Why Does Restylane Swell So Much More Than Juvederm?

Although both Restylane and Juvederm are different hyaluronic acids I have not noticed any difference in patient response. In my experience swelling and bruising after injections are often related to 1. where the filler is placed, and 2.patient related issues.

1.The closer the filler is placed to the eye, bruising is a possibility, due to the thin skin and multitude of blood vessels.

2. Patients who swell after a treatment should watch their salt intake three days before the procedure, avoid any aspirin, Motrin, baby aspirin, etc for 10-12 days before the treatment. I have rarely prescribed a medrol dose pack prior to a procedure to help reduce swelling in the unusual patient who has a dramatic swelling response to the filler.

I have personally had both Restylane and Juvederm in my lips and also found Restylane swelled more than Juvederm. I had the same injector both times (me!) so it was not due to injector technique. Where I practice in Orange County Juvederm and Restylane lip injections are very popular and I see many patients for this. I have not consistently found a difference in my patients however and very few have mentioned either one being a problem.  A rougher technique, more injection "pokes" and/or a more vigorous massaging of the lips after treatment can also increase swelling.  Also, were your post-treatment instructions different?   If you iced the area after wards or took Arnica Montana, it might have swelled less.  Overall however, after the swelling dissipates, the final result depends on the artistry of who is injecting you more than which hyaluronic acid gel is used.