Collagen injections were approved by the FDA in 1981. They have proven to be a very popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure; see current American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) statistics. Injectable Zyderm and Zyplast collagen, natural substances derived from purified bovine (cow) collagen, essentially replace the natural collagen that the skin loses over time. Collagen injections are most useful in the treatment of frown lines, "crow’s feet," and nasolabial folds (smile lines). To improve deeper creases or enhance lip fullness, there also are filler materials, such as soft ePTFE (expanded polytetrafluoro-ethylene) that can be surgically implanted.

Technique: Collagen, which contains local anesthesia, is injected with a tiny needle into the skin depressions being treated. Several injections may be needed, depending on the length and depth of the wrinkle. The procedure for both injections and implants takes less than an hour. Implantation procedures for the lips and nasolabial areas are done with a local anesthetic. A tiny incision is placed at either end of the site. Then the implant is inserted and positioned. Incisions are closed with a suture.

Benefits

• Safe, time-tested, effective treatment that provides immediate results.
• No downtime for injectables—patients can immediately resume work and all normal activities.
• No need to obtain tissue from another part of the body.

Other Considerations

• Collagen is only temporarily effective. Repeat treatments are needed every three to six months.
• There may be some slight bruising. Pretreatment testing for allergic reactions is recommended. Allergic reactions can cause itching, redness, or other symptoms.