Perlane vs. Restylane

Stella Desyatnikova, M.D. answers: Perlane vs. Restylane, what's the difference?

Before i get to the doctors office for my next appointment i want to know why a company called medicis is selling 2 products called "perlane" and "restylane" even though they are the same ingredients according to the website?  i want to get fuller lips and hide wrinkles.  Which injection, restylane or perlane, do I ask for?


Stella Desyatnikova, MD
16 months ago

Perlane and Restylane are similar products, made by the same manufacturer. They consist of the same substance - hyaluronic acid.

The difference is in the particle size, with the Perlane having much larger particles. This in turn translates into the way we inject it: Perlane is usually injected deeper, with a slightly larger needle. Larger particles allow for more volume expansion, so we use it when we need to create more diffuse volume increase with perhaps less finesse. For example, we use it for cheek and chin contouring, correcting deep nasolabial fold defects, or when large volume increase is needed in the lips. Since it is injected in bigger "chunks", it usually lasts longer than Restylane as well.

It can create the appearance of lumpiness if injected into the areas of very thin skin, so we would not use it under the eyes and in similar areas.

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