Q. What is Perlane®?

Perlane® is a cosmetic dermal filler made of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that already exists in the human body. The hyaluronic acid in Perlane® is a crystal-clear gel called NASHA™ or Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid. NASHA is completely biocompatible with human hyaluronic acid which means that Perlane® injections are very safe.

Q. What areas and problems can be treated with Perlane?

Perlane® can be used to fill the nasolabial folds (the crease between the corner of the nose and the corner of the mouth). Perlane® can also be used off label to enhance the size or shape of the lips.

Q. How long do the results of Perlane® treatments last?

Improvements with Perlane® last about 6 months, sometimes longer. Because lips move so much (talking, eating, drinking, kissing etc) lip enhancements with Perlane® generally don't last quite as long.

Q. What kind of side effects can I get from Perlane® injections?

Perlane® injections, just like any other injection, can cause some bruising and swelling. The swelling and bruising usually lasts for a few days. We have some special techniques that we use to minimize the swelling and bruising associated with Perlane® injections. More serious side effects such are possible but very rare.

Q. Can I get a discount if I need less than the whole syringe of Perlane®?

Perlane® comes in 1 cc tubes or syringes. Unfortunately, there is no safe way to "give" your unused Perlane® to anyone else. If we know in advance that you only need a very small amount of Perlane®, we can order a special "touch up" syringe of Perlane® which is smaller and costs less.

Q. Can Perlane® be used in place of Botox®?

Perlane® is intened to be used in the lower face. Botox is intended to be used in the upper face. Although there are exceptions, it is usually not a good idea to try to use Perlane® in the upper face, especially in the area between the eyebrows.

Q. Do I need to do anything differently before I get injected with Perlane®?

Perlane® requires no pretesting, but you should take a few precautions before being treated. Avoid using St. John's Wort, high doses of Vitamin E supplements, aspirin, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen prior to treatment with Perlane, because these may increase bruising or bleeding at the injection site. Also, if you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, discuss this with your physician. He or she may consider prescribing a medication to minimize recurrence.