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In this Article

• What are Collagen Injections?
• Why Do Lines Appear?
• Why Aren't Creams Containing Collagen Enough To Smooth Out Lines?
• How Do Collagen Injections Work?
• Other Injectable Fillers
• What Can I Expect?
• How Many Injections Will I Need?
• How Do I Find Out If Injections Are Right For Me?
• Collagen and Injectable Fillers Index
• Find a local Dermatologist in your town

What Can I Expect?

You should expect to receive a small injection of local anesthesia to numb the area being treated. Remember, there is a possibility of slight bruising, and you may experience puffiness, redness and tenderness around the treated site.

It's important to discuss with your physician exactly what you can expect from each treatment. Together, you can prioritize which facial areas are most important to you and discuss how many treatments you may need and the estimated cost. It's important to know that one treatment may not remove every line on your face.

Depending on the substance injected, you may need continued treatments to maintain the smoothing effect.

How Many Injections Will I Need?

That depends on which product you use. Just like natural collagen, collagen replacements begin to lose form and will eventually wear down. Treatment may require collagen injections 2 to 4 times a year to maintain the smoothing effects. HylaForm and Restylane are also eventually reabsorbed by the body. Synthetic materials such as Artecoll lasts longer, but carry a higher risk of allergic reaction. Fat, depending on how it is used, can sometimes achieve permanent results.

How Do I Find Out If Injections Are Right For Me?

You and your physician will discuss your medical history and the areas you want treated. Injections are not appropriate for certain lines and scars or when certain medical conditions are present. It is very important to discuss and understand what filler injections can do for you.

If you and your doctor decide injections are appropriate, your doctor may start with a skin test in your forearm to determine if you are sensitive to the substance being used. You must watch the area very carefully over a four-week period. Most men and women tested show no reaction to the skin test and can have injections.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic, Department of Dermatology
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, Sept. 2003.

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