Restylane Lyft

Restylane® Lyft, formerly called Perlane®, is a carbohydrate, hyaluronic acid, that normally makes up the majority of one’s skin by weight. It has been used throughout the 2000’s in Europe and Canada, and was approved for use in the United States in 2009. Restylane® Lyft is injected into the skin to plump up moderate to deep wrinkles and skin folds. It often lasts 6 months or longer, and can be used to improve smile lines and lip lines, reduce the hallows under the eyes, and enlarge lips. Typically, Resylane® Silk is use for more fine lines, Restylane® is used for moderate folds and some deeper lines, while Restylane® Lyft is used for deeper lines, deep folds, or to add volume to the cheeks, temples, and/or lips.

When will i see results?

One will see improvement immediately. Usually, there is some swelling of the treated areas, due to water being attracted to the Restylane® Lyft, which takes up to 7-10 days to resolve.

How long does the Restylane® Lyft treatment last?

Typically, the treatment will last six months, although individual results will vary. Acne scars on the cheeks or temples tend to last longer than treatment of the lips, where four to six months of correction is expected.

Does the treatment hurt?

The treatment consists of multiple tiny pinpricks and pressure that can be mildly to moderately uncomfortable. For those who are afraid of needles, a topical numbing cream (Elamax-4 or LMX-4) may be used to minimize any discomfort. Numbing cream must be applied 20 to 60 minutes before treatment and is available without a prescription (i.e. LMX-4). You may purchase this product at a local pharmacy. A thick, heavy amount of cream must be visible for the entire time it is applied in order for the cream to work. Do not rub it in or allow it to dry completely. Do not get the cream in your mouth, although it is not harmful, or in your eyes. Reapply the cream as necessary. Alternatively, we can apply a stronger topical numbing cream in our office prior to your treatment.

Do I need to be tested for allergy?

No, allergy testing is not needed prior to treatment with Restylane® Lyft.

How many treatments are needed?

For many patients, results after one single treatment session will be adequate. Occasionally, a touch-up procedure may be needed in one- to two-weeks following treatment to achieve optimal results.

Are there any other restrictions?

There are a few restrictions prior to treatment to reduce the risk of bleeding. One should not take aspirin or aspirin-containing products for at least 7 days before treatment. Additionally, one should not take Vitamin E, St. John’s Wort, or any anti-inflammatory medications (i.e. ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Aleve) for at least 3 days prior to treatment. It is recommended that one does not consume alcohol for 3 days prior to treatment.

Robert S. Bader, M.D., Dermatologist