Restylane Lyft is a dermal filler approved by the FDA for cheek augmentation and the correction of age-related midface contour deficiencies in patients over the age of 21. As with Restylane®, Restylane Lyft is used by dermatologists as one aspect of facial rejuvenation; a non-invasive cosmetic procedure used to fill deeper wrinkles and folds on the face as well as for volume repletion.

Where is Restylane Lyft used?

Restylane Lyft is often used in the mid-cheek area and in the naso-labial folds. It is used to add volume and definition to the jawline, the chin and the cheek bones. It is also used in acne scars.

How does Restylane Lyft work?

Restylane Lyft is, as Restylane, made of hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in the skin’s dermis. As the skin ages, and with long-term sun exposure, hyaluronic acid breaks down and the skin appears wrinkled, sunken and droopy. Restylane Lyft acts by replenishing the skin with the hyaluronic acid that was once providing support. Hyaluronic acid fillers have been used for a long time to plump up areas on the face and to smooth wrinkles and facial folds. Skin testing is not necessary for either Restylane Lyft or Restylane.

Does the procedure hurt?

Normally, the discomfort is minimal; similar as with other wrinkle fillers. The addition of lidocaine to Restylane Lyft and Restylane has markedly decreased discomfort during the procedure. For patients that are very sensitive or anxious, topical or injectable anesthetic may be used.

How long will it be before the patient sees results?

Results are apparent immediately.

How long do the results last?

The results of Restylane Lyft last for about eight to twelve months. Most patients recognize when the substance begins to abate as their face begins to lose its youthfulness again. As with the body’s inherent hyaluronic acid, Restylane Lyft is eventually broken down and eliminated.

What are the possible side effects or complications of Restylane Lyft treatment?

Side effects with Restylane Lyft are generally mild and include swelling, pain or soreness, itching, bruising and redness. These can be soothed with cool compresses and they usually disappear within one week. Rare side effects include darkening of the skin at injection points; sometimes this is seen in darker skinned individuals. Red bumps or a reactivation of dormant herpes virus may occur. Patients with a known history of herpes or cold sores must inform their doctor and be started on anti-viral treatment either the day before or certainly immediately following the procedure. Rare complications include granulomas (hard bumps usually not seen but only felt), infection, and even more rarely, skin necrosis and scarring.

Is there a recovery period after the procedure?

There’s no recovery time necessary after Restylane Lyft injections and the patient can return to their usual activities. But, because there will sometimes be swelling and redness around the injection sites, some patients prefer to have the procedure at the end of the day so that they may go directly home.