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Restylane® at Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Dermatology Associates of Ithaca offers Restylane®, a hyaluronic acid dermal filler used to restore volume and soften deeper facial wrinkles caused by aging and loss of elasticity. Treatments are administered by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Josephine McAllister and are customized to each patient’s facial structure and aesthetic goals. Results typically last six months or longer, depending on the area treated and individual response.

What Causes Volume Loss and Deep Wrinkles?

As we age, the skin gradually loses collagen, elasticity, and hyaluronic acid, a substance that helps maintain hydration and volume. This natural process can lead to deeper facial folds, hollowing, and loss of definition, particularly in the mid and lower face. Areas commonly affected include the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, lips, and chin.

How Restylane Works

Restylane is a hyaluronic acid-based filler, a substance naturally found in the body. When injected into targeted areas, it restores volume, smooths deep wrinkles, and enhances facial contours. Because hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, results appear immediately and continue to improve as the filler integrates with the surrounding tissue.

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Treatment Details

Appointments typically take 30 minutes
Makeup is removed and skin is cleansed prior to treatment
Restylane is injected using a fine needle
Local anesthetic is included in the product; additional numbing may be provided if needed
Results are visible immediately
Little to no downtime is required

Common Treatment Areas

Restylane is commonly used to treat:
  • Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
  • Marionette lines
  • Lips
  • Chin and lower face volume loss
Your provider will assess facial anatomy and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Risks & Possible Side Effects

Most patients tolerate Restylane very well. Temporary side effects may include:
  • Mild swelling
  • Bruising
  • Tenderness at injection sites
Uncommon but possible risks include allergic reaction, infection, bluish discoloration at the injection site, scarring, vascular complications, or lumpiness. While most patients achieve noticeable improvement, results cannot be guaranteed.
Facial injections may trigger cold sores. Patients with a history of cold sores should notify their provider prior to treatment so preventative medication can be prescribed.

Contraindications

Restylane is not recommended for patients who:
Are pregnant or nursing
Have active cold sores or skin infections at the treatment site
Have known allergies to bacterial proteins
Have a strong tendency to bruise excessively

Before Your Restylane Treatment

To help minimize bruising:
  • Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, Vitamin E, and alcohol prior to treatment
  • Do not stop prescribed blood thinners unless directed by your physician
  • Remove makeup before your appointment
Please inform your provider of:
  • History of cold sores
  • Medication allergies
  • Current medications
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or prior cosmetic treatments

After Your Restylane Treatment

Avoid strenuous exercise and flying for 24 hours
Cold compresses may be applied to reduce swelling
Small lumps under the skin may be gently massaged if advised by your provider

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a good candidate for Restylane?

Adults with volume loss or deep facial folds who are seeking natural-looking facial rejuvenation may benefit from dermal fillers.

When will I see results?

Results are visible immediately after injection.

How long do results last?

Most treatments last six months or longer, though this varies by treatment area and individual metabolism.

Are fillers permanent?

No. Restylane is a temporary filler that is gradually absorbed by the body.

Is the treatment painful?

Discomfort is typically mild. Restylane contains anesthetic, and additional numbing can be used if needed.
Our Resources - Restylane® Patient Handout

Interested in Restylane?

If you’re considering dermal fillers or would like to discuss whether Restylane is right for you, our experienced dermatology team is happy to help.

What Our Patients Say

4.9
stars rating on Google with 950+ reviews

Karen F.

I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

RJ and MJ Olson

We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

Cathy Robinson

The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

Susan Zeller

As a new patient I greatly appreciated getting an appointment with a few days of submitting my application form instead of a long wait. The staff at the front desk were very pleasant, efficient and helpful in making this happen. The service I received from my doctor was good.

Tom

David M was great in all key areas that were important to me. Skill, bedside manner, updates during the surgery and his summary after the procedure. His nurse was also first rate. Thank you both for all that you did for me. NP Donna has treated me previously at this practice and I echo my comments here for her and the nurses, reception and scheduling employees. Thank you all for a great experience

Jennifer Gemmell

This was the most pleasant doctors appointment I’ve ever experienced. The wait wasn’t too long and there were so many beautiful and interesting things to look at while I was there: beautiful art well presented with identification and background details, fascinating terrariums and other plants, and even an Asian meditation garden. Dr. Macallister was very personable, professional and thorough. I was quite happy with her care. The staff too, were professional and pleasant.

Reece W

Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

Don Wood

Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

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