What is collagen?
Collagen is a protein
that supports the tissues of the human
body. In skin, it contributes to a
healthy, supple appearance. However,
natural collagen is lost over time,
resulting in wrinkles and depressions.
To temporarily counteract these effects,
a treatment has been developed using
an injectable formula made from refined
bovine collagen. This formula is injected
into the skin in order to fill out
areas of uneven texture. Most patients
receive collagen injections to smooth
out wrinkles of the face, including
crow’s feet and smile lines.
However, collagen can also be used
to treat areas on the neck, back,
and chest, including scars.
Who is a candidate
for collagen injections?
Candidates
for collagen injections include those
with features such as:
The procedure is often
inappropriate for correcting extremely
deep facial creases. A more extensive
resurfacing procedure may be recommended
for such features.
In addition, collagen
injections are not typically administered
to patients who have certain medical
conditions. Skin infections or sores
from injury in the area to be treated
are cause for postponement of the
procedure. Collagen injections should
also be avoided by those patients
who are allergic to either bovine
products or the lidocaine anesthetic
that is used in the injection. Other
conditions, such as pregnancy or autoimmune
diseases, can be cause for concern
as well. A qualified cosmetic specialist
can advise the prospective patient
on these issues and more.
How is the procedure
performed?
Collagen injections
are usually performed in a surgical
suite at the surgeon’s office,
though they also may be performed
at a hospital, especially if being
performed in conjunction with other
procedures.
The syringe used to
inject the collagen typically has
the local anesthetic lidocaine mixed
in with the collagen formula. On rare
occasions, the patient and doctor
may agree on an additional anesthetic
or sedative, but this is usually unnecessary.
The patient will feel at most a slight
stinging or burning from the injections.
The surgeon can vary the strength
of the collagen formula depending
on the patient’s needs.
Collagen injections
are administered using a tiny needle.
The solution is injected along the
edges of the treatment area. Since
the formula is usually part saline,
the area will seem swollen. However,
the body absorbs the saline rather
quickly. Additional injections may
be performed on particularly prominent
creases in the skin.
After the procedure
is completed, the patient can resume
almost all normal activities. The
patient may experience minor throbbing
pain, light bruises, and redness or
scabbing at the injection site, though
this should all subside within a day
or two. Any redness, itching, or swelling
that lasts more than a week may be
an allergic reaction, and should be
reported.
More serious effects
of collagen injections can include
reactions to anesthesia, infection,
peeling, or scarring.
Within a few weeks,
the injected collagen breaks up and
the body replaces it with human collagen.
As with the saline, this will eventually
be absorbed by the body, so repeat
injections every three to six months
may be necessary to maintain a youthful
appearance. In some patients, the
effects have been known to last longer.
If you are interested
in collagen injections, you may want
to contact a cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist
for more information.
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