Collagen injections are mostly used to treat visible effects of aging, acne scar, burn areas, and also, for lip augmentation. Though collagen injection side effects are mild, one should analyze the pros and cons before using it.
Collagen refers to a group of naturally occurring proteins that connects and holds the tissues together. Found in the connective tissues, muscle tissues, teeth, skin, and other body areas, more than 25 types of collagen are identified. Altogether, it accounts for one-fourth of total amount of proteins in the human body. With age, the percentage content of this protein reduces considerably, leading to various signs and symptoms of aging.
Considering the effects of its degradation, collagen filler is used to supplement the lack of this protein in certain parts of the body. Also, collagen injections are used in a number of dermal filler treatment methods. Very often, they are used to smoothen the skin and enhance looks by filling up synthetic collagen underneath the skin layer. In addition, delivering collagen injections for incontinence is becoming a popular therapeutic option both in men and women. In this treatment, collagen is injected in the urethral portion to prevent uncontrolled urine leakage.
How Collagen Injections Work?
In brief, cosmetic use of these injections include, treatment of aging lines, crow’s feet, creases, wrinkles, scar tissues, and burn marks. Also, this protein is injected in the lips to create fuller lips, a procedure called as lip augmentation. In any of the cases, before injecting this protein, a topical ointment is applied over the injection site. Then, using a fine needle, the surgeon delivers it below the skin layer, which then pushes the skin making it look smooth and firm. The time required to inject this protein is 15 – 30 minutes, depending upon the size of the treatment area.
Most candidates resume their normal activities within a few minutes after this treatment. The effect of this treatment usually lasts for 3 to 4 months. The average cost for a single injection is USD 400. This cost may fluctuate from one region to another, ranging from USD 250 to USD 500.
Side Effects
After this treatment, the candidate should refrain from using any skin care or cosmetic products for at least 24 hours or as prescribed by the surgeon. The surgeon may keep the candidate under supervision for at least one hour to examine any unusual side effects. In some cases, these injections are associated with mild to severe side effects. Hence, consult an experienced cosmetic surgeon before going for this treatment.
Also, immediately after the protein is injected, most candidates complain of mild discomfort and pain. However, these signs usually subside within a few hours; if not, pain relieving medications are prescribed. In some cases, the treated area may become red for a prolonged period. Thus, it is imperative to perform a skin rash test on a patch of skin, before getting this treatment. Other side effects include temporary redness, throbbing, peeling, swelling, burning sensation, infection, and scarring on the site of injection.
Collagen injections are a temporary measure to enhance looks or solve incontinence problems. The body cells absorb the injected protein, which thus requires follow-up injections from time to time to maintain the same look.
Disclaimer: This BeautiSecrets article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
