Product
Descriptions:

Collagen: Bovine and Cadaver-Derived ­ A naturally occurring structural protein.

Hylaform: Hyaluronic Acid ­ the predominant glycosaminoglycan that exists in the connective soft-tissues of animals.

Restylane: Also Hyaluronic Acid, that has been modified to allow more prolonged durability.

Radiance: Calicum Hydroxyapatite microspheres suspended in a base to achieve a more prolonged durability. Minimally reactive bio-compatible filler. 

* There are also several new injectables currently being developed and studied by their respective manufacturers; however, they are still pending FDA approval. Some physicians are also using certain products “off-label” (for uses other than intended by the manufacturer.) Always use extreme caution and ask for information regarding your options before making a final decision.

Procedure

Objective:

Plump up creased, furrowed, or sunken facial skin; add fullness to lips and backs of hands. Commonly used for depressions in the skin, scar correction, nasal labial folds, marionette lines, lip enhancement

Length of Procedure:

15 minutes to 1 hour per session.

Type of Anesthesia:

Collagen: usually none; local may be included with the injection.  Some injectables can be used in conjunction with others. Example: Hylaform/Collagen can be successfully used to correct lines or enhance lips very effectively. Results are temporary.

In/Outpatient Basis:

Outpatient.

Possible Side Effects:

Temporary stinging, throbbing, or burning sensation. Faint redness, swelling, excess fullness. Applying Ice immediately and for the first 24 hours after treatment is very effective at reducing any residual swelling or discomfort.

Possible Risks:

Collagen(Bovine): allergic reaction including rash, hives, swelling, or flu-like symptoms; possible triggering of connective-tissue or autoimmune diseases. (A skin test is required before collagen treatment to determine whether an allergy exists if Bovine Collagen is to be used.) Cymetra is a cadaver-derived collagen and does not require prior allergy testing. Transient Contour irregularities, infection. Other Injectables such as Hylaform, Restylane and Radiance do not require allergy testing either.

Duration of
Results:

Variable; a few months to 1 year. There is no permanent injectable solution to lip enhancement/line correction.