Judy: I had read that most doctors in the U.S. are not experienced at doing Restylane injections….but despite that, it seemed like such a promising treatment, so i had to give it a try. I found a dr. near me who claimed to have done a lot of these, so I figured why not. It was definitely pricey ($700 a cc) but I saved my money and i went for it. Well my doctor was a very nice guy, but it looked like he injected the filler not directly into the line. So it looks kind of like there’s this puffy protrusion slightly below my forehead line…almost like a worm beneath the skin. To put it bluntly, he did a terrible job, altho i know he meant well. My only solace is that it will wear off eventually.

lara: The Restylane injections were much shorter-lived than I expected. I don’t mind doing it once or twice but it strikes me as an unhealthy practice to maintain, not the mention expensive. I was hoping to find a cream online that would have an impact on my complexion and perhaps prevent further damage/wrinkles. Restylane just doesn’t make sense for my lifestyle.

Mara: What I wanted was a way to immediately get rid of those folds between my nose and mouth, so I decided to get Restylane injections. I didn’t realize how PAINFUL it would be, my skin looked a little better for a few months but when the time came to decide whether or not to get another injection, I decided not too, it’s not worth it to go through the pain every few months.

Maya: ugh the Restylane injections seriously HURT….the worst part was i wasn’t able to afford another vial of it, even tho the doc said i would probably need another vial due to the depth of my wrinkles. But that woulda cost me another $800 bucks and i didn’t have it. so i was left with a partial filling of the wrinkles, not enough to make much of a difference. overall? Not worth it for me.

Dominique: Restylane is my best friend. When I first started noticing all those little lines around my mouth, I just hated it. I wanted them GONE! It looked like I’d been smoking for about 30 years, and I hadn’t. What kind of a bad joke is that? I went to my dermatologist to see what could be done, and he suggested a combination of Restylane and collagen, followed by the daily use of Prevage. Well, the man is obviously a genius. My mouth looks fantastic…back to a little bit puffy, quite sexy thank you, and the lines are gone. It wasn’t all that bad as far as price goes…people may have to cut back on groceries and gasoline, but I’ll never let my appointments with Restylane become any part of a budget cut!

Leijia: My intent was to have fuller lips with Restylane, and I got them, but not the way I had hoped. They were very red and swollen for a week! And unfortunately there’s no way to hide your lips, unless you wear a dark veil over your face. So embarassing.

Terri: I had SEVERE irritation and swelling with Restylane that lasted several weeks. They say that some people just get a bad reaction to this stuff, & i suppose i was one of those people. NOT good, not good. There’s a difference between filling a wrinkle and bloating up the face like a balloon!!! not for me.

Anita: Look, when gas and food cost more than I make in a month there is no way I can spend on beauty injections. I am reworking the family budget this morning and trying to decide where my vanity falls on our priority list. Not very high, I am thinking. But I have to have something, right? I need a little treat and to feel pretty. No more Restylane injections unfortunately…

Catherine: I am one of those people who gets cold sores, and after i got Restylane injections in my lips, i got the nastiest cluster of cold sores you ever saw. My lips were hardly luscious or kissable, I will tell you that! It was revolting. I later read that these injections can aggravate herpes. I think the doc shoulda told me that….

Claire: I like to do a lot of research before I buy anything. I know that Restylane treatments are as common as anything but I still have a bad feeling about it. For me, not you. Do what you please, I always say. I prefer something a little less invasive. I have used Avon products for years but their quality seems to be slipping lately and I need a beauty fluid that will keep me looking as great as my friend who have all had Restylane or Botox of another poison in their faces.

tina: i know Restylane injections are supposed to last like 6 mos to a year but i could swear i saw the effects starting to fade after just 1 month. I was very disspointed and i’m not going to spend that much money on this ever again.

Leslie: Well i happen to love that Restylane has no animal ingredients.

Lucy: I didn’t inform my care giver about my history of cystic acne and I think that was a mistake. The Restylane injections have caused inflammation on my cheeks and forehead that is really unpleasant. I guess I forgot I used to have such sensitive skin. I hope it goes away soon and I can find a safer alternative.

Carmen: Well, I tried Restylane, and it really hurt! They put a sort of numbing cream on your face (tip!) and then when you sit down to have it done, the first thing you see is a big tray of syringes that look really scary. I thought for a minute I must have come in for a root canal, not a beauty treatment! Anyway, they really numb up your face, and then start pushing the Restylane in. Yowwweeee! I could hardly sit still! The doctor kept saying I was doing fine, but good grief! When it was done, my face looked strange. Perhaps I’d gotten used to those wrinkles? Perhaps I like my face “as is” better than I’d thought? I wouldn’t use it again. Sure, my face was smoother, but the result really wasn’t what I’d hoped for, and it sure hurt!

Danielle: This is something I have been looking into but am not sure if Restylane is the way to go. It seems pretty expensive for soemthign so temporary. At what point does the treatment start to fade, for the average person?

Gina: How can anyone afford this? Just to have one area of your face done is $500!!! Or am I asking the wrong doctor? Is this the going price? What’s anyone else heard?

Karita: I took a medical vacation south of the border for a little Restylane and Relaxation – the new R&R. Maybe I should have researched the doctors in the practice more carefully because it looked all wrong, uneven and swollen. I was a fright for over a week-and then back to saggy skin and baggy chin. I will certainly rethink my plan to go back next year for a tummy tuck.

Nola: is it hard to find a good doctor to do the treatments, how do you know who to trust.

Mavis: I had a fine experience with Restylane but as someone else mentioned it no longer seems prudent to spend money this way with the economy in the crapper. I am determined to buy a moisturizer for mature skin today, so I won’t be temped to get more injections before all the parties and trips this summer.

Janet: The thing they don’t really tell you is that the amount of Restylane you will need depends on how old you are and how deep your wrinkles are. For a youngish woman, maybe 30 something, you will only need one vial and can get away with paying like $600-$700. But for somebody who has some seriously deep wrinkles like my “marionette lines,” they are just going to need to use more filler in order to get the job done. I ended up requiring 2 full vials which cost me $1,200. It did look nice for a while, but it only lasted about 2 mos. for me and I simply can’t afford that expense as often as that!

Nina: I figured it wasn’t Botulism so how bad could it be? I really didn’t experience pain with Restylane but I didn’t much care for the results. I didn’t look like myself at all. Thank goodness it lasted only a few weeks.

Katee: So I finally decided on getting Restylane for my “worry lines” after having no success with Frownies. I tried that first, hoping to avoid the injections, but I couldn’t take it anymore. The lines were gone instantly, I just had minor swelling, nothing too bad.

Eileen: Fish lips, that’s me! When you look at me from the side, all you see are these sticky out things that don’t fit the rest of my face. I know they’ll go down, but until they do, I’m staying home. It’s either that or start wearing a hook…

Sherri: I tried Restylane between my nose and mouth, and I couldn’t stop sneezing every time the doctor tried to finish the injections! It was just so irritating, and every place he put the needle in, it itched. That certainly should have been a hint to stop! My face looks like a fat pincushion! So sad, for all that money.

Gwenna: It just figures that American docs are clueless about Restylane. I got a botched job about 6 mos. back. I think I’m gonna wait until the U.S. catches up with the rest of the world before i do this again. either that, or get it done next time I visit Europe.

Miriam: When I turned 45, I began looking for ways to make my skin look younger, and after some searching, I decided to try Restylane. My main concern were the lines around my eyes, they were pretty deep. I was very pleased with the results of the first treatment, the lines were filled in, I had very little swelling and it lasted for 6 months. I decided to go back for more. THis time, I had the area under my eyes done as well as the corners. Well, the recovery time was a lot longer and it actualy hurt more. I dont know why it was different, but I am very hesitant to go back now, I am approaching the six monhts, and my eyes are starting to sag again.

sandra: Do they at least give you an anesthetic before they stick a needle in your FACE? I mean, I don’t like anything touching my face, I’m still squeamish about putting my contact lenses in after 15 years.

Anastasia: 50 is the new 40 because every other fifty year old woman has had some “work” done. I felt the need to compete. Suddenly women 10 years older as well as those 10 years younger were all hot and confident. I did not want to be left out. I went out and got a Restylane injection and really loved my new face for the first few days. I had the skin rejuvenation and deep hydration. No one explained to me that I would need to go back for maintenance so often. I can probably schedule the appointments for the summer but when the kids are back in school I don’t see how it will be possible and then what will I do??!

Paula: I love Botox, but I’m not so sold on Restylane. I guess I’m sort of a needle junky when it comes to having injections in my face…I love the instant results, and I even kind of like the pain. The last time I had Botox, there were still some wrinkles on my forehead, so my doctor said he could follow it up with Restylane. Why not, I thought…well…here’s why not. My face was a little bit over frozen, and I ended up with puffs between my eyes where the wrinkles were. Actually, are. The Restylane didn’t get rid of them the way my doc said, and now I really do look like something’s wrong with my face. Hurry up and wear off!

Anista: Well, I DO like having fuller lips, I used Restylane just as an experiment to see how I would look. Very sexy! But this is not somethign I can afford to do 2x a year. I’ve read about lip enhancement creams, etc, do any of those work?? I think I need to go for that next.

Laura: I think Restylane is fine and gives a good result BUT i just can’t afford it anymore. I got 2 treatments last year but our financial situation has changed recently and so this is done and over with until further notice. I’m just hoping that maybe there is a topical product out there that works almost as well as Restylane? Any tips on that?

Sandie: BAd news!

Vera: I don’t think so. The results may be good, but it’s just too darn expensive. If I can afford Restylane, I can afford plastic surgery that at least lasts, and that’s what I’m going to do. I’m tired of all this half way stuff.

Ileana: Every woman I work with was getting some kind of treatment done, and then some of my sisters & cousins began too, and I was left feeling…old & ugly. Restylane was an immediate answer, I liked the quick results, but it was pretty painful. I’d like to keep this youthful look, but am not sure how. Do any of these antiwrinkle creams work at all, what’s a good one? I know some have collagen.

Laurel: Is there any reason you couldn’t wear makeup the day after a Restylane? Does anyone know?

Valerie: Hi, Sandra: I don’t know how other doctors do it, but mine gave me NO ANESTHETIC before my injections, and it hurt terribly. I had tears streaming from my eyes by the end. Maybe i am just a wimp, but this hurt too badly for me to do it again. The results were “ok” but nothing amazing.

Heidi: Is it a good idea to use Arnica cream BEFORE you go to get the Restylane treatment? Or is it just for afterwards? I am scheduled to go in on Friday morning and am starting to feel just a wee bit nervous…

jena: I got Restylane injections on my lunch hour and went back to work immediately afterwards. The thing is, my face was bleeding, and it kept bleeding for a while. The fact that i wasn’t allowed to wear makeup made it quite a bit more embarrassing (not that makeup will necessarily cover up a bleeding face!). The thing is eveyrone was asking me what happened. I just said, “my cat scratched me.” And one girl was like “you saw your cat over lunch?” Cuz i live an hour away and everyone knows it. I just shrugged and shut up. now everyone definitely thinks i am a freak.

Natalie: Restylane left a huge bruise on my forehead, it didn’t go away for almost a week. No one said anything, it was pretty obvious where it had come from, but I felt very humiliated. I was trying to improve my face and instead looked like I’d gotten beaten up. NEver again.

Carly: This is sounding worse & worse the more I read about Restylane, I’m really not sure I want to invest any money in this. I have also been reading up on some creams, a few actually sound promising, using advanced ingredients. I;m leaning towards Hydroxatone, have any of you tried that? Success?

DeeDee: I just read that Restylane is considered a “hyaluronic injectable.” Does that mean it’s Hyaluronic Acid? I’ve heard good things about it, & I’ve even seen a few anti-aging creams that have it in them. Any chance that these work? i’d rather just apply it topically than have a giant syringe stuck in my face.

Juliet: My husband bought me a “gift card for beauty” for Mother’s Day. It was a spa treatment that included Restylane. I didn’t know if I should be grateful or offended, so I went with the former and tried to be gracious. I would never have went on my own, I am a soap and water and maybe some Burts Bees kind of girl, carefree and outdoorsy. That was how I saw myself. Sloppy and old and unkempt is apparently what my hubby thought. (not bitter, really!) I enjoyed my day at the spa and even marveled at how well and refreshed I looked after the injection but I don’t think I would do it again. Too much trouble and I really like the way I look naturally with no makeup and just some sunscreen on my skin.

Deisha: I don’t want to do Restylane anymore. It makes my face look younger, sure, but is that all there is to life? I’m thinking that it’s about time I made peace with myself about all this aging routine, and just see what happens. I keep seeing women that have faces that certainly have lines, and they look wonderful! The character is there, the life is there…what the heck have I been doing to myself???

Ruth: Restylane was alright but I am waiting for the next miracle procedure to come along. I am already bored! In the interim some good quality moisturizer would be terrific, if anyone knows of one…

Shawna: The Restylane injections improved my face dramatically and it was then that I realized how saggy and awful my body has become. I could get a little nip and tuck but I thought I might try to actually diet first, so as not to become a complete plastic surgery nut! Haven’t had much luck with what I get from the drugstore, and since I know how much you ladies love to chat about what you love as well as the products that you hate I thought I would defer to your collective wisdom.

Shelley: Restylane was a HUGE mistake, it left my skin red & swollen, & itchy too. All that for moderate results that faded in about a month. I have not tried Hydroxatone, but have used Hydroleyes (http://www.hydroleyes.com/ ) and LOVE it, I think its the same company. I’ll probably get it next, I won’t put my skin through another injection expereince.

Jeanette: Really, ladies, what’s the big deal about suffering to be beautiful? Don’t we do it with dieting and all that damn exercising? If anyone suggests Pilates and Yoga to me even one more time as being more age appropriate than running, I’m going to clock them. And I happen to love Restylane. It’s easy, it lasts, and you look instantly a good 10 years younger than when you started. What a fabulous thing to discover! And, there’s no effort on your part…you don’t have to keep patting things onto your skin and searching for the next product…you’re done! And you can stop thinking about it, and just be a beautiful you.

jessica: This stuff is terrible….my lips look ridiculous, like one of those totally fake plastic surgery bimbo’s. I am so embarrassed. It’s got to be obvious to everyone i see that i have gotten Restylane injections. I told the doctor that i wanted a subtle look, but apparently they only know how to do it so that you look like a freak. I never would have done this if i knew it was going to look this exaggerated. I’m an intelligent professional woman and this trashy look is definitely going to be a liability. I would say to AVOID THIS if you are a woman who likes being taken seriously!

verucasalt53: probably beter than botox bcs it is natural & my facial expressions were still in tact with restylane. but i wasn’t really thrilled wiht the results, def a one-time experience. no regrets, just wouldn’t do it again.

Camay: No and no thank you. Restylane should only be used by someone who for God’s sake has some training. I ended up with weird bumps, some terrible bruising…so bad I even had to take off from work so my husband wouldn’t be arrested for domestic abuse. I mean, I really looked AWFUL! Definitely not worth it.

MadisonLane: Dear Wise Women of the Blogosphere: I had my very first Restylane injection this morning and I am on the couch experiencing slight dizziness and nausea: is this normal? My doctor who was wonderful did not mention this might happen nor does it say anything of the sort in the literature. I am a little concerned and hope this feeling goes away soon. Thank you so much, ML

charlotte: In my opinion the effects of REstylane didn’t’ last as long as they said it would. I started to notice the wrinkles coming back after just less than 2 months! I paid too much to have that happen! Won’t be doing this again.

Erinina: The pain was not so bad, considering my skin was numb. But I still don’t really feel anything, I had the Restylane injection 5 days ago. Is this normal, should I be concerned?

Bryanna: Restylane is what it’s all about. If you keep up with this sort of thing, as I do, you’ll see that other injectibles have tried to break into the market, but NONE of them have the success stories that Restylane has. There’s simply nothing better available. I won’t go without it, or try anything else. It’s made all the difference in the world in my face, and for those of you that are squeamish about needles? Just shut your eyes and think of England. When you see yourself in the mirror, you’ll be more than happy. The difference is amazing…the best product on the market, by far!

Bonnie: Hi Madison, Nausea and flu-like symptoms are fairly common side effects of Restylane. I had them terrible the one time i had it done and it scared me to death. Just rest and wait, they should porbably go away soon. But if not you should call your doctor.

Elle: think about this: Years ago we didn’t know about the dangers of smoking or silicone implants. Do many things that seem innocuous and good for man or womankind eventually are revealed to be quite harmful. It occurred to me that we don’t know about the long term effects of Restylane? What if it causes cancer or dementia? What are the doctors not telling us? I am not willing to risk my health. I would rather be alive and healthy with a few more wrinkles and sick with a mystery illness.

Kacy: Before resorting to Restylane I had tried several designer creams, peels, anything I saw & never really had any results. I saved money and scheduled a treatment, convinced this would be the answer. And, after I had it done, I thought it looked better, my skin seemed a bit plumper. A week later, though, and it was back to normal. Not impressed.

Lexi: Do any insureances cover restylane injections i don think i can afford it just now.

Kathy: Well, I’ve always been DEATHLY afraid of needles, all my life. Something about sticking something sharp and painful into my skin bothers me…it’s like being stabbed or something. Anyway, when i heard about Restylane i thought i was missing something important…I DO hate my wrinkles. But when i read that they don’t even give you an anesthetic, that clinched it. no WAY am i letting anyone put a needle right into my face without giving me anything to numb the pain. WHen i read that Restylane is Hyaluronic Acid, I started doing a search on “non invasive’ ways of getting Hylaruonic, and that’s what brought me to this site. I have found some anti-aging creams that have Hyaluronic in them, and some of them work great. My personal favorite is Bellaplex, which has Hyaluronic, as well as Collagen AND matrixyl and other great ingredients. It’s made a huge difference for me. I’m so relieved that i don’t have to worry about having a needle stuck into my face. whew!

Stephanie: Well, I guess I just don’t know if I’d use this again. I mean, I read all about it, but actually injecting this into your body? Is that ok? What if it goes somewhere else? Remember all that stuff about silicon when women thought that was an easy way to get boobs and they ended up with lumps in their elbows? What if that happens with Restylane too? How do we know it will stay put? And what about that news story that Botox could end up in your brain? Yikes! So now I’m really nervous about what will happen next. On the other hand, I look fabulous! Maybe it’s worth the risk….maybe I should stop thinking about it so much, and just enjoy it.

Jenneophyte: I am really appreciate of all the great information available here. I am considering Retsylane and have been exposed to fresh perspectives here today. I sometimes suspect that my friends aren’t entirely honest and forthcoming when it comes to beauty/diet tips. I honestly haven’t made up my mind but I am feeling persuaded to consider other options.

Alma: I think I had forgotten just how unpleasant my Restylane experience was until I read all the stories here. After a year and a half I could convince myself that it wasn’t so bad and I looked great, but really that was not the case. Thanks for sobering me up!

Monique: Bryanna – It seems pretty clear to me that you work for this drug company, as you ‘keep up” with how many of these drugs try to enter the market. Women need to have natural options for maintaining health and beauty, it is difficult enough to grow older in this society without the complications that could be caused by treatments like this. Please do not try to push your disgusting drug Restylane onto innocent women, this is nOT the place for it! Needle users are addicts, women do not need to burdened with this addiction. It is crucial for us women to stick together and find ways to be happy with our natural beauty, without causing furhter harm. Take your opinions elsewhere!

lisa: Restylane has not been perfected in the U.S. and doesn’t last as long as advertised- be advised.

ReganRosenblatt: I actually preferred Botox to Restylane, which I know sounds crazy but it doesn’t matter because I have sworn off all procedures for at least the next year that I am pregnant and nursing.

Dianelli: No, insurance won’t cover this, but so what? It’s worth every penny! I’ll never, ever stop using Restylane. When I first had it, I couldn’t believe the difference in my face, and what’s best of all, you feel so good about yourself that you look just naturally more beautiful, too. It’s the perfect combination of when your body and your brain start to work together. It’s positive, and quite wonderful. Restylane is better than hours of therapy!

Anisa: Well I have not yet decided if I want to have this done, I really need to consult with a physician I think. But I do have a question about the treatments: Can you treat several areas at once? I want to take care of the line between my brows as well as the corners of my eyes, and would rather get it all done at the same time.

mishelle: someone had mentioned Hydroleyes, I happen to love that cream, bcs it works on my fine lines around the eyes AND the dark circles which Restylane has no effect on. For eye issues its my HG cream.

fran: Major rash & swelling w/REstylane. maybe it’s good if you don’t have sensitive skin but i do, and it was very unpleasant. The results were also fairly mediocre in my opinion.

violet: hmm, i think if your using restylane as a substitute for therapy, there might be something seriously wrong. maybe this is not for me after all.

Halcyon: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. I have no doubt that in 10 years the evening news will feature babies born with three heads because their mothers used Restylane…I just think it’s scary and not for me. Of course, who am I to stop you if you want to poison yourself and your unborn child. And if you’re 60 I guess you don’t care anyway about that.

Michelle: I’ve about decided to stop chasing the dream and get real about who I am. Restylane was part of that decision…what do you do with a face that looks pretty good, but then the neck? Ugh. And the whole body? I mean, even my arms have wrinkles, and my knees are looking baggy! So what’s the point?

Parisjetaime!: I would love to go to Paris and get some Restylane, but who can travel to Europe with the way things are now?

Carrie: I first had Restylane done in Paris, it was a beautiful job, and i stupidly believed that i could get a similar result here in Virginia. Nope. Terrible work done here in the States, I would never have it done here again.

Alice: Restylane is fine as long as you don’t expect a miracle. The treatment fades and you are left with your old withered face again. But you can always go back for more!

edie: OHH you are SO WRONG about therapy. The fact that you even think Restylane and therapy are remotely interchangeable shows how badly you need therapy. Restylane creates a temporary illusion of “self-esteem” based on external apperance. Therapy helps you to accept yourself no matter what. Dianelli, I hope your insurance covers a good shrink.

Renee: Getting Restylane injected into my lips was the WORST pain I have EVER felt. The skin is so sensitive, the swelling lasted for nearly 2 weeks, and they were uneven too! Thank God I found Besoplex after doing some research for natural lip plumpers (http://www.besoplex.com/ ) It’s given me a much more naturally enhanced look, wihtout the pain & swelling. If your considering the injection – DON’T!!

Rosa: I am my very own Dream Girl! Restylane has given me back who I was, and I’m going to keep that! I’m not willing to let my face go into a slide…I was really feeling that I was going to need mascara about half way down what used to be my cheeks! It was just awful. TA DA! Restylane to the Rescue! Wonder why they haven’t come up with that as a catch phrase…anyway…it works in a way that nothing else does, it’s a natural product that’s absorbed slowly by the body with no side effects. Who could argue with any of that? And I’m looking Fab!

Jocelyn: I think the world has gone nuts. Why do we have to keep doing this to ourselves? Shots! In the face! I don’t think anything more has to be said.

EmoryAnn: I love being 40. I really do. I’m independent, successful and at the top of my game. Restylane injections made me feel as if I am unhappy with myself and my life. That projects the wrong image! Maybe I’ll feel differently in another 10 years but for now, no. I use a great lotion on my face every night and I feel that I look lovely.

Charlotte: So I know it says it’s natural & all, but there just seems to be something very UNnatural about injecting anything into my skin like this. And Restylane is still a drug, correct? I’ve been reading about it and am just really unsure, and my skin is sensitve. It concerns me that they don’t do an allergy test or anything, what happens if I have a bad reaction? I do appreciate seeing all these comments about it, I’ll probably end up trying a cream of some sort, I’m just really not sure about this.

Jocelyn: I have to admit I haven’t tried Restylane yet, and you know what? After reading today’s blog, I’m not about to. It mostly sounds awful, and even the good results seem to have parts that are not so hot. I mean, everything natural is not necessarily good, but I think I’ll take a pass on this one.

GEENA: HOW LONG BEFORE THE SWELLING SUBSIDES? MY EYES LOOK VERY PUFFY, I HAD RESTYLANE DONE 3 DAYS SHOULD I BE WORRIED?

Demi: I refuse to succumb to the pressure the media presents to women of a certain age. I don’t want Botox, Restylane or collagen implants in my face. I don’t want poison or needles or to end up looking like an expressionless robot. It’s truly bizarre.

Melina: When I got my Restylane injections, my doctor asked me if I played a wind instrument, because if I did I wouldn’t be able to play for a few days. I’m not in an orchestra, so said go ahead…but if you’re headed for a first hot date? It doesn’t take a brain surgeon to figure this one out…

Irene: As high hopes as I had for Restylane, it was a disastrous experience in the end. Instead of helping plump out my skin to get rid of the lines & wrinkles, the injection left my skin lumpy & uneven, it looked I had peapod stuck right between my eyes! Of course I didn’t even notice this until the swelling went down, and it was very tender to the touch. I called in to work for a few days, thinking it would go away. My doctor was no help, just told me to watch it, it was probably just a bit swollen. Well, a week went by, and I was prety sure I was left wiht these permanent litttle lumps in my face. I went back to have the doctor take a look, he said, well, it will fade in time, or you can get another injection. Well that was not an option! I had to wait 6 MONTHS for my skin to return to normal!! I am telling you ladies, this is NOT WORTH IT, I would never touch Restylane again.

chris: I had several injections about 11 days ago. I am not happy with the results. I have dark circles under my eyes and look like chipmunk–swollen and holding nuts. When will this subside?? Can I do anything to expedite my face to normal?? c

Cyndia Moore: I had it done by at Dr. Bloom’s office in Dallas. The staff there is great and really know what they are doing, and I loved the result, however, I was told that it would last 4-6 months, and the results were already half faded away in one month!!! They told me afterward that if you excercise and are active, the results are shorter lasting, but they never said they would only last a month or two! A lot of money for such a short term result. I really liked the way I looked though, and would do it every 2 months if I could afford it, but I can’t. I guess that’s why the movie stars look better than the rest of us!

kathie: got the treatment two weeks ago and am very pleased…Slight bruising for I week but I told the nosy ones it was from dental work…Right now very happy..look 10 years younger.(Am 54) just hope it will last…The DR. told me 6-12 months..That would be super..Would do again..Worth the slight pain from injections

DeeDee: I lOVE RESTYLANE. I’VE HAD THAT PROCEDURE FOUR TIMES. I WOULD LIKE FOR THE CO. TO MAKE IT LESS EXPENSIVE. MORE AFORDABLE. IT IS VERY PAINFUL.

K: 43 and just had my first exp w/ it – My lips are less swollen today after my shots yesterday morning. They do still feel sore and a bit hard – Hope that goes away. The lines on my face are GONE !!!! I love that and it looks normal – no tenderness or puffiness. I had slight brusing in a few spots my doctor added to fill in a scar area but that was all. If my lines beside my nose and lines drawning my face down last the yr, I’ll be very happy – I’ve had small lips all my life and she was VERY conserative but I still am not sure – so it the lips go away after 6 months -= that’s ok asw well – I’ll post again if my lips improved tomorrow or the next day -

rebecca decker: Dr. Rich- Columbia, SC- did 2 inject Restylane and one Pearlene… on July 17….I called 4 days later- the swelling was almost gone… but I saw very minimul results… even now 3 weeks later… no visable results under my eyes….I am 52 and plastic surgeon Dr.Rich said it should last appox. 18 months with me. I am horrified that I spent 1200$ (that I really should not have spent) on this….Dr. Rich even teaches in Derm program at Med school in Columbia SC…. IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO?

ka: very quick fix–BUT BRUISED BADLY –VERY SHORT LASTING AND WAY WAY TOOOO EXPENSIVE!!!!!!!! HOPE YOU HAVE A HIGH PAIN TOLERANCE

Blue Jay: Four days have passed since I had Restylane injected under my eyes. I haven’t left the house. I am frantic. There are lumps and the tissue is blue and green. I was doing this for a HUGE even Oct. 1-14 for which I have paid and booked and now I need to hide for family and neighbors. It is a disaster.

lisa: After reading all these comments and having the injections myself for the past two years, i cannot believe all these terrible experiences–it is surprising considering how popular restylane has become. It is expensive though and i have to save from each paycheck to have enough to do it every six months or so. My experiences and results have been excellent and subtle, but I can see the difference and it gives me a little confidence. I think WHO does your injections makes all the difference-they need to be a certified, licensed derm. or surgeon who has had ALOT of experience. Good luck everyone!

Robyn: I’m scheduled to get injections of Restylane tomorrow morning and although somewhat anxious, I’m now getting nervous. My doctor is a plastic surgeon who has much experience, and yet I know each individual can react differently to the injections. I’m scared. I don’t know whether to try it or cancel my appointment! My doctor says I need very little and only plans to do a sampling on the small folds (I guess they are the start of the marionette lines). The cost for me tomorrow is only $300. I’m in a quandry as to what to do! Advise me, reassure me please!

wendy: Well i don’t want to be a “downer” and i am sure that everyone gets different results…but I got $600 worth of Restylane on my nasal labial folds, which are very very deep (i’m 53 so it makes sense that they are) and really, it seemed like the areas were plumped up for about 15 minutes after the injections, but after that, it seemed like the stuff got absorbed into my face. Looking back, i probably needed another vial of Restylane to really get the job done. But I can’t afford that, not for results that weren’t even that lasting.

Linda: I’m in my 50s and a few years ago my dermatologist injected Restylane in the corners of my mouth where I have deep lines (from sleeping on my side, which I can’t do anymore.) By the end of the day I could tell that some of the product had already dissipated. Three weeks after I had the injections the Restylane dissipated completely. What a waste of $400.

Jane: I had Restylane 1 year ago for wrinkles on my upper lip. the doctor misses and stuck my upper lip instead, I screamed, and he took needle out. However, I’m left with an unsightly, very noticeable bump on the lip itself and he keeps telling me it will go away and to keep massaging it. It’s still there, and he offered to cut it out, but I won’t let him touch me now. He is, by the way, a notable plastic surgeon.

Dee: I did not get a good result with restyline. The under eye areas do not match and two months later are my eyes are still discolored ( purply grey) and puffy. I want to have the restyline disolved. Has anyone out there done this? Had it reversed? I’m a working performing artist and I don’t want to stop auditioning for eight months while it wears off. I’m just afraid the cure will be worse than the original problem.

joanne: you know, the costs of Restylane can be deceptive. they make it seem like it costs $375 but that’s PER SYRINGE and most people need more than one syringe, esp. as they get older. I am age 52 and i had to have 4 syringes and i am disappointed to say that they were absorbed into my skin very quickly and the results didn’t last long at all.

barbg: i had reaSTALYNE 3 TIMES IN 3 WEEKS THE LAST TWO TIMES WERE FREE AS THEY JUST DID NOT TAKE I THEN WENT TO AQUAMID WHICH I ALSO HAD TO HAVE DONE TWICE AT NO XTR CHAREGE I THINK MY BODY ABSORBS IT TOO QUICKLY

hannah: I am 38 and just had 3 seringes of restylane at 450.00 each put into the laugh lines from nose to mouth, a week in half ago, and my body has absorbed almost all of it already. I feel like I threw that money out the window. they told me it would last 6 to 7 months. I am very disappionted.

nancy: My consultant decided to try this produact on lipstick lines. What pain!! Real tears!! Never again. This was 18 months ago and I amonly now thinking of trying something else! Does anyone think the status of the practioner is to blame for the actual needle pain. Are doctors better than cosmetic nurses at this type of injection. Also in Britain not nearly enough legislation on cosmetic work. No more Restylane for me!!

HappyGirl: I had a restalyne (for fuller lips)at a plastic surgeon’s office. I was numbed so no pain. Dr was board certified & experienced. Lasted longer than 6 months. At first, I could feel in under the skin if I touched my lips. Waited a full year and had Juvaderm instead. Lasted longer, did not feel it under skin whenI touched lips. Very happy & will do again in a year. Don’t take chances. Go to a real doctor.

Jane: I have had restylane three times. My main concern was a loss of fat in chin area.I don’t have the nasolabial folds. For some reason it stays a very long time under the chin–practically a year because of no movement, I suppose. Three days ago, I asked him about moderate upper lip lines. He said he could use restylane but would have to go around the vermillion border because if he didn’t I would have fish lips. He gave me a dental block so I felt no pain. Yes, the lips are much better. Very subtle-no one has even noticed. Will I do the lips again–no. I can’t afford it but once a year for the chin which really bothers me.I plan on getting dot laser in the fall. He thinks that will help some with upper lip lines. I just won’t mess with restylane any more than maybe once a year. My injector is good but he charges $600.

Aliceinwonderland: Hi Ladies, I am in the UK and have an appointment Saturday one week before hols and this has made be very nervous. Cost vs results and the pain factor. I dont mind injections but some of you describe very large needles. I am surprised that the US is behind on this as usually they are ahead in cosmetic surgery. The bumps and swelling symptoms don’t sound too good. I understand you can experience some reaction to the procedure but I have to be back at work Monday! So far, I haven’t heard one positive comment – and one or two do seem like the drug company bloggers at work. Would anyone advise botox over Restalyne? I have a girlfriend you had the maxi lift which looks amasing – 4 weeks then back at work – is this really the only option?

Cleo: I had very deep marionette lines and slightly sagging jowls, my cosmetic surgeon refused to do any surgery on me as he thought I did not need it. We opted for Botox and Restalyne. OMG the pain- the first syringe was applied without any topical anaesthetic – imagine the WORST dental injection possible and I felt as though the needle would come through into my mouth. Not nice and hardly noticeable after one syringe. After 2 weeks I went back for a second injection – they applied the same topical cream that is used with a Fraxel laser and this somewhat numbed the jaw and cheeks making the needle much easier to tolerate. I look better, though I can only “feel” the Restalyne as 2 lumps where it is filling out my chin to reduce the appearance of the saggy jowells. My marionette lines are reduced and I look better and more “plumped” though not that you would notice in a bad way. The cost in Australia is over $2000 for 2 syringes, I dont know if I will do it again- perhaps when the memory of the pain fades and the product is improved. Surely a sub dermal filler that is more permanent in effect- without being as toxic as silicone- is possible? My next step is a full face laser resurfacing – am I mad? My hint is start Botox early…it really works.

Jane59: I have had restylane three times. I am sixty and have lost a lot of facial fat. I don’t have nasolabial folds but wrinkles and lines in chin area from fat loss. It does a great job there because of no movement. Took less and less the second and third times I had it done. However, the alst time I had it done for lines above my lip. Because I had also lost volume there, he did my vermillion border as well as upper lip lines. It does look better, but I am not going to have it done there anymore. It is too frightening. He did a good job and no one seems to notice I had anything done. But I can’t stand the worry each time that I might come out with fish lips. The lips need a really top notch injector–mine was, but that doesn’t mean he won’t mess up the next time.

pat: I had a consultation with my dermatologist. The esthetician gave me the consult, the derm would give the injection. The esthetician has had restylane and sculptra (she has big granulama lump on the side of her face from the sculptra). After reading these comments I think I’ll try something else. It sounds like it hurts bad, it may or may not last very long, it can make you look worse, the long term side effects really aren’t known. what are the risk benefits? risk fairly high, benefits not so great. I am 56 and a work out nut, in great shape physically. I bought some books on makeup tricks and re did my hair. that helped a lot. going to try some of the creams mentioned here. Thanks to all for being honest.

Jenny: Hey ladies, I can’t believe so many of you had a bad experience with restylane. I have been to see my board certified plastic surgeon twice now. The first time I had my folds done and my lips. He used two syringes on me. I was a little swollen (about 2 days) as I think two syringes was two much for me. I loved the effect and it lasted for 6 months. The second time I had 1 syringe on my lips with just a little on the folds next to my nose. It remains to be seen how long it will last, but I had much less swelling and I love the effect. Be sure your doctor is using the name brand Restylane. That he uses novacaine and he is board certified. At 41, my goal was to look more youthful without altering my look. Mission accomplished. The price should be about 600 including the novacaine. 400 for the second syringe if needed.

Leah: Reason For Injection: I just turned 30 and my lips are a normal size but asymmetrical (smaller on left side than the right). I wanted them 2x as big and symmetrical. I paid $215 for 1 syringe of Restylane to be injected into my lips by a plastic surgeon’s assistant (4 days ago). Consultation: During the consultation, she warned – I may have up to 72 hours of swelling, possible bruising at the injection sites (because I occasionally drink wine that thins the blood), sleep elevated the following 2 nights to avoid swelling, it is normal for the lips to be fuller in the morning when they are fully hydrated and decrease through the day, may have some lumps until the gel is dispersed and finally, the final result may not be evident until the 4th day after the injections (because we had to overcompensate with an extra injection on my left side to make them even). She gave me pineapple supplements to take twice daily for 4 days after the injections (to prevent/stop swelling) and 1″x2″ ice packs (to prevent bruising). Injections: Before the injections, she smeared a lidocane cream all over my lips and surrounding facial tissue to numb the area. It tasted awful and my face got hot and swelled immediately (I have sensitive skin), but I was fine after I wiped it off my face. My lips immediately numbed without any adverse reactions. She gave me a ball to squeeze during the injections. Then, she injected 2 sites in my top lip. The shot part was fine. I could just feel the thick gel being forced into my lip tissue and it hurt REALLY bad, so bad that I passed out (literally). She reclined my chair, raised the footrest and pointed a small fan on my face. I woke up and requested the remaining injections immediately – I had doubts I would make it through, but I had to finish what I started at that point. She then injected 3 sites in my lower lip which I was fine with (since I now knew what to expect). Sometime during the process, my mom left the room and threw up. According to her, it was the grossest thing she had ever seen. Day 1: Immediately after the injections, I had small red dots and 5 visible lumps at the 5 injection sites. I kept the ice packs on my lips that day until they melted (approximately 20 minutes), and did not have any bruising or swelling that day. Day 2: The morning of the 2nd day, my lips were swollen to 2x the size of my normal/regular lips and I had 2 visible lumps in my bottom lip. By the evening of the 2nd day, all swelling had ceased and my lips reduced to 1.5x the size of my normal/regular lips, but the 2 lumps remained. Day 3: By day 3, I had no swelling or bruising but still had the 2 lumps in my bottom lip near the injection sites. Day 4: By day 4, one of the lumps has dispersed but I still have one final lump in my bottom lip near the injection site. End Result: Now on the evening of day 4, my lips are 1.5x the size of my normal/regular lips and the final lump is beginning to disperse. My Actions: I never slept elevated, never took the pineapple supplements and never used the ice packs (after the injections), but did refrain from wine or asprin (to prevent blood thinning/bruising). All I did was keep them moisturized with oil based lip creams. Summary: 1 Syringe increased my lips by 1.5x. I never had any bruising, the swelling was minimal and the lumps have dispersed. It was totally worth the pain!! My lips look fabulous!! Future Actions: I am going back tomorrow for a 2nd syringe so my lips will be 2x the size of my normal/regular lips (my desired result). And, my mom loves my lips so much that she is coming with me to get hers injected, too – despite my ordeal causing her to throw up!

Veronika: I did not use Restylan, but instead got Juvederm and it hurt liket the devil-even though he numbed the face , but I am very happy with the results. I had swell*ng and dark (black and blue) marks like I had been hit on the face, but they could be covered up with powder. I am in my 60’s and the marrionette lines are gone. It was expensive for 5 injections–cost $1000.00 total. And yes, I would probably do it again.

ml: I had Restylane and Desport early June 2010. The Restylane was in the tear trough and at the very top of my cheek bone, below the outside corner of my eye. (Which at the time, I did not understand, because I naturally have high cheek bones and this is kind of where a bag was starting, why enhance this area). After the injections, it was like, hmmm, but the nurse thought it was an improvement. I thought give it a few days and see. Well, now 6-weeks later, I really am not happy. The cost was $1300 and I look worse. The bags under my eyes was the initial problem and still is. It appears the injection in the tear trough may have slipped down, so it is more at my cheek closer to my mouth, making me look more jowly. And the injections at the top of my cheek, outside the corner of my eye just seems puffy and has enlarged the bags. I look 10-years older. I am so disappointed, not only did it not work for me, but now I look haggard! Not sure what to do now.

Erika: Restylane left my skin it*hy and sw*llen. I am in my 13m. And I am still sw*llen!!!!Is this a never ending story o what. Grrrrr

jennifer: I have just had restylane today , i feel like a trout ! i just dont know how I m going to go out in public , i have put an ice pack on them and also the restylane recover cream and am hoping I ll wake up looking less swollen , any other ideas for swelling ? as it appears to me the swelling has got worse as the day has gone on ??

Rose: Hi everyone, I received restylane treatment 3 mos. ago. for the marionette lines. At first, I looked great, but after 2 mos. I have these hard lumps and discoloration. The restylane seemed to move South on my face. I look like a fre*k and this cost me a lot of money. I will not get the treatment again and I am hoping it soon disappears. Does anyone have a suggestion to get rid of the restylane sooner. I have been back to my doctor twice and I am scheduled again for needles to break it down. PS: My doctor has a great reputation for this type of work.

Cathy: I had this done today. The needles were h*rrible and the p*in after 8 hours is unbearable in my cheeks. Also, one side is bru*sed. The doctor said that he would laser a bru*se if one appeared. My face does not look like me. I only had one syringe. Even if I liked my appearance I would never do this again because it is so sore! I had a tummy tuck and bladder lift 4 years ago when I was 40 and it didn’t hurt as much as this. Please dont get this done! I would just get a peel and be happy.