Collagen
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the connective tissue making up to 35% of the whole-body’s protein content. It is possible to use collagen derived from cows, horses and pigs as a replacement for connective tissue or volume-loss in a person. Collagen treatments require allergy testing and only last 1-3 months. Dr. Melamed prefers to use Collagen-like (NASHA) products instead.
What are Collagen-Like (NASHA) Products?
There are several collagen-like products currently available in the United States. Examples are Restylane and Juvederm. These are specific formulations of non-animal sourced hyaluronic acid (NASHA) used in place of collagen. Restylane and Juvederm have both been approved by the FDA for cosmetic injection into facial tissues.
Because of its components and duration, Radiesse is more aptly referred to as an implant rather than filler. It is used for soft tissue augmentation in the correction of deep facial folds and creases and restoration of volume loss in hollow facial areas. The tiny microspheres provide scaffolding into which the bodies own tissue can grow and increase the volume. Radiesse has proven to be a very versatile facial contouring product and has demonstrated durable augmentation in areas such as chin and cheek where a larger volume is required. It maintains a soft, natural feel and takes on the characteristics of the surrounding skin tissue.
How long will a treatment session take?
Treatment with Radiesse, Restylane & Juvederm is quick and easy process. As no pre-test is needed, the treatment can be carried out immediately. A treatment generally takes 30 minutes. The time differs somewhat, depending on the correction you wish to have performed. Patients will have the option for either topical or local numbing. Following the procedure, patients may immediately return back to daily activities, however, treatment sights may be swollen for 1-2 days. There is also potential for bruising at the injection sight, which may be covered with makeup.
Does it hurt?
Most people find the injections relatively painless and do not use any numbing. They feel a little prick. If you like, a topical or local anesthetic can be applied to the area being treated prior to your procedure. When enhancing the lips, a local anesthetic injection is often given as this area is the most sensitive.
How soon will I see the results?
The results can be seen immediately, and generally improve even more over 1-2 weeks after the treatment.
What will I look like after the treatment?
Immediately after the treatment, you can expect slight redness, swelling, tenderness or an itching sensation in the treated area. This is a normal result of the injection. The discomfort is temporary and generally disappears in a few days. After a lip treatment, the lips may become swollen and look somewhat uneven. This can persist for a few days (up to a week). If the discomfort continues, please contact your physician.
How long will my treatments last?
Restylane and Juvederm treatment will last between 6-12 months, depending on the treatment areas. Lips enhancement will generally last 6 months, while mid-face contouring will last longer or up to 12 months. Radiesse can provide even longer lasting correction of up to 18 months; however individual results may vary, affected by age, skin type, and lifestyle and muscle activity.
Are there precautions after my treatment?
Yes. During the first 48 hours after your treatment, do not massage or rub the treated area (unless directed by Dr. Melamed). If you have had a lip enhancement, avoid puckering your lips for the first two days after the treatment. Until the initial swelling and redness have resolved, do not expose the treated area to intense heat (e.g. in a sauna or by sunbathing) or extreme cold.
What should I do prior to the treatments?
Avoid taking aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, St. John’s Wort and high doses of Vitamin E supplements one week prior to procedure. This will help minimize any bruising or bleeding at the infection site.
What other treatments are typically used along with Restylane or Juvederm?
Quite frequently our patients will have Botox or Dysport injections to soften the dynamic wrinkles caused by movement such as frowning or squinting or lip pursing. Using both products simultaneously results in a smooth, relaxed and younger appearance.
If you have any questions about acne, Botox, Restylane, Radiesse/Radiance, Chemical Peels, Laser hair removal or any other procedure or would like to make a Complimentary Consultation please schedule and Online Appointment or call toll free 1-88-88-West LA (310-473-1734).
