Can't smile after restylane 3 weeks ago (photos)

Question

I had restylane injections 3 weeks ago. 2 or 3 days later I couldn't raise my upper lip. When I smile my upper lip stays even with the bottom of my teeth. I can purse my mouth, etc. but not able to "lift" my upper lip. I had hyaluronidase injections on day 4, no improvement. Acts like a botox reaction because took 2 days to happen. MD says it was absolutely restylane. I should note that after the hyaluronidase all of my "old" filler was dissolved...e.g., return of upper lip lines. Help

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Laura,Sorry to hear about your adverse effect from your treatment.  The effect that you are having is consistant with Botox, not Restylane.   There is not any other explanation for the adverse event.  Hopefully your muscle action in your upper lip returns very soon.  Good luck and be well.Dr. P

Sheryl D. Clark, MD, FAAD · Answer

If the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi is injected with Botox, Xeomin, or Dysport, the upper lip will become more difficult to lift.  This muscle is a long band that passes from the upper cutaneous lip to the sides of the nose, and it lifts the lip when we smile. It is often treated when a patient has a "gummy smile"  (think Julia Roberts).Restylane injected in the upper lip should not prevent the lip from lifting, unless it was mixed with Botox.If this is a Botox effect, the duration (which is dependent upon the dose, the degree to which the muscles are used, and the size of the muscles injected) should be 3 to 4 months.

Steven Hacker, MD · Answer

Since this is not a normal response I would suggest that you discuss with your surgeon. I would recommend you discuss with a Board Certified Dermatologist with expertise with Restylane.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Sounds like you might have "over reacted" Over a 2 to 3 weeks time the HA filler injections settle. To aggressively have a dissolver placed so early after the injection could also cause issues...

Can't smile after restylane 3 weeks ago (photos)

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Answer: Can't smile after restylane 3 weeks ago

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Can't smile after restylane 3 weeks ago (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Can't smile after restylane 3 weeks ago

Answer: Can't smile after restylane 3 weeks ago

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Everything you need to know about Restylane

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