Introduction to Restylane Defyne

Restylane Defyne, a remarkable addition to the Restylane family of dermal fillers, has taken the New York City aesthetic scene by storm. Brought to us by Galderma, the makers of Dysport, this hyaluronic acid filler is a game - changer in the world of facial rejuvenation.

The innovative cross - linking technology used in Restylane Defyne allows it to replenish lost facial volume related to age, weight loss, and other causes. It is specifically designed to smooth out deep laugh lines, such as nasolabial folds (the lines that run from the corners of the nose to the corners of the mouth) and marionette lines (the wrinkles that form between the corners of the mouth and the chin and jawline). Additionally, it is effective in addressing mild - to - moderate wrinkles and folds, providing a youthful and natural - looking appearance to the lower face around the mouth.

How Restylane Defyne Works

Restylane Defyne utilizes a hyaluronic acid formulation with unique XpresHan cross - linking technology. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that is essential for skin elasticity and moisture. When injected, the XpresHan technology enables the hyaluronic acid to cross - link with the skin cells. This cross - linking creates a three - dimensional network that not only fills in wrinkles and folds but also allows the filler to move naturally as you make facial expressions. So, whether you're smiling, frowning, or talking, the results appear soft and natural, without any stiffness or lumpiness.

As stated on Dr. Michele Green's website, this technology also helps in stimulating new collagen growth, leading to long - term facial rejuvenation and anti - aging effects. The gel is able to mold to your tissue and flex within your skin, giving you a more youthful and natural look.

What Restylane Defyne is Used For

Since 2016, Restylane Defyne has been FDA - approved for use on moderate to severe nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and facial wrinkles around the mouth and lower face. In Europe, it was commonly used under the name Emervel starting in 2010 for the same purpose. Some injectors also utilize it in the lips to create more definition, although there are other more specifically formulated lip fillers available within the Restylane family, such as Restylane - L, Restylane Silk, and Restylane Kysse.

In 2021, Restylane Defyne received FDA approval for chin augmentation. It helps to enhance the jawline, reduce the appearance of chin recession and jowls, and improve chin projection. This dual functionality of treating facial wrinkles and enhancing the chin makes it a versatile option for patients seeking non - invasive facial rejuvenation.

Comparing Restylane Defyne with Other Restylane Products

Restylane Defyne vs. Restylane Refyne

Both Restylane Defyne and Restylane Refyne are designed to improve the look of nasolabial folds, frown lines, marionette lines, and other fine lines around the mouth and lower face. They also use advanced XpresHan technology to smooth and firm the skin while maintaining natural expression. Clinical studies have shown that 97% of subjects were satisfied with the results in terms of natural expression.

However, the main difference lies in the density of the cross - linking technology. Restylane Refyne is a more malleable gel, making it better suited for treating mild - to - moderate facial wrinkles. On the other hand, Restylane Defyne is more dense and is tailor - made to treat moderate - to - severe creases and folds. Also, due to its slightly thicker volume - boosting formulation, Restylane Defyne is FDA - approved for improving chin projection, while Restylane Refyne is not typically used for this purpose.

Restylane Defyne vs. Restylane Lyft

Restylane Lyft is the densest formula among some of the Restylane products. It is best used in areas with little facial movement, such as adding volume back to the cheeks and face to restore youthful contours. In contrast, Restylane Defyne is focused on the lower face, particularly around the mouth and chin area. So, while both products are for volume restoration, they are used in different areas of the face based on their characteristics.

Restylane Defyne vs. Restylane Kysse

Restylane Kysse is specifically formulated for the lips. It is designed with smaller particles to create a natural, even fullness that can last 9 to 12 months. It is great for improving fullness, smoothing lines, defining the lip border, and upturning mouth corners with less swelling after the procedure. Restylane Defyne can be used off - label for the lips, but it is mainly intended for treating deep wrinkles in the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and for chin augmentation.

The Restylane Defyne Procedure

Pre - Procedure Consultation

Before undergoing a Restylane Defyne treatment, it is essential to have a consultation with a qualified medical professional. At this consultation, the doctor will evaluate your facial structure, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine if Restylane Defyne is the best option for you. For example, Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery in New York City evaluates patients' facial structures to ensure the treatment aligns with their goals. They will also review your medical history, including any allergies, medications you are taking, and past cosmetic procedures. If you are taking blood thinners like aspirin, vitamin E, fish oil, or alcohol, you may be advised to stop taking them about a week before the treatment to reduce the risk of bruising.

The Injection Process

The actual injection process of Restylane Defyne is relatively quick and straightforward. A topical numbing cream may be applied to the treatment area to prevent discomfort, although each syringe of Restylane Defyne already contains lidocaine, a local anesthetic. A fine - gauge needle is then used to inject the gel under the skin in targeted areas. The doctor will carefully mold and shape the filler to achieve the desired contour and fullness. The entire procedure can take anywhere from 15 - 30 minutes, depending on the area being treated and the amount of filler used. For instance, if it's just for nasolabial folds, it may be on the shorter end of the time spectrum, while chin augmentation might take a bit longer.

Post - Procedure Care

After receiving Restylane Defyne injections, there is generally no downtime required. However, you may experience some mild side effects such as slight redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. These symptoms are typically mild and resolve within a few days. To minimize swelling and optimize results, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, excessive sun or heat exposure, and putting pressure on the treatment area for the first 24 hours after treatment. They should also follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by their doctor. As mentioned on Dr. Michele Green's website, avoiding direct sun exposure and extreme heat like saunas, hot showers, and hot tubs in the 24 hours following treatment is important to avoid interfering with the gel setting process.

Effectiveness and Longevity of Restylane Defyne

Immediate and Long - Term Results

Many patients notice immediate results of replenished, youthful skin following their Restylane Defyne treatment. As the hyaluronic acid gel is injected into the treatment area, it fills fine lines and wrinkles, hydrates the skin, and restores lost volume. However, the full effects of the treatment usually become visible four to six weeks after the injections are performed. This is because the dermal filler also triggers the body's natural collagen production, and it takes some time for these effects to fully manifest.

In terms of longevity, during clinical trials, the results of Restylane Defyne lasted up to 12 months in over 65% of patients, and over 70% of patients continued to see results after 6 months. The duration can vary depending on individual factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and the area treated. For example, when used in the lips, Restylane Defyne typically lasts six months to a year. If the treatment is for marionette lines, it can provide revitalization for up to a full year in most patients.

Ways to Prolong the Results

To make the results of Restylane Defyne last longer, patients can adopt certain habits. Adhering to a regular skin care routine and practicing strict sun avoidance is crucial. Staying out of the sun when the UV rays are most intense (usually between 10 am and 2 pm) and wearing sunscreen of at least SPF 30 if you have to be outside can help protect the skin and prevent the filler from breaking down more quickly. Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated are also important. Additionally, limiting excessive exercise can be beneficial, as a high metabolism can break down the filler faster. Once the results start to fade, patients can schedule a touch - up treatment with their doctor.

Candidates for Restylane Defyne

A good candidate for Restylane Defyne is someone who has moderate - to - severe facial wrinkles and folds or is interested in chin augmentation. They should be above the age of 21, as this is the age requirement for receiving Restylane dermal fillers. However, there are some contraindications. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a history of severe allergies (anaphylaxis) to lidocaine or gram - positive bacterial proteins, have a bleeding disorder, or take medications that affect bleeding and clotting (such as aspirin, warfarin) may not be suitable candidates. It is essential for these patients to discuss their medical history with a doctor before considering Restylane Defyne treatment.

Side Effects and Safety of Restylane Defyne

Common Side Effects

Side effects from Restylane Defyne are typically minimal and mild. Some patients may experience redness, bruising, swelling, pain, or tenderness at or near the injection site. These are common side effects among all injectable treatments, including neurotoxin treatments like Botox and Dysport. These symptoms usually resolve within a week. In rare cases, more severe side effects can occur, but these are more likely to happen with an inexperienced injector. For example, injecting directly into a blood vessel can put a patient at risk for infection or blindness. That's why it's crucial to seek treatment from a board - certified medical professional.

Ensuring Safety

To ensure safety, patients should always choose a qualified and experienced injector. Doctors like Dr. Michele Green, Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman, and Dr. Maurice Khosh in New York City are board - certified and have extensive experience in administering Restylane Defyne injections. They use a "less is more" approach, which helps in honoring natural expression while providing a rejuvenating glow to the patients. Before the treatment, they also thoroughly evaluate the patient's medical history to rule out any potential risks.

Cost of Restylane Defyne

The cost of Restylane Defyne can vary widely depending on several factors. According to data from the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the average cost of Restylane dermal fillers is $800 to $1500 per syringe. The number of syringes necessary for treatment depends on the severity of wrinkles and creases in the treatment area and the patient's aesthetic goals. For example, a patient looking to treat only nasolabial folds may require fewer syringes compared to someone also undergoing chin augmentation.

The geographic location and the type of institution where you receive the treatment also play a role. Medical spas may offer lower - cost treatments due to specials, but the risk of more severe side effects is higher. Seeking treatment from a board - certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon may be more costly, but it offers a higher quality of care. At Dr. Michele Green's office, the specific cost of the treatment will depend on the size and scope of the treatment area. During the initial consultation, the doctor will work with the patient to develop a treatment plan that balances the patient's budget and desires.

New York City Hospital Ranking for Restylane Defyne

When it comes to finding the best places in New York City for Restylane Defyne treatments, several hospitals and clinics stand out. RealSelf lists numerous doctors and clinics in Manhattan that offer Restylane Defyne treatments. Some of the highly - rated doctors include:

• Adelle Quintana, MD: A dermatologic surgeon, board - certified in dermatology. She has 41 reviews, and patients report a very good experience with excellent results. She accepts virtual consultations and is located at 130 W. 42nd St., Ste. 1900, New York, New York.
• Michael Dobryansky, MD, FACS: A board - certified plastic surgeon with 213 reviews. He offers gender - affirming care and accepts virtual consultations. His office is at 1111 Park Ave., New York, New York. Patients have reported great satisfaction, like a 52 - year - old woman who now looks and feels like 40 after his treatment.
• Brett S. Kotlus, MD, MS, FACS: An oculoplastic surgeon, board - certified in ophthalmology. He has 188 reviews, and patients appreciate his promptness, friendly attitude, and honest assessment. He does not push products. His office is at 20 E. 66th St., Ste. 1A, New York, New York.

It's important to note that while these rankings can give you an idea of the quality of service, you should also consider factors such as your personal comfort with the doctor, the doctor's experience in administering Restylane Defyne, and the overall atmosphere of the clinic.

Conclusion

Restylane Defyne is a revolutionary dermal filler that offers a non - surgical solution for those looking to reduce the appearance of moderate - to - severe facial wrinkles and folds and enhance the chin area. Its unique cross - linking technology allows for natural - looking results and the ability to maintain natural facial expressions. The treatment is relatively quick, has minimal downtime, and the results can last up to a year. However, it's crucial to choose a qualified and experienced injector to ensure safety and the best possible results.

If you're considering Restylane Defyne treatment in New York City, take the time to research different doctors and clinics, read patient reviews, and schedule consultations. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and achieve the youthful and refreshed appearance you desire. Don't hesitate to take the next step in your aesthetic journey and contact a reputable provider to schedule a consultation today!