Restylane Filler: 6 Things to Know Before You Book, Including How Long It Lasts

Dr. Designer Clinic Yeongdeungpo · Updated 2026-09 · Korean original ↗

"There are so many fillers. What is the difference?" "Restylane has been around for ages. Is it still good?" Fillers differ in ingredient and behaviour, so the names alone are confusing. Here is what Restylane is, why hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved and adjusted, how they differ from collagen stimulators, and who should not have them.

1. What Restylane is

Restylane is a hyaluronic acid (HA) filler and one of the longest-established HA brands in the world. HA exists naturally in our skin, so the material is highly biocompatible. It restores volume where the face has hollowed and softens shallow lines: nasolabial folds, sunken cheeks, lips, chin and temples. It is injection-only with fast recovery, but it is gradually broken down by the body, so it is a treatment that needs maintenance.

2. Why HA fillers can be dissolved

A major advantage of an HA filler is that it can often be dissolved or adjusted with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. If you dislike the shape or a problem occurs, this gives an option, although not every problem can be undone. For a first filler this matters. Restylane also comes in several particle sizes, so a firmer gel can be used for deep volume and a softer one for fine lines and lips.

3. How it differs from Radiesse and Ellansé

The question is the area and the goal. Immediate volume with the option of dissolving points to HA; gradual, natural fullness and firmness point to a collagen stimulator. Some plans use both.

4. How strong is the evidence

HA fillers have decades of published studies and FDA approvals for specific areas including nasolabial folds, lips and cheeks. Common reactions are swelling, bruising and tenderness for a few days. Rare but serious complications, such as vascular occlusion, are why the injector's anatomical knowledge and the availability of hyaluronidase matter more than the brand.

5. What to expect: results, duration, downtime

• Results: immediate; final shape once swelling settles in about two weeks.
• Duration: 9–18 months depending on the area and product; lips shorter, cheeks and chin longer.
• Downtime: swelling 2–3 days, possible bruising up to a week. Lips swell the most.
• Session: 20–30 minutes plus numbing cream. Most syringes contain lidocaine.

6. Who we do not recommend it for

• Pregnant or breastfeeding patients.
• Active infection, cold sores or inflamed acne in the area.
• Permanent filler previously injected in the same area.
• Patients expecting a filler to lift heavy sagging; volume is not a lift.

On the day

• Avoid alcohol for 1–2 days to reduce bruising. Do not stop prescribed medication on your own; tell us in advance about any medication and supplements you take, including fish oil.
• Bring photos of the look you want; we will tell you honestly what filler can and cannot do.
• No pressure or massage on the area for 24 hours; sleep on your back the first night.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Restylane used most?

Nasolabial folds, lips, chin, under-eye hollows and cheeks, each with a different Restylane product.

Does it hurt? Will I bruise?

Numbing cream and lidocaine in the gel reduce the discomfort. Small bruises are possible, especially on the lips.

How long does it last?

Roughly a year on average; lips 6–9 months, chin and cheeks up to 18 months.

What if I do not like the shape?

HA fillers can be adjusted or dissolved with hyaluronidase.

Will it look unnatural?

Not with conservative volumes and the right product for the layer. We would rather add a little more at a review than overfill.

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This guide is general information written by Dr. Designer Clinic Yeongdeungpo and is not a substitute for a consultation. Results, downtime and suitability vary by individual and are decided after an in-person examination by the doctor.