Cosmetic Dermatology: CollagenAging, disease, injury, and sun exposure are some of the factors that can weaken the collagen fibers that give your skin its underlying strength. Below are the most frequently asked questions concerning collagen injections. What is Collagen?Collagen is a natural protein that provides structural support. It is found throughout the body - in skin, muscle, tendon, and bone. Fibers of collagen are woven together like threads in fabric to form a framework into which new cells can grow. In the skin, collagen provides texture, resiliency, and shape. The collagen in human skin is very similar to the collagen found in certain animals. As a result, animal collagen has had many medical applications; for example, animal collagen has been used in sutures for over a century. Heart valves used during surgery are also made of collagen. Injectable Zyderm and Zyplast Collagen Implants are made of collagen from cow skin that has been highly purified. How Do Collagen Creams Differ From Injectable Collagen?Regardless of the ingredients, moisturizers work only on the skin's surface as a temporary cap to help retain water. Zyderm and Zyplast Collagen Implants, however, are medical products that are injected below the skin's surface where contour problems begin and where collagen replacement can help. Does Collagen Take the Place of Surgical Procedures?No. Collagen is not meant for people who have excess facial skin or for those who want a major resurfacing of the skin. Physicians often use collagen in conjunction with surgery to enhance surgical results. What is Involved in Injectable Collagen Treatment?There are three steps:
Your doctor will inject a small amount of collagen into your forearm, just below the skin's surface. Both you and your doctor will watch the area for four weeks for any signs of sensitivity such as redness, swelling, or itching. The majority of test reactions occur within the first three days. At the first sign of any of these problems contact you doctor. 97% of all tested patients can be treated.The Treatment Series can begin after the four-week test observation period if you are not sensitive to the skin test. Most patients see considerable improvement in one to three treatment sessions depending on the size, shape, and texture of the area treated. Treatments are usually two to three weeks apart. Touch-up injections are usually needed to maintain maximum correction. Most patients who choose to receive touch-ups for lines or furrows do so within 3 to 12 months of the original treatment series. Touch-up injections will help you maintain your correction and can provide a long-term solution to skin contour problems. Do the Injections Hurt?Most people report that the injections are relatively painless. However, it does depend on the individual and the areas being treated. Different individuals have different pain thresholds. Around the nose and lips seem to be the most sensitive. Is This Procedure Covered by Insurance?Since this procedure is elective and not medically necessary, it is not covered by insurance. If you desire additional information we welcome you to schedule an appointment for a FREE consultation with our Cosmetic Consultant at (828) 252-3576. We at Dermatology Associates of Asheville, P.A. invite you to inquire about all of our cosmetic procedures and how they can help you to achieve smoother, fresher, younger looking skin. If you are considering Collagen or any of the cosmetic procedures that DAA offers call for a private, complimentary consultation with our Cosmetic Consultant. She can give you a basic understanding of the procedure, when it can help, how it's performed, and what results you can expect. A lot depends on your individual circumstances. |