Restylane Stimulating Collagen? Is there any truth to this?

There is a general consensus today among aesthetic physicians that early intervention, in the form of the use of injectable fillers and volumizing fillers (such as Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse) and injectable neuromodulators (e.g. Botox, Dysport, Xeomin) may actually retard the aging process.

In the case of the neuromodulators, the primary reason for this is simple. If, through their use, we diminish the hyperactivity of the muscles of facial expression that often comes with aging, we consequently decrease the amount and degree of accordion-like skin folding that results from their activity. The fewer and less intense the muscular contractions in a region, the less the static wrinkling and creasing that results (wrinkles at rest). Repeated treatments with these agents may result in more sustained improvements translating into less wrinkling and skin etching with the passage of time.

The story with fillers and volumizing fillers demonstrates a similar trend. It goes without saying that by lifting wrinkles and restoring volume to sinking areas we are reversing the aging trend toward creasing and sagging. But, it seems that many of the fillers, by physically stretching and elongating surrounding fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen and elastin), stimulate the fibroblasts to produce a greater quantity and improved quality of these important fibers--which may contribute to more prolonged results from treatment. These benefits may be obtained in all treated regions, including those around the eyes.

Hi Baggy,

Yes, studies have shown that hyaluronic acid fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, Belotero) do stimulate collagen production so that even when the filler has disappeared, there is still some benefit and improvement in the treated area. 

Using Restylane for lower eye lid hollows is excellent.  This area does not have much movement so the product lasts much longer than in areas with a great deal of movement.  In some patients the fill can last for years.

The lower eye lid hollow is a delicate and unforgiving area, therefore it is most important to choose your experienced injecting physician most carefully.  Good luck and be well.

Dr. P