Hydrelle, an injectable dermal filler, is a soft hyaluronic acid (HA) gel. The HA is premixed with the local anesthetic, lidocaine, to keep the patient comfortable during the injection. It contains the highest concentration of HA approved for use in the U.S., plus 0.3% lidocaine.
HA, a form of sugar, is a natural substance in the skin. Hyaluronic acid works as a net to hold the skin’s collagen and elastin together. It creates healthy and hydrated skin by helping the skin retain moisture, improve elasticity, create volume and plump the folds and wrinkles of aging.
Hydrelle Uses
The Hydrelle dermal filler reduces unwanted facial wrinkles, especially moderate to severe lines. It works by attracting water into the skin and filling the treated areas, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles. Hydrelle creates smoother skin and softens wrinkles by adding a natural fullness.
Good Candidates for Hydrelle
People who have used other dermal fillers on deeper facial lines without attaining the desired effect may have better results with Hydrelle injections. Good candidates have moderate to severe facial lines and wrinkles, especially in the nasolabial folds. Some physicians use Hydrelle to treat fine, superficial lines around the mouth or eyes.
The Hydrelle Procedure
A physician specializing in cosmetic or plastic surgery should administer Hydrelle. The procedure takes less than one hour. The basic procedure includes:
- The treated area is cleaned with an antiseptic cleanser
- Ice or a topical anesthetic is typically used to reduce discomfort; some physicians do not use this because Hydrelle contains the lidocaine anesthetic
- Injections are given at various areas pre-marked for treatment
- Takes less than one hour
Lasting Effect of Hydrelle
The improved cosmetic results of a Hydrelle injection can be seen immediately. The results are long lasting. One syringe of the drug delivers good results that can last up to one year.
The Cost of a Hydrelle Treatment
The long lasting effects of Hydrelle require fewer facial injections, which can reduce overall cost of the treatment. About 50 percent less Hydrelle is needed than other dermal fillers. This helps to make the treatment affordable. While the price varies between physicians, the average cost is $400-$600 per session for Hydrelle injections.
Hydrelle injections are considered to be an elective cosmetic procedure so health insurance does not cover the cost.
Danger Zone
Hydrelle is the first U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved hyaluronic acid wrinkle filler containing lidocaine. The FDA considers it to be safe and effective for most patients.
Patients should discuss their medical history with the physician before undergoing an injection. Anyone with sulfite allergies, which include red wine and dried fruit, should not have Hydrelle injections. Patients taking anti-inflammatory medication, blood thinners, or those consuming alcohol or green tea should discuss the use of Hydrelle with their physician as they have an increased chance of bruising.
Hydrelle contains sodium metabisulfite, an antioxidant, and trace amounts of gram-positive bacteria, which can cause some people to have an allergic reaction. It is possible that some patients may have an allergic reaction to the lidocaine contained in Hydrelle.
Hydrelle Side Effects
As with any medical procedure, there is the chance of developing side effects, although rare with Hydrelle. Patients have reported mild to moderate symptoms, which generally disappear in seven days or less, if they do occur:
- Localized infection
- Temporary redness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Itching,
- Firmness, lumps/bumps or nodule at the injection site(s)
Hydrelle Recovery Time
Recovery time is minimal after Hydrelle injections. The temporary redness, swelling, itching and tenderness are usually gone in a day or two. Patients are advised to avoid the following after an injection:
- Drinking alcohol
- Anti-inflammatory drugs for 4 hours
- Skin peels for one week
- Sun and UV exposure
It is important to be evaluated and treated by a qualified healthcare specialist to determine if Hydrelle is the best and safest treatment for an individual's cosmetic needs.
Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.
By Dermanetwork.org Staff
Updated: February, 2014
