Your face is your calling card to the world, opening doors wherever you go. It’s also one of the first places that will start to show signs of aging. Damage from the sun, wrinkles, and a loss of fullness are par for the course as time passes. You may feel like your skin has faded, losing its healthy glow that was a part of youth. When you look older, it can make you feel older. Collagen injection therapy is one way that you can stave off the passage of time through a simple, non-invasive procedure.
What are Collagen Injections?
Collagen injections are a type of dermal filler that is taken from animals or humans. These injections contain collagen, a natural substance in your body that provides support for your skin. It is also essential for healthy cells, cartilage, blood vessels, your bones, and your teeth. Think of it as a foundation. When injected into your skin, collagen injections add volume and rejuvenate your skin.
What is involved in Collagen Injections?
If you are considering collagen injections, the first step may be an allergy test to ensure you will not have a reaction. It all depends on what type of collagen injection your plastic surgeon is going to use. Once you are cleared for treatment, you will need to discuss your goals with your surgeon. Your doctor will form a plan of action, targeting specified areas of your face. The most commonly treated areas are around the mouth, the folds on the side of the nose, the forehead, between the eyes, and around the eyes.
Your skin will be cleansed prior to treatment with an antibacterial cleanser. You can expect a local anesthesia. Most often, a topical anesthesia is used. Your collagen injections may include anesthesia as well. You’ll be done in a matter of minutes. Ice may be applied after the procedure to ensure your comfort. You may have some swelling and redness for the first day after treatment. Otherwise, discomfort is minimal and your results should last up to three months.
What Kind of Results Can I Expect?
After treatment, you will see noticeable results. You’ll be able to see a reduction in the appearance of lines on your face, and you will have a new fullness in areas that loss volume. Collagen can also plump up your lips and improve the appearance of scars or skin that has been damaged by the sun.
Am I a Candidate for Collagen Injections?
Collagen injections are recommended for patients between the ages of 30 and 60. It’s important that your skin is still flexible. Collagen injections are not recommended if you are pregnant, if you are allergic to the products used in the injections, or you suffer from severe allergies. If you have a skin condition or an autoimmune disorder, collagen injections could be harmful to your health and are not recommended. Contact Dr. Steven Warnock to set up a consultation. We’ll discuss the possibility of collagen injections and if they are the right approach for you.