The Fern Pattern Technique

There is something new under the sun! A physician from the Netherlands, Dr. Tom van Eijk, has developed a new technique for injecting Restylane: the "Fern Pattern Technique." This results in Restylane being injected higher in the skin in multiple tiny injections. The Restylane stiffens the skin in the area, and keeps the crease from folding when the skin is moved, as in smiling.

The advantages of the Fern Pattern Technique:

1. The skin folds and creases are less visible -- especially with facial motion -- compared to the standard pattern of Restylane injection.
2. There is less product used per area, so a single syringe of Restylane can be used to treat areas that previously required almost two full syringes of material.
3. The Restylane may last significantly longer when injected using this technique. Dr. van Eijk says his patients return for re-treatment in a year, as compared to the 6-9 month duration of effect that we've come to expect from Restylane.

The disadvantages of the Fern Pattern Technique:

1. The technique requires multiple small punctures, so it is necessary to come in to the office ½ hour before the treatment, so that before photos can be taken and topical anesthetic can be applied. With the anesthetic there is almost no discomfort from the injections.
2. Because of the increased time involved, the cost per syringe is slightly increased, but overall, because of the more efficient use of the filler and the possible increased longevity of the correction, this technique will result in significant cost savings for patients.