Brand names: Restylane, Hylaform, Perlane, Juvederm, Rofilan Hylan gel, and Captique
Major risk: Hypersensitivity can occur in 1 out of every 2,000 treated patients. There have also been cases of persistent inflammation and noninfected abscesses, which may persist for up to a year, or until the injected material is fully absorbed.
Stability: Benefits can last 3 to 6 months and occasionally for one year, and may sometimes last for up to 18 months.
Restylane, Hylaform, Perlane, Juvederm, Captique, and Rofilan are all different forms of hyaluronic acid (either derived from bacteria or rooster combs) that has been formed so that it can be injected into wrinkles to fill them out. Restylane is probably the most popular filler worldwide, and has practically become a household name when the subject of cosmetic corrective procedures is brought up.
Each of the hyaluronic acid fillers has specific benefits for different parts of the face, but Restylane is the most used and is generally preferred over the others. Aside from their natural origin and rare occurrence of complications, results from these fillers are short-lived, meaning that when complications do occur they resolve in a short period of time.
Hylaform, Perlane, Rofilan, and Restylane have many similarities. The primary difference is in their consistency: Hylaform, Perlane, and Rofilan are viscoelastic gels, which means that they are more viscous and pliable than Restylane. This makes them better for treatment of deeper lines than for superficial wrinkles, where they can feel thick and be visible under the skin. Restylane, on the other hand, is better for treatment of superficial wrinkles.
(Sources: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, December 2008, pages 251-258; Dermatologic Surgery, June 2008, pages S92-S99; Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, November 2007, pages 41S-54S; Dermatologic Therapy, May-June 2006, pages 141-150; and Dermatologic Clinics, April 2005, pages 343-363.)