Collagen Injections

Cosmetic Collagen Injections

Collagen has been used since the 1970’s as a dermal filler in cosmetic procedures after searching for alternatives to skin grafting lead researchers to discover the ability to purify bovine collagen for uses in implanting. The definition according to Wikipedia states that collagen is the main protein in the connective tissue of animals and the most abundant protein in mammals, making up 25% of total protein content. As a long fibrous tissue it plays a key role in cartilage, ligaments, bones, teeth, bones and along with keratin, skin support. Its primary function is support cells and tissues.

Injectable collagen is generally derived from young cattle (bovine). Manufacturers use a process of raising the cattle in closed herds to protect them from disease or using hides from donor cattle of closed herds. The collagen is then extracted and purified for use in the injection and filling process.

Bovine collagen is used because of its similarities molecularly to human collagen. It is also very readily available which makes it an attractive product.

In about 5% of cases the client’s body may recognize the collagen product is not their own causing a negative reaction of erythema and swelling.

Even with recent health and safety standards improving many medial physicians have abandoned collagen because of its margin of reaction as well as a risk of disease being passed from animal to human.

Collagen is used to fill deep wrinkles and creases in the skin or add fullness to areas like the lips a client would like to enhance.

Collagen Injection Process:

The injection process will not begin until a complete client consultation is performed by the physician or medical assistant. An allergy test is recommended but not required and should be administered approximately 4 weeks prior to desired appointment date. Once it is determined that the injection will be safe for the client a future appointment will be booked. During the consultation your physician will ask questions regarding medications, allergies, and pregnancy. Individuals allergic to lidocaine, beef or bovine products, which are pregnant or, have any autoimmune disorders are contraindicated to collagen injections.

The day of the injection the client will have the area to be injected cleaned removing all makeup. Because lidocaine is mixed with the collagen to be injected, topical anesthetics are not necessary. Using an ultra fine needle collagen will be injected into areas of the face with multiple injection sites. Following the injections the client may experience some erythema, stinging and swelling which are all normal reactions to the injection. Edema or scabbing of the injection needle points may occur also. Patients can go back to their every day routine immediately including exercise and wearing makeup.

Results of collagen injections last anywhere from 6-12 weeks depending on the area of injection.