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Frequently Asked Questions

Collagen

Tired of unsightly lines on your face? We can help you return to a more youthful appearance.

As we grow older, our faces begin to show the effects gravity, sun exposure and repeated facial muscle movement from smiling, chewing, and frowning. Collagen is an injectable used to improve your facial appearance by filling in deep wrinkles, creases, skin depressions and some scars. It can also be used to add a more full, sensuous look to your lips.

For your convenience, we’ve compiled a list of commonly asked questions, and the respective answers.

Q: How does collagen work?
Q: How is collagen administered?
Q: How long do the effects last?
Q: Are there any risks associated with the procedure?
Q: Where will the treatment be performed?
Q: Will anesthesia be required?
Q: How will I feel after treatment?
Q: Where can I find more information on this topic?

Q: How does collagen work?
A: Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that is injected under the skin to plump up wrinkles and creases. It smoothes facial lines, returning you to a more youthful appearance.

Q: How is collagen administered?
A: Collagen is injected into your skin by a qualified physician.

Q: How long do the effects last?
A: Collagen, like other injectable fillers, is not permanent. Results may last only a few weeks or indefinitely. Some researchers feel that age, skin quality, lifestyle and genetics play a role in permanency. However, the exact reason for varying results has not been identified.

Q: Are there any risks associated with the procedure?
A: As with most injectables, risk of complications is minimal when performed by a qualified physician. The main risk is an allergic reaction to the collagen. Your physician may perform an allergy skin test prior to the procedure. Other risks include: redness, infection, abscesses, open sores, skin peeling, or lumpiness. Collagen injections are contraindicated (not recommended) for pregnant women, persons who are allergic to beef products or lidocaine, or have autoimmune disorders.

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Q: Where will the treatment be performed?
A: Collagen injections occur in the convenience of our outpatient clinic.

Q: Will anesthesia be required?
A: Lidocaine will be mixed with the collagen to numb the treatment area. If you are allergic to lidocaine, your physician may apply a topical anesthetic cream.

Q: How will I feel after treatment?
A: The treated area may be sore and slightly bruised and swollen, but usually resolves within 24 hours. Because your body will absorb some of the salt water that’s part of the collagen composition, your physician may slightly overfill the treatment areas.

Q: Where can I find more information on this topic?
A: Additional information is available online at: http://www.plasticsurgery.org/surgery/face/injectable_fillers/injectable_fillers.cfm or by contacting one of our technicians at (409) 772-7364 between 8:00-9:00 Mon-Thursday, or 3:30-4:30 Mon/Wed/Fri.

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