Beauty Doc Blog

Dermal fillers can add a youthful appearance to your face. Of course, if you considering using injectable fillers, use one that is FDA approved for your own safety. It is unfortunate many patients do not take the simple steps that would ensure that they are using authentic products. Less than one percent of physicians in a recent survey said that their patients asked to see the packaging of cosmetic injectables to ensure that those used were  authentic. Only about five percent ask for this information occasionally and the majority of patients never ask while 27 percent only sometimes ask to see the packaging. Patients should always be sure that the cosmetic injectables, whether Botox, a dermal filler or any other injectable are authentic and safe. Of course most doctors say that they  require their patients to sign an informed consent document and they discuss risks with the patient. This is only one of the reasons for using a Board Certified plastic surgeon, as you can then be sure of getting the best injectables.

One common injectable is collagen. Widely used  in cosmetic surgery it also functions as an aide to healing in burn patients and has many other orthopedic, surgical and dental uses including bone reconstruction. Popular for years, it is now sometimes put aside for newer injectables, but for many is still the first choice.

A possible problem with collagen use for some patients is the possibility of allergic reactions. Patch testing on the skin of the patient will quickly determine if that is a danger. Most  collagen used in cosmetic surgery is bovine in nature, from young beef cattle. Manufacturers use animals from closed herds or from countries that have never had a case of mad cow disease to minimize risks. Alternatives to collagen from animals include that derived from human donor cadavers, placentas and aborted fetuses.

Collagen is quite effective in filling wrinkles, scars and facial lines. After the skin test to determine there is no allergic reaction collagen will be injected using a fine needle. Minor discomfort will occur but no bandaging is needed and the patient is free to go about most normal activities including eating and drinking and may wear makeup with a sun block.

For those who cannot use collagen there are other alternatives that also have good results. These include hyaluronic acid sold under the brand name of Hylaform and Hylaform Plus. Most patients are happy with the results of the indictable treatments they undergo, with collagen offering quite pleasing results for those who can use it.