A Clinical Overview of Temporary Injectable Fillers (Collagen, Restylane, Perlane & Hylaform)

Temporary injectable fillers like collagen are widely used for cosmetic enhancement.  Collagen itself is in fact used for many purposes, though its use is declining.  Since it is bovine derived, meaning that it comes from cows there is a slight risk of transmission of prion disease, and some people have allergic reactions to it.  Also many alternative fillers are now readily available, one of them being the patient’s own fact removed from elsewhere in the body. Some of the alternatives in common use include Restylane, Perlane and Hylaform. All of these products have their uses and are gaining in popularity.

HYLAFORM
Hylaform is a clear, transparent gel made from avian hyaluronic acid, developed by the Genzyme Corporation and distributed by Inamed.  It comes from rooster combs and provides both moisture and elasticity in the skin.  It is beloved that the hyaluronan in the human body breaks down eventually and causes dry, winked and aged skin.  A clear, transparent gel, it contains no pain reliever so many patents request a local anesthetic or regional block.

RESTYLANE
Restylane is a non-animal product created by Q-Med Laboratories, a Swedish company and one of the prime ingredients, hyaluronic acid, occurs naturally in the human body which means that no pre-test is required.  It is injected into the lips as well as wrinkles and provides the desired augmentation effect.  Working with the body’s natural hyaluronic acid, it lasts much longer than collagen.  Different grades vary in their concentration.  Restylane comes prepackaged in sterilized syringes.  It is recommended for wrinkles, lips – giving that pouty look – and is available in a product with smaller particles resaved for fine lines called Restylane Fine Line.

PERLANE
Perlane is also a non-animal hyaluronic acid from Q-Med Laboratories.  It is a clear gel and is designed for injection into deep folds and wrinkles, in addition to facial contouring such as the cheeks.  It can be used as well in the lips, providing augmentation and the pouty lip effect.  Many professionals believe that Perlane should be used in the fleshy part of the lip and Restylane in the borders.  One injected Perlane works with the body’s natural hyaluronic acid and lasts longer than collagen.  Perlane comes prepackaged in a sterilized syringe and is recommended for folds such as nasolabial folds, shaping facial contours such as the cheek and the chin.  It is very similar to its sister product, Restylane.