Collagen Injections

You might have probably seen them. Women flaunting their fuller rack. Celebrities proudly puckering up. Men looking dashingly fine and youthful. And then you wonder why. Perhaps, you might be, or even secretly, hoping to get the look too. And if you really want to know what is filling them, the answer is just simple and no longer kept a secret.

Collagen.

It is what some people, especially celebrities, are raving and ranting about –collagen as a fix to body parts, that need a little filling. But just what really is collagen?

A natural protein found in bones, cartilage and skin, collagen comes in around 27 different types that are naturally occurring in the body. These are essential in maintaining skin strength and elasticity. Certain collagen breaks down over time which, in effect, causes skin to lose its firmness and suppleness thereby encouraging the formation of wrinkles.

Because it does things for the skin, collagen is now being successfully used for cosmetic purposes. Collagen injections, a popular type of procedure, have been used to treat minor facial flaws and imperfections such as acne scars, laugh and frown lines, furrows, crow’s feet and other facial wrinkles. In addition, it is also used to plump up lips, make cheeks and breasts fuller, as well as treat specific problem areas in the back, neck and hands.

The more popular types of collagen include breast collagen injection and facial collagen injection, comprising collagen lip injection and collagen injection for wrinkles. Facial collagen injections are a more common procedure among collagen injections.

In a collagen injection procedure, small amounts of collagen are injected into problem areas of the body, specifically parts where natural collagen has weakened. The procedure usually takes about thirty (30) to sixty (60) minutes. Two types of collagen fillers are used. These are Bovine and Human collagen. Bovine, a derivative from cow tissue is very compatible with human skin and is easily taken in the by the body to be its own tissue. Bovine has a high success rate among patients although there are some who may not respond to it. On the other hand, Human collagen is a bio-engineered product and normally comes from a human donor.

Collagen injection procedures are generally easy, quick and safe. Compared to other injectable treatments, it run the lowest risk of possible infection and scarring. It is also relatively affordable than other surgical, cosmetic procedures. In addition, collagen injection is less prone to serious side effects and complications.

After procedure, patients may resume with their everyday activities. They may experience redness, swelling, puffiness and bruising around the injection site. The results, however, are fleeting which usually lasts for a period of nine to three weeks and patients may have to get another collagen injection procedure after effect. However, this treatment may not be safe for those who are pregnant, nursing, have oral and gum diseases or those inflicted with AIDS as well as other related auto-immune sickness.

Keep in mind, though, that before you decide to give it a go on a collagen injection, you need to know first whether you are a good candidate for this procedure as some factors, like any other cosmetic procedure, may not make you fit for the bill. Patients who are in ages between 35 to 60 years old, in good health and with a relatively flexible skin may be potential, if not, qualified candidates for this procedure.

You also need to consult with a qualified practitioner with a good and extensive experience in administering collagen injections and make a thorough two-on-two discussion as to how you would like your goals to be met and how you want to achieve them. The doctor will also check your medical history and assess if you are right for the procedure whereas if it does not work for you, you may consider other options.