Frequently Asked Collagen Questions
 What are collagen injections?
Collagen injections are a cosmetic procedure which injects collagen into areas of the face to plump up and fill in furrowed, creased or sunken facial skin. It can also be injected into the lips or the backs of the hands to add fullness.
Are there any limitations to collagen injections?
Collagen is typically not sufficient for severe surface wrinkles, which may be better treated with resurfacing techniques like laser treatments, dermabrasion and chemical peels. In addition, deep folds in the face and brow may be better treated with procedures like a browlift or facelift.
Who is the best candidate for collagen injections?
The best candidate for collagen injections is a physically healthy man or woman who is realistic in their expectations and interested in improving the appearance of the facial skin or adding fullness to the lips or backs of the hands.
Where do collagen injections take place?
Collagen injections typically take place in a surgeon's office-based facility, though they can also take place in an outpatient surgical center or in a hospital.
Is anesthesia used with collagen injections?
Collagen injections typically do not require anesthesia, though a local anesthetic may be included in the injection.
How long does the actual procedure take?
Collagen injections can take anywhere from fifteen minutes to one hour to complete.
Is there any pain with collagen injections?
Patients may experience some temporary stinging, throbbing or a burning sensation.
What is the recovery like after a collagen injection?
Collagen injections typically involve little or no downtime. Some minor discomfort, throbbing or stinging in the injected area may occur right after the procedure. In addition, some faint redness, swelling and bruising can also occur though they are typically minor and tend to disappear quickly. Small scabs may form over the injection site, which heal quickly as well.
Will I need to take off from work after a collagen procedure?
Patients are usually able to return to their usual activities right away.
What are the risks or complications of collagen injections?
The risks associated with collagen injections include abscesses, allergic reaction, contour irregularities, infection, lumpiness, open sores, scarring, and skin peeling.
Does insurance cover the cost of collagen procedures?
Insurance usually doesn't cover the cost of cosmetic procedures, though some amount of coverage may be available for procedures used to treat scars or indentations from an accident or injury. Be sure to check with your own insurance carrier.
Is financing available for collagen injections?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures and your surgeon should be able to provide you with additional information.
How long do the results of collagen injections last?
The duration of results will vary greatly among patients. For some, the results may last only a few months while others may experience results that last a year or longer.
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