Collagen

Collagen injections may help erase frown lines, "crow's feet" and nasolabial folds or smile lines. Collagen injections have been around for a while, but have decreased in popularity with the introduction of soft tissue fillers such Restylane, which can last longer.

Collagen is the main protein found in connective tissue. It supports the skin, bone, cartilage and blood vessels. Collagen composes up to 80 percent of the skin. Its role is to maintain the skin's integrity, but collagen breaks down with advancing age. The breakdown of collagen during the aging process can lead to wrinkles, lines and folds. Collagen injections replenish the skin's natural collagen.

Optimal candidates for collagen injections are typically between the ages of 35 and 60 with frown lines, "crow's feet" and nasolabial folds or smile lines.

People who should not receive collagen injections include those who are pregnant or nursing, people with allergies to cow products or lidocaine, or those with certain medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases.

 

The Procedure

You often  do require a skin test prior to the first treatment because of the risk of allergic reaction in some people.

Collagen injections are typically performed in the doctor's office. They are most often performed without anaesthesia, although the collagen filler itself contains lidocaine, which is a local anaesthetic. Collagen is injected with a tiny needle into the skin depressions. Several injections may be needed, depending on the length and depth of the wrinkle. The procedure takes less than an hour.

The points of injection are "scored" by the doctor with a pencil. Your doctor may select numerous injection points for each location slated for treatment. Antiseptic is also applied. Your doctor will then decide on the correct amount of collagen to be used. The collagen filler is injected into the marked points beneath the skin.

 

Recovery

You may experience some minimal discomfort from the collagen injection. There may be some swelling and bruising, which typically subsides within 48 hours. The treated area may look red for the first 24 hours, and this may last up to a week.

You can go home shortly after the procedure. The results are immediate and become fully evident within one week. In some cases, the treated area may appear to be overfilled initially. However, this will dissipate soon after to produce a more natural-looking appearance. Results may be unpredictable, lasting from two to three months.

You can resume normal activities immediately; however, it is advisable to stay out of the sun. Tell your doctor about any unmanageable pain or symptoms that are progressive or abnormal.
 

Risks

Complications from collagen fillers are typically minimal. Some possible complications include uneven texture of the skin, an allergic reaction, infection, abscess and scarring.