Restylane Refyne and Defyne technique is at the forefront of advanced facial rejuvenation in modern aesthetic medicine. As the demand grows for natural-looking results that preserve facial expression and movement, these two innovative dermal fillers—developed by Galderma using XpresHAn Technology™—have become essential tools for aesthetic professionals.
Both Restylane Refyne and Defyne are hyaluronic acid–based fillers designed to treat dynamic facial areas, such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines, without compromising natural expressiveness. Their flexibility, smooth integration into tissue, and durable results make them ideal for treating patients seeking subtle yet effective enhancements.
This comprehensive clinical guide explores the Restylane Refyne and Defyne technique in depth, covering the underlying science, ideal patient selection, precise injection approaches, anatomical considerations, post-care recommendations, and comparisons with similar products. By following this evidence-based protocol, aesthetic practitioners can ensure reproducible outcomes and high patient satisfaction.
Chapter 1: Why Choose Restylane Refyne and Defyne?
Clinical Advantages:
- High flexibility and tissue integration
- Natural movement with facial expressions
- Long-lasting results (up to 12 months or more)
- High patient satisfaction in dynamic areas
Differences Between Refyne and Defyne:
Product | Indication | G’ (firmness) | Recommended Depth |
---|---|---|---|
Restylane Refyne | Moderate wrinkles (nasolabial folds, marionette lines) | Medium | Mid to deep dermis |
Restylane Defyne | Deep wrinkles and volume loss | High | Deep dermis / subcutis |
Chapter 2: XpresHAn Technology and Composition
Both fillers use stabilized hyaluronic acid with 0.3% lidocaine for patient comfort. The XpresHAn Technology™ crosslinks HA in a way that allows flexibility and elasticity, ideal for dynamic facial areas.
Key Benefits:
- Maintains soft tissue mobility
- Low risk of lump formation
- Balanced elasticity and support
Chapter 3: Ideal Patient Profile and Evaluation
Patient Assessment Checklist:
- Age 30+
- Dynamic expression lines (nasolabial, marionette)
- No history of autoimmune disease
- No pregnancy or active skin conditions
Consultation Focus:
- Assess animation and volume loss
- Set realistic expectations
- Discuss potential combination with other treatments (e.g., toxin)
Chapter 4: Injection Techniques
Restylane Refyne:
- Linear threading with 30G needle
- Fanning for wider wrinkles
- Suitable for mid-dermis depth
Restylane Defyne:
- Deep bolus or linear retrograde in deep dermis or subcutis
- 27G or 25G needle/cannula
- Avoid superficial placement to prevent Tyndall effect
Injection Volumes:
- 0.5 to 1.5 ml per side depending on indication
Chapter 5: Safety and Aftercare
Patient Instructions:
- Avoid makeup, alcohol, and vigorous activity for 24-48h
- Intermittent ice application
- Follow-up at 2 weeks
Potential Side Effects:
- Mild swelling or bruising
- Temporary tenderness
- Rare risk of vascular compromise (inject slowly, aspirate)
Chapter 6: Comparison Table
Feature | Restylane Refyne | Restylane Defyne | Juvederm Ultra | Belotero Intense |
Elasticity | High | Moderate | Low | Low |
G’ Value (Firmness) | Medium | High | Medium | Medium |
Best Area | Moderate wrinkles | Deep folds / volume | Moderate wrinkles | Fine lines |
Duration | 9–12 months | 12+ months | 6–9 months | 6 months |
Chapter 7: Clinical Case Example
Patient: Female, 42, nasolabial folds and marionette lines
Treatment:
- 1 ml Refyne for nasolabial
- 1 ml Defyne for marionette support
- Linear threading + fanning
Outcome:
- Harmonized contour
- Natural expression
- High satisfaction and minimal downtime

Restylane Refyne and Defyne are outstanding choices for dynamic wrinkle correction and facial support with natural expressiveness. Their tailored elasticity and integration capacity allow for sophisticated results in expert hands.
Discover certified original Restylane products at GlowHealth’s professional store:
https://glowhealth.eu/product-category/brands
Official References for Restylane Refyne and Defyne
- Galderma – Official Manufacturer Website
https://www.galderma.com/health-care-professionals/restylane
The main hub for healthcare professionals offering product details, injection techniques, and educational resources.
- Restylane USA – Refyne & Defyne Product Page
https://www.restylaneusa.com/products/refyne-defyne
Official product descriptions with information on indications, XpresHAn Technology, safety, and clinical outcomes.
- PubMed – Clinical Evaluation of XpresHAn Technology
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29337513/
Title: Evaluation of XpresHAn Technology hyaluronic acid dermal fillers in facial wrinkles.
Journal: Dermatologic Surgery, 2018.
- ClinicalTrials.gov – Clinical Study on Restylane Defyne
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02633882
Official U.S. trial registry listing evaluating the safety and efficacy of Restylane Defyne in nasolabial fold correction.
- Aesthetic Surgery Journal – Natural Expression Study
https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/38/suppl_1/S10/4817422