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Collagen is an essential protein
complex found in the human body. Collagen molecules form fibrils
that produce necessary fibers for our bodies. The configuration
of fibers is the foundation for tissue structure. Collagen
supports the skin, bone, cartilage and blood vessels in our
bodies.
Skin consists of two layers: the
epidermis and the dermis. The upper-most layer, known as the
epidermis, controls the loss of water from cells and tissue.
Without this protective barrier, the body would quickly dehydrate.
 Just below the epidermis lies the
second layer, the dermis. This layer, although it contains
blood vessels, nerves and hair follicles, is primarily made
up of a protein called "collagen." This protein forms a network
of fibers that provides a framework for the growth of cells
and blood vessels. Because it is the primary constituent of
the dermis, collagen acts as the support structure for the
skin. As people age, this structure weakens and the skin loses
its elasticity. The skin begins to lose its tone as the collagen
support wears down.
The injection of collagen fillers,
(also called soft-tissue augmentation) is a cosmetic
procedure performed to correct wrinkles, depressions in
the skin, and/or scarring.
The areas which are most commonly
treated while using this technique are:
- Perioral lines (above the lips)
- Marionette lines (lines at the ends of the mouth)
- Glabellar frown lines
(between the eyebrows
- Nasolabial folds (sides of the nose)
- The Vermillion ridge (top of the lip)
- Oral comissures (smile lines)
- Crows feet
- Acne scars and depressed
scars
Versión Español: Rellenos de Colágeno
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Candidates for this type of treatment
are usually between the ages of 35 and 60. People who are
pregnant or nursing, people with allergies to bovine products
or lidocaine, or those with certain medical conditions such
as autoimmune diseases, should not submit themselves to this
procedure.
The most important fact to remember
about injectable fillers is that
the results are not permanent. Injected material is eventually
metabolized by the body. You should not expect the same long-lasting
results that may be gained from cosmetic
surgery.
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 After a skin test has been performed
to determine that you're not allergic to the substance, the
treatment can commence. The collagen is injected using a fine
needle inserted at several points along the edge of the treatment
area. If a local anesthesia has not been used, you may feel
some minor stinging or burning as the injections are administered.
Since part of the substance is salt
water that will be absorbed by the
body within a few days, your doctor will slightly overfill
the area. You may be asked to hold a hand mirror during the
procedure to help your doctor decide when you've had enough.
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Immediately following treatment,
you may notice some minor discomfort, stinging or throbbing
in the injected region. Rarely, some bruising or swelling
will occur but it is usually minor. Any redness that appears
in the injected site usually disappears within 24 hours. However,
in some individuals, particularly fair-skinned patients, this
redness may persist for a week or more. Tiny scabs may also
form over the needle-stick areas; these generally heal rapidly.
Normal activities can be resumed
immediately; however, you are advised
to stay out of the sun. Unmanageable pain or any symptoms
that are progressive or abnormal should be reported to the
doctor immediately.
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Complications are possible with any
medical procedure, though complications from collagen fillers
are typically minimal. Some possible complications include
uneven texture of the skin, an allergic reaction, infection,
abscess and scarring. Your doctor can answer questions about
complications and their proper treatment during your initial
consultation.
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The information above is an introductory
description of a collagen filler
procedure. If you wish to have more information or have any
questions concerning this treatment, please feel free to contact
us directly.
Related Keywords:
Dermal fillers, injections, facial treatments,
collagen, cometic surgery, botox,
dermatology, skin - cosmetic treatments, collagen
treatments, facial treatments , fat transfer.
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