Restylane in Cheeks. Changed Face Shape.

Sallly Anne

While it is often said that Restylane lasts about a year, in my experience some of the effect of the filler can last much longer.  I have seen it last up to 3 years in some cases.  Please do not wait for it to dissipate.  The greatest thing about Restylane and other hyaluronic acid fillers is that they can be dissolved with an enzyme called Hyaluronidase.  Experienced injectors maintain this product in their office for adjusting treatments.  I see a couple of new consults each week who have had these fillers in the past and for various reasons are unhappy with the treatment results and need this product removed.  Please find an injector who can help you with this.  Note that it is not always necessary to have everything removed.  Many times just a small adjustment can make a very big difference.  

Around one year is the point that most of the hyaluronic acids dissolve. You could have some hyaluronidase injected to dissolve some of the filler you have.

Hi Sally.  The answer to your questions depends on the area of the face because Restylane dissolves at different rates depending on how much movement there is in the area injected.  For example, we set the expectation that for the lips the product will most likely dissolve in 3-4 months.  The midface area including the nasolabial folds (smile lines) and cheeks typically lasts about 6 months and the undereye area typically lasts about 9-12 months.  

If you were injected in the midface area, it usually lasts about 6 months.  If you feel that the product has not dissolved and you do not like the effects you should ask your injector to use hyaluronidase (we use Vitrase), an enzyme that will break down the Restylane and return the face to the same shape as it was previously.  Hope this helps and good luck.