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You wake up one morning and look in the mirror. Suddenly, you notice facial lines that just weren't there yesterday.
What can you do?
Facial wrinkles and creases begin to appear as the underlying collagen and elastin fibers begin to break down and wear out. While this breakdown is part of the natural aging process, it can also result from excessive squinting, frowning and smiling. Collagen injections have been one of the top ten cosmetic procedures performed in the United States since they were approved by the FDA in 1981. Injectable collagen is a natural substance derived from purified bovine (cow) collagen and is used to replace the collagen your skin loses over time. Injectable collagen is placed just beneath your skin where your body accepts it as its own. By supplementing your skin's own collagen with injectable collagen, we can smooth out wrinkles and most scars. We can also improve the appearance of deeper frown lines and nasal labial furrows. Collagen injections are a safe, effective, time-tested, non-surgical wrinkle treatment that provides immediate results. However, collagen injections aren't for everyone. A very small percentage of patients are allergic to bovine collagen. If you are considering collagen injections to correct the early signs of aging, you will need to have a simple skin test prior to your treatment.
How are the procedures done?
Collagen injections are sometimes referred to as a "lunchtime" procedure. They are performed on an out-patient basis and usually take less than twenty minutes of your time. Collagen injections are relatively painless,because collagen contains a local anesthetic. It is injected under your skin, beneath the wrinkle, through tiny needles. Several injections may be required, depending on the depth and length of the wrinkle.
What can I expect after my collagen treatments?
Following collagen treatments, normal activities can be resumed immediately. Discomfort is minimal. The treatment site may have a little swelling, which may last a few hours. There may be some slight bruising which can be covered with make-up. Depending on the area treated, correction usually lasts from three to six months. Allergic reactions are rare, but may consist of prolonged redness, itching, and/or firmness at the injection site.
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