Restylane is currently the best selling injectable filler in the United States. It is a clear gel made of hyaluronic acid, which is a component of human skin and joint fluid. Hyaluronic acid binds water, so when it is injected into wrinkles, it adds volume, or fills them. This makes the wrinkles less deep, smoother, less noticeable. Restylane, like Juvederm, Elovesse, and Perlane, the other popular hyaluronic acid fillers, is purified from bacteria, so no human or animal proteins are present, eliminating risk of allergic reactions. Restylane is typically used in the lines around the mouth and lower face, the lips, and lines around the forehead and eyebrows. It last 6 months or more in most patients.
Perlane is made by the same company as Restylane. It is also a hyaluronic acid filler, also a clear gel. Perlane is thicker than Restylane, so it is used in deeper creases and seems to last a little longer, 6-9 months in most patients.
Dr. Goldman has one of the largest injectable filler practices in Northern Ohio. As a result, he was recently named an Evolence Star Trainer by Ortho-Neutrogenia/Johnson and Johnson, to train other physicians in injection techniques. He uses the injectable fillers as part of a full spectrum of option for facial rejuvenation. He believes in a graduated approach to facial rejuvenation, starting with non-surgical techniques, including Botox, injectable fillers, and medical-grade skin care as first-line treatment. The second treatment tier involves treatments including CO2 laser resurfacing with the Fraxel Re:pair laser and more involved injection techniques using fat injection (with the patient’s own fat) or layering of multiple different fillers concurrently.
Surgical options are graduated as well. The facelift remains the gold standard for facial rejuvenation, but other procedures including the endoscopic brow lift, eyelid lifts (blepharoplasty), and neck lifts can be used in conjunction with, or instead of the facelift, in appropriate patients.
Dr. Goldman’s extensive experience with facial surgery gives him a thorough understanding of facial anatomy, allowing him to use more advanced techniques than other physician less experienced in surgery and injection techniques. Feel free to email or call with any questions about injectable Restylane, Botox, or facial surgery.