The Collagen Treatment Process

Collagen treatment is one of the quickest and most effective cosmetic enhancements available. In less than 15 minutes, you can dramatically reduce signs of aging, or have fuller, more sensuous lips. Below we have provided an outline of the treatment process to help you decide if collagen treatment is a good cosmetic option for you.

Preparing for Collagen Treatment

Prior to collagen treatment, the patient is first given a skin test to detect for a possible allergic reaction to the collagen material. The physician injects a small amount of collagen into an inconspicuous location on the patient's body, and the patient monitors the area for about a week. About 97 percent of patients show no allergic reaction. Whether or not an allergic reaction occurs will help determine the type of collagen used during treatment.

The Collagen Injection Process

Collagen treatment involves one or more injections of collagen into a specific area. Some patients find the injections slightly uncomfortable; especially injections performed on the lips or around the nose. A topical anesthetic can be applied to the injection area to minimize pain. Some types of collagen contain a small amount of lidocaine, which also helps to numb the injection area. Most treatments take less than an hour and can be accomplished during a lunch break.

Following Collagen Treatment – What to Expect

Immediately after the treatment there may be some temporary bruising, puffiness, or tenderness around the injection site. This is normal and gradually subsides in a few days. Patients can resume their day-to-day activities almost immediately following treatment. The longevity of a collagen treatment varies, lasting anywhere from six weeks to six months or more. Over time, the body will naturally absorb the collagen, and additional treatments will be necessary to maintain the aesthetic enhancement.

Maintaining Results

Maintaining results from collagen treatment largely depends on the types of collagen fillers used. Bovine collagen treatment results typically last around six to twelve weeks; Autologen and Isolagen collagen treatments are generally performed in intervals for steady aesthetic improvement, with results ultimately lasting several months in many cases. The results of initial Dermalogen collagen treatments typically dissipate after several months.

Most collagen treatments require "touch up" injections two to four times a year to maintain results.

Locate a Cosmetic Dermatologist Near You

The collagen treatment process is fast, quick-to-heal, and provides almost immediate results as it fills lines and wrinkles. To learn if you are a good candidate for collagen treatment, contact a dermatologist near you through the DocShop website, a comprehensive resource that can help you find a doctor in your area for your cosmetic and dermatological needs.