Collagen is a protein located in the dermis layer of the skin, directly below the surface layer known as the epidermis. Its function is to provide skin with strength and elasticity, giving it a plump and youthful appearance.
This fibrous tissue can be damaged due to stressors such as physical trauma, or it can deteriorate during the natural aging process. Fortunately, there have been recent advances in collagen repair research that apply to the molecular level of skin repair. A 2008 study published in the Archives of Dermatology at the University of Michigan shows that injections of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in your body, stimulate new production of collagen. The stabilized form of hyaluronic acid, which inhibits the enzymes that attack collagen, is known as non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA).
At the 68th Annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology in March 2010, dermatologist Dana L. Sachs, MD, FAAD reported, "Samples of skin injected with NASHA demonstrated evidence of increased newly created type I collagen, especially in the areas surrounding the filler. In addition, fibroblasts were observed at four and 13 weeks following injection to be in a 'stretched' configuration that correlates with increased collagen production." These injections are a type of dermal filler. Dermal fillers are administered by a board-certified cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist.
Pre-Procedure
Step 1
Examine your motives. Ask yourself what your reasons are for wanting to change your appearance. Advances in technology and affordability have made nonsurgical procedures such as dermal fillers highly accessible and prone to overuse. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, nonsurgical procedures have risen in the U.S. by 225 percent for women and 290 percent for men from 1997 to 2010.
Step 2
Find a doctor. Go to the dermatologist finder tool on the American Academy of Dermatology website (see Resources). Select your search criteria based on your location, and filter by the procedure specialty "Cosmetic Dermatology."
Once you find a suitable physician, call the office to schedule an initial consultation. During the initial consultation, the doctor will learn about your medical history and your specific cosmetic needs. She will also want to know if you have questions or concerns. The American Academy of Dermatology provides a suggested list of questions to ask your practitioner before a procedure (see Resources) which can lessen the probability of complications and manage your expectations.
Step 3
Plan for the procedure. Follow all the instructions that your dermatologist gives you during the initial consultation. He may require the temporary discontinuation of certain medications, such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS), which can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Because most dermal filler treatments can be administered during a single outpatient appointment and have minimal side effects, planning for down-time is not usually necessary. Immediately before the procedure, cleanse the targeted area. The doctor will then apply an anesthetic and inject the filler.
Post-Procedure
Step 1
Treat side effects. Manage swelling and redness by applying a cold compress to the affected area. Do not leave ice on the area for more than 15 to 20 minutes, as this may cause damage to the skin. Do not exercise until the next day, and avoid directly touching the area for at least three days.
Step 2
Monitor your healing. Call your physician immediately if you experience side effects that were not explained to you at the initial consultation or during the procedure appointment.
Step 3
Attend follow-ups. Go to additional appointments as instructed by your doctor. These may be scheduled to check the results of the treatment or for the purpose of administering additional injections.
Things You'll Need
- List of current medications
- Cold compress
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