Collagen Injections

Collagen injections have been used for decades to treat minor imperfections in facial skin, including laugh lines, wrinkles, creases, crow’s feet, and acne scars. Collagen is also used to create fuller lips and cheeks and can be used to treat areas of the chest, back, and neck. However, facial collagen injections are by far the most common. In many cases, collagen treatment is combined with other procedures such as a face lift or laser skin resurfacing. Although collagen injections are safe, quick, and easy to administer, it is important to seek treatment from a qualified cosmetic surgeon who can discuss all of the available treatment options with you.

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is a natural protein found in bone, cartilage, skin, and tendons; there are 27 different types of naturally occurring collagens in the body. Certain collagens found in skin tissue are essential for skin strength and elasticity. Over time, this collagen breaks down, causing skin to lose its suppleness and begin to wrinkle and sag. In an effort to fight these signs of aging, many people turn to collagen injections to replace their original supply. Since it is a natural protein, there are relatively few side effects associated with its use in cosmetic procedures.

Candidates for Collagen Treatment

Most people opting for collagen treatment are 35 to 60 years old and would like to minimize early signs of aging such as faint or moderate smile and frown lines. Collagen injection treatment can also be used to achieve fuller, more voluptuous lips, as well as to touch up areas around the mouth and forehead where wrinkles have begun to reappear after previous cosmetic procedures. Older patients may also benefit from collagen injections, although ideal collagen candidates have skin that is still relatively flexible.

Collagen Cost and Financing Information

Compared to more invasive surgical procedures, the cost of collagen injections is quite low, making it an economical as well as convenient way to smooth wrinkles. The procedure takes very little time – usually between 30 and 60 minutes - and patients are able to return home immediately following their collagen treatment. These factors contribute to the low cost of the procedure.

Types of Collagen Fillers

There are two main types of collagen fillers used in cosmetic procedures, bovine- and human-based fillers. Since some people are allergic to products derived from cows, patients should verify with their doctor that bovine-derived collagen (the most common) is suitable for them prior to treatment.

The Collagen Treatment Process

The actual collagen injection procedure is relatively straightforward. Treatment typically occurs at the doctor’s office and usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. On the basis of each patient’s cosmetic needs, doctors place collagen injections in areas that will optimize the elimination of wrinkles and facial lines. Within a couple of days, patients usually begin to see noticeable improvements in their appearance, and any puffiness or bruising resulting from treatment disappears.

Collagen Injection FAQs

Many people are unaware of all that collagen injections have to offer. In addition to producing fuller lips, they can minimize or even eliminate wrinkles in the forehead area, crow’s feet around the eyes, laugh and frown lines, certain scars, and many other cosmetic defects. If you are relatively young and beginning to experience any of these issues, collagen treatment may help. To learn more, review DocShop’s frequently asked questions regarding collagen.

Risks and Benefits of Collagen Injections

Facial collagen injections are a safe and effective way to achieve shapely lips and smoother, less wrinkled skin. However, patients should be aware that the treatment does involve possible risks and complications, including allergic reactions, uneven skin tone around the treatment area, and infection. As with any cosmetic procedure, patients should have a thorough understanding of the risks and benefits of collagen treatment before deciding to undergo the procedure.

DocShop Can Help You Locate a Doctor in Your Area

The decision of whether to have collagen injections should be made after consultation with a qualified dermatologist who can assess your physical condition and advise you on the specific collagen treatment that will help you achieve optimal results. Locate an experienced dermatologist in your area today to find out more about collagen injection treatment and cost.