Restylane injections are administered in the doctor's office, typically for patients aged 35 to 60. It is most often performed with local anesthesia, especially if the lip is being treated. Since Restylane contains no lidocaine like collagen, patients may experience some pain and discomfort from the needle during injection. Depending upon the extent of the treatment, the procedure can take from a few minutes up to 30 minutes. Patients return home shortly after the procedure.

The doctor may first select one or more injection points for each location to be treated. Antiseptic is also applied. The doctor will then identify the right amount of Restylane to be used. The Restylane filler is then injected beneath the skin. Hyaluronic acid in the filler adheres to the skin as the water contained in the acid helps to retain volume under the skin's surface. The acid acts as a magnet for water, which helps to preserve the renewed volume of the skin. Results are fully evident within one week. Restylane has a success rate for reducing or eliminating deep wrinkles that cannot be accomplished with other procedures such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion.

Swelling may be pronounced, lasting for two or three days. Normal activities can be resumed immediately, though patients are advised to stay out of the sun. Unmanageable pain, as well as symptoms that are progressive or abnormal, should be reported to the doctor immediately.

Restylane treatments reduce wrinkles by about 80 percent. Restylane is a temporary solution and follow-up treatments may be needed. The most common side effects of Restylane include headache, nausea, flu-like symptoms, redness, and pain at the injection points. Infrequently, patients experience muscle weakness, which resolves itself within days, or in some cases, months after the procedure.

Plastic surgeons and Dermatologists may have extensive knowledge and experience with skin-enhancement procedures. However, some may not have expertise with this specific procedure — the injection, the proper dosage — or may not offer a medical setting with the highest level of quality care. Finding a doctor with specific Restylane injection experience is important for safety and for achieving optimal results. Consulting a qualified doctor will also help ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

Here are some tips to consider when consulting a doctor:

	Review the doctor's credentials, education, training, type of certification held, and number of times that the treatment has been performed by the doctor.
	Find out the dosage that will be required to achieve a satisfactory result for your condition.
	Ask your doctor to estimate the number of treatments required to maintain the results you are expecting.
	View before-and-after photos of patients who received Restylane and alternative procedures.
	Ask about complication risks and possible side effects, including the impact of smoking.
	Be sure to discuss current medications you're taking and their impact on Restylane treatment.
	Request a list of pre- and postoperative instructions. Following these instructions can reduce the risk of complications.