Collagen may be used as a filling agent to correct volume lost through aging or disease. It may be used to correct wrinkles in the skin and to augment facial features such as the cheekbones and chin. It is most often used to correct wrinkles around the mouth and to enhance the lips.

Q&A

How long does Collagen last?
The most recent advancement in collagen replacement includes Cymetra, which has lasted up to one year on some patients. This is a human bank source that is safe because it is screened and acellular. Bovine collagen (Zyplast) lasts about four to six months. Softform is a permanent filling agent used to help correct the “nasal folds”. This is a softer version of Gortex implant technology.

Does this feel normal? Is it permanent?
This product has a very natural soft, spongy feel and it is hollow in the center to allow your tissue to incorporate into the implant. It is permanent, yet reversible.

Fat transfer allows patients to use fat from their own body. This aging process leaves hollow areas in the cheeks and the lips. Fat grafting is helpful for larger areas and defects. Permanency is determined after three months. (See Custom Weekend Facelift)

This process can be used to correct contour defects resulting from bony resorption, muscle atrophy (wasting) and thinning skin. There is also no risk or allergic reaction.

Is the fat that is transferred permanent?
Areas of least mobility such as the cheek, chin and lower eyelid seem to be most often associated with maximal “take” of the fat graft. Fat cells are also frozen for a touch-up procedure three to four months after the initial procedure.