How many days of recovery time can I expect with Restylane? Can I have it done in the morning and go to work without anyone really noticing?
Most of our Restylane patients can return to work the same day of injection. The amount of swelling varies from patient to patient and also depends on the area being treated. Lips are the most sensitive and could experience a little more swelling and some possible bruising. Rule of thumb, try to avoid all anti-inflammatories the week prior to injecting.
The downtime form Restylane in my practice is next to nothing. Most patients come in, have the procedure and go back to work. There is often some swelling and there may be mild bruising, but that is really it. One way to limit bruising is by avoiding any medication that causes the blood to not clot properly ( aspirin, anti-inflammatories, to name a few). Ice after the procedure can help too.
To monarchbutterfly,
Typically, there is a little bruising following Restylane which lasts for a day or two and is easily covered with makeup. We apply ice after the injection to minimize bruising. Also, you will have even less bruising if you don't take aspirin or other anti-inflammatories.
But very rarely, there will be more noticeable bruising which I have seen last up to 5 days.
This is a good question. Ideally, you will not have any bruising or swelling. However, realistically, most people have mild swelling and about 1/3 of people develop very mild bruising. You probably should not return to work the same day, but you will likely be fine to go back the next day. If you are worried, have the procedure on a Friday and you will be fine by Monday for work. Good Luck.
David Shafer, MD
Restylane is an excellent filler that injected into the deep dermal layers. Swelling is usually minimal and bruising is always a risk.
The bruising if evident can be camouflaged with make-up and the swelling is what we are trying to do with a filler - swell a depression or wrinkle.
Go to work the following day and enjoy your new face.
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