctor.

Does Restylane filler hurt?

Most patients describe pressure and brief stinging rather than strong pain. Numbing cream and the lidocaine contained in many Restylane products help make treatment more comfortable. Lips tend to be the most sensitive area. Tell your care team if you feel anxious so they can adjust pacing.