Restylane Lyft, part of Galderma’s Restylane range, is a high G’ hyaluronic acid (HA) filler designed for deep facial volumization and lifting. Known for its projection capacity and structural support, it is widely used in cheeks, jawline, chin, and nasolabial folds. Despite its effectiveness, incorrect technique or patient selection can lead to suboptimal outcomes or complications.
This article explores common errors committed by aesthetic practitioners when injecting Restylane Lyft and offers evidence-based strategies to prevent them. Each point is supported by clinical guidelines, technical charts, and references from scientific publications and Galderma documentation.
1. Mistake: Incorrect Patient Selection
Problem: Using Restylane Lyft in patients with thin skin or dynamic areas (e.g., lips or under-eyes) can result in visibility, nodules, or stiffness.
Solution:
- Select patients with moderate-to-severe volume loss in the midface.
- Avoid dynamic areas or use softer fillers (e.g., Restylane Kysse, Refyne).
Reference: Galderma Product Guidelines – Restylane https://www.restylaneusa.com/products/lyft
2. Mistake: Overcorrection or Overfilling
Problem: Injecting large volumes in a single session may cause unnatural contours, pressure-induced edema, or asymmetry.
Solution:
- Use conservative volumes (0.5–1.0 ml per zone).
- Plan touch-ups at 2–3 weeks post-treatment.
- Respect anatomical boundaries and fat compartments.
Table 1: Recommended Volumes by Area
| Area | Recommended Volume | Depth |
|---|---|---|
| Cheeks | 0.5–1.5 ml/side | Supraperiosteal |
| Jawline | 0.5–1.0 ml/side | Subcutaneous/Deep |
| Chin | 0.3–0.8 ml | Deep |
| Nasolabial | 0.3–0.6 ml/side | Mid-dermis/SubQ |
3. Mistake: Superficial Injection of a High G’ Product
Problem: Lyft has high viscoelasticity and is designed for deep tissue support. Injecting it superficially can result in Tyndall effect, lumps, or vascular compression.
Solution:
- Always inject supraperiosteally or deep subcutaneously.
- Use a 25G cannula for safer application.
- Avoid linear threading in superficial dermis.
Technical Diagram: Refer to Galderma’s injection depth chart for Restylane Lyft. https://www.galderma.com
4. Mistake: Inadequate Knowledge of Facial Anatomy
Problem: Injecting without awareness of arteries and fat compartments increases the risk of complications, including vascular occlusion.
Solution:
- Review cadaver-based anatomy regularly.
- Mark vascular danger zones (e.g., angular artery, infraorbital artery).
- Use aspiration and slow injection.
Table 2: High-Risk Zones and Safer Approaches
| Zone | Risk | Recommendation |
| Nasolabial fold | Angular artery | Lateral entry with cannula |
| Infraorbital area | Infraorbital art. | Avoid Lyft; use softer fillers |
| Temple | Superficial artery | Deep bolus with 22G cannula |
5. Mistake: Ignoring Product Rheology
Problem: Practitioners often overlook G’ and gel elasticity, applying all HA fillers similarly.
Solution:
- Recognize Lyft’s high G’ and cohesive gel properties.
- Use it for structure, not hydration.
- Pair with a skinbooster (e.g., Skinvive) if hydration is desired.
Reference: Goodman, GJ. (2019). Understanding rheology of HA fillers. Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum. https://academic.oup.com/asj
6. Mistake: Lack of Layered Technique
Problem: Single-plane injection in multi-depth areas leads to inadequate lift or visible product.
Solution:
- Combine bolus with fanning technique.
- Layer supraperiosteal with superficial subcutaneous for smoother results.
Illustration: Multi-plane injection for midface restoration.
7. Mistake: Poor Post-Treatment Management
Problem: Neglecting aftercare can lead to poor outcomes, bruising, or patient dissatisfaction.
Solution:
- Provide written aftercare instructions.
- Schedule follow-up in 2 weeks.
- Advise on bruising, swelling, and expected results.
8. Mistake: No Emergency Protocol
Problem: Failure to prepare for vascular occlusion can be dangerous.
Solution:
- Keep hyaluronidase in clinic.
- Train staff on emergency response.
- Use protocol by ASDS or Galderma.
Reference: ASDS Vascular Occlusion Protocol – https://www.asds.net
Conclusion: Expertise + Product Mastery = Success
Restylane Lyft is a powerful tool for structural rejuvenation, but only when applied with anatomical precision, appropriate technique, and a strong foundation of knowledge. By avoiding the above mistakes, professionals can ensure consistent, natural-looking, and safe results for their patients.
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