Collagen Dallas FAQs

How long has injectable collagen been used?

This was first used in 1966 and was released to dermatological and cosmetic surgeons in 1981. Approximately a million people have used it since then.

Does collagen take the place of such procedures as face-lifts and dermabrasion?

Injectable collagen is not meant for people who have excessive facial skin or who need major resurfacing of their skin. Many times, however, it can be an adjunct to these procedures and fill in depressions, which cannot be helped by face-lifts or laser skin resurfacing.

How do collagen creams differ from injectable collagen?

Collagen creams, no matter where the collagen comes from, are basically only moisturizers and help to retain water. Zyderm and Zyplast collagen are medical products injected below the skin's surface where contour problems begin.

Can anyone receive these injectable collagen implants?

No. Your medical history is important and depending on that history a skin test will need to be done. If you are allergic to cow collagen products, then treatment cannot be performed. Also, people who have a history of severe allergies, such as anaphylaxis, or if the person is pregnant, they may not receive collagen injections. Of course, since there is some anesthetic in the collagen product, those sensitive to Lidocaine cannot receive the injections either. Finally, if you have any personal history of such autoimmune diseases as scleroderma, polymyositis, rheumatoid arthritis and others or are currently undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, this procedure may impose relative contraindications as well.

What is involved in the collagen treatment?

Basically there are four steps: Consultation and medical history, a skin test, after 30 days a treatment series, and then finally periodic collagen replacement treatments.

Do the injections hurt?

While you may find the injection somewhat uncomfortable, particularly around the nose and lips, the implants contain a small amount of Lidocaine that helps numb the area temporarily. Most people report the injections to be of only minor discomfort.

How will my skin look and feel immediately after treatment?

Most patients may resume normal activities following treatment in spite of some temporary puffiness over the treated area. In more uncommon situations, slight bruising and even tenderness may be noted around the treatment sites. Generally within a few days these all resolve and the material is usually not visibly distinguishable from the surrounding skin. Some people do say they can feel the outline of the injected collagen for a short while, but gradually it is incorporated into your own skin and takes on the natural look and feel of healthy skin.

How common are treatment reactions?

Only a small number of people have developed allergic reactions after one or more treatment injections. Redness, swelling, itching and/or firmness at the sites of injections identify these reactions. While most have lasted less than 4 months, a few cases have exceeded a year. Also, extremely rarely a few patients have reported some mild systemic symptoms, such as headache, joint aches, tingling and numbness in the area.