Description
Collagen injections, which are made of a natural-occurring protein that provides support to the skin, joints, bones, and ligaments, can help improve visible signs of aging. This soft-tissue filler can help to restore a smoother, more youthful-looking appearance by filling in lines and creases with tiny injections.
Length
15 minutes to 1 hour per session.
Side Effects
Minor discomfort, stinging or throbbing in the injected area. Possibility of slight bruising and swelling.
Recovery
No downtime and no bandages; patients are able to return to work immediately. Free to eat, drink, and wear makeup with sunblock protection shortly thereafter.
Risks
Allergic reaction is the primary risk associated with collagen injections, including signs of redness, itching, or swelling. Conditions of infection, abscesses, open sores, skin peeling, scarring and lumpiness not related to allergies are rare.
Results
Variable; longevity of collagen injections depend on patient’s lifestyle, physical characteristics, and the part of the body treated. Collagen will disappear faster in areas that are directly affected by muscles movement. A doctor can help you determine how long to go between treatments to best maintain results.
Technology
This substance is made from purified bovine collagen; therefore a skin test for allergies is required before collagen injections. Collagen is injected using a fine needle inserted at several points along the edge of the treatment site, typically used to fill wrinkles, lines and scars on the face and sometimes the neck, back and chest. The doctor will slightly overfill the area, because part of the substance is water and the body will reabsorb it within a few days.
Patient Status
Outpatient -
Anesthesia
None