What is Collagen Injection—Wrinkle Filler?

Collagen injection is a procedure used to fill wrinkles, plump lips, and improve skin appearance. Collagen is injected into targeted areas under the skin with a fine needle.

Collagen is a natural protein that supports the skin and other areas of the body. It may be taken from an animal (cow or pig) or the patient’s own tissue. Collagen is one of several filler options available.

Collagen injection is an elective, cosmetic procedure. This means that the patient requests to have a procedure which is not medically necessary. It is done to:

• Fill wrinkle lines

• Plump lips

• Improve the appearance of scars by plumping and smoothing skin

Types of Wrinkles

Wrinkles © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Collagen injection may be used to fill in wrinkles near the nose, mouth, and forehead.

© 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

With proper pretreatment testing and a trained specialist (dermatologist or facial or general plastic surgeon), treatments are often successful and results are seen immediately. Results are temporary, lasting six months or more.

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have collagen injections, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:

• Allergic reaction

• Bumps, clumping, or abscesses on the skin

• Uneven skin appearance

• Skin rash, itchiness

• Infection

• Bleeding, bruising, or swelling

• Damage to surrounding tissue and nerves

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Taking blood-thinning medicines

• Allergies

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the collagen injections.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Increased pain, redness, bleeding, discharge, or...