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Removal of Restylane?

How long after application can restylane be removed by a method other than using hyaluronadaise? My body thinks its toxic and I have been very ill after it was administered 2 weeks ago. I have read on real self that one MD has removed it by using a large bore needle and squeezing it out. Does it's composition alter in time so that it is impossible to remove this way? also could it be removed by using a fine needle? I would be grateful for your help.

Doctor Answers 6

Removal of Restylane

August 27th, 2012
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It would be extremely rare for you to be having a toxic reaction to Restylane so before you try to have it removed, please see your internist to make sure there is nothing else going on such as an unrelated flu-like illness.  If you still wish to have your Restylane removed, the best way is to use Hyaluronidase.  If you can see your Restylane and it is extremely superficial, your injector should be able to nick the surface of the skin and gently squeeze out some of the material.  However, please see your internist just to be safe.

Sheri G. Feldman, MD


Beverly Hills Dermatologist
5.0 out of 5 stars 1 review

Illness from Restylane or Jeuvederm - highly unlikely

January 20th, 2014
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As Restylane and Juvederm are hyaluroinc acid, which is the same thing your body makes it would be highly unlikely that you are having a toxic reaction to the product. I would see your primary care doctor to rule out other causes of your illness.

Web reference: https://pacificcenterplasticsurgery.com/procedures/injectables/perlane-restylane/

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS

Restylane and removal

January 2nd, 2013
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I would thoroughly discuss your concerns with your provider first, before considering removal using something other than hyaluronidase. Restylane doesn't cause toxic reactions. Hyaluronidase is a safe and effective way to remove the product.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS
Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.8 out of 5 stars 206 reviews

Restylane can be removed through hyaluronidase injections

September 30th, 2012
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I have been injecting Restylane for years and have never known anyone able to squeeze out Restylane.  It is a dermal injection and the only way I know to remove it is with injections on hyaluronidase.  I would go to my general internist for a complete physical because your symptoms are serious and not typical of Resylane or any other cosmetic injection.

Michele S. Green, MD

Michele S. Green, MD
New York Dermatologist
5.0 out of 5 stars 60 reviews

Hyaluronic based product do not caise allergic reaction

August 27th, 2012
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If you have problems post injection like swelling, pain and discomfort, you need to see your doctor to make sure it is not infected. The best method to remove the Hyaluronic acid is to use hyaluronidaze. the need aspiration is risky and not effective.

Kamran Khoobehi, MD

Kamran Khoobehi, MD
New Orleans Plastic Surgeon
4.7 out of 5 stars 110 reviews

Restylane removal

August 27th, 2012
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Restylane injections for facial wrinkle correction rarely, if ever, cause the symptoms you describe.  In fact, Restylane is a hyaluronic acid that is naturally found in your body.  In all likelihood you have something coincidental going on and if it persists I recommend that you see your primary care provider to get a diagnosis.  If ultimately, you do need the Restylane removed, then injections with the enzyme hyaluronidase are the recommended method of removal and not trying to remove it any other way.

Good luck

Brian Windle, MD

Brian Windle, MD
Kirkland Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 48 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.