Collagen Stimulating Injections are a type of dermal filler. Depending on the type, they can add immediate volume and all will lead to the production of collagen over 3-6 months.
Collagen is a structural protein that gives the facial tissues a youthful quality. Collagen can last for many years after the filler has been broken down by the body.
Collagen stimulating injections are temporary and irreversible – a key feature that differentiates them from dermal fillers. They have a more predictable longevity compared to dermal fillers, and also stimulate the production of collagen (neocollagenesis). Collagen production over a 3-6 month period improves the results, so it is critical not to inject too much of a collagen stimulator.
Collagen stimulating injections can be used in many parts of the face (and body). The areas where they are not injected are the under eyes, nose and lips. A type of collagen stimulating injection known as a powder filler has an additional treatment area. This is the non surgical BBL. Injecting powder filler to the buttocks can help to build up collagen over time, improving the shape of the buttock region. It is best for those with small contour irregularities or those looking to preserve the youthful quality of their buttocks.
The risks of collagen stimulating injections include:
- Bruising;
- Swelling;
- Redness and local tenderness;
- Mild and temporary headache;
- Infections;
- Nodules (firm lumps);
- Foreign body reactions including granulomas (where the body identifies the filler as foreign material and reacts to it, forming local swelling, redness, pain and scar tissue)
- Allergic reactions;
- Over or under correction;
- Asymmetry;
- Lumps (possibly due to over injection of filler);
- Loss of vision (extremely rare));
- Stroke (extremely rare);
- Skin ischaemia and necrosis (if ischaemia is not treated in a timely manner): this occurs if blood flow is blocked by dermal filler and the skin is no longer receiving its blood supply.
It is vital to understand and accept that the risks of collagen stimulating injections are much more significant, as these products cannot be reversed.
Collagen stimulating injections are more suitable for those looking for subtle enhancements, those with a long term outlook in ageing gracefully, or those who want long lasting and natural collagen based volume who are accepting of the higher risks of this treatment.
When used appropriately, collagen stimulating injections are a powerful and safe way to rejuvenate the face.
Want to know if collagen stimulating injections are right for you? Find out more about collagen stimulating injections here.