What are collagen injections?
Collagen is a protein which is found in the skin. It causes the skin to stretch smoothly over bones and cartilage, keeping it soft and supple. As we age, the reserves of collagen run low and eventually, the body stops producing it altogether. This is why older skin tends to wrinkle and appear thinner. With our safe and highly effective collagen treatments, Liverpool patients can replace this lost protein with collagen injections that artificially replicate the skin’s own proteins to improve skin elasticity.
How do collagen injections work?
Collagen is the skin’s most abundant protein but production of it reduces as we get older. A collagen injection carried out by a trained health care professional replenishes the skin’s natural collagen enhancing the contours and elasticity of the skin.
There are several different types of collagen that can be used including bovine (cow) collagen, porcine (pig) collagen, or bioengineered or synthetic collagen products. The collagen is placed just beneath the skin, in the dermis, where the body will readily accept it. Most collagens naturally break down after a few months, but other collagens are intended as a more permanent fix.
What can be treated with collagen injections?
Through our professional collagen treatment, Liverpool, Wirral and Chester patients can enjoy long-lasting cosmetic improvement of loose, wrinkled or sunken skin. The collagen jabs are often referred to as "fillers" because they are most commonly sought after as a way to plump up areas of skin. The lips and around the eyes are some of the most frequently requested treatments. Patients who are looking to improve their appearance, especially by reducing the signs of ageing, might consider collagen replacement.
However, collagen is much more than just a beauty tool. It can greatly improve the appearance of scarring, including stretch marks, without the need for cosmetic surgery. Patients who have visible scarring from an operation or an accident can benefit from collagen injections. Liverpool doctors at our clinic can discuss potential collagen therapy as part of a recovery plan.
Collagen can encourage the skin to heal. It has antibacterial properties, and it can encourage wounds to close cleanly and safely. In many cases, this can prevent the need for further surgery. Injecting the protein around damaged tissue, such as open wounds, can lead to faster recovery. If you are due to undergo surgery or are having problems with healing an injury, make an appointment to discuss the possible benefits of collagen with one of our doctors.
How long does the treatment take?
The procedure may only take a few minutes or longer depending on the area being injected and the method used. Local or topical anesthesia will be given to numb the area being treated. The collagen will be injected by one of two methods - either via a series of small punctures with small amounts of collagen inserted at each point or the needle being inserted the full length of the target area and the collagen injected slowly as the needle is removed. You will be able to go home immediately after your collagen injection in Liverpool.
How long should I expect for the treatment to have an effect?
Collagen treatment is given in the form of a subdermal injection, directly into areas that will benefit from the treatment. Once injected, the results should last around 3-5 months - it all depends on the collagen used and how quickly it breaks down in your body. Some patients may need a follow-up around 3 months after the first injection, and it is not uncommon for some patients to need several collagen treatments in Liverpool before seeing the desired results.
What precautions should I take after the treatment (aftercare)?
In very rare cases, collagen can cause an allergic reaction. Our private doctors will arrange an allergy test prior to any treatment you receive. We use safe medical-grade collagen for all injections. All our collagen injections in Liverpool will be administered by a qualified and experienced medical professional, and we are on hand to answer your questions at every stage and will advise you on the precautionary steps to take following treatment.
You may experience some slight bruising, puffiness, redness, and tenderness around the treated site for up to 48 hours after treatment but this should quickly subside.
Some of the post-collagen injection recommendations include:
- Apply ice or a soothing ointment in the first 6 hours
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, hot drinks and spicy food for 24 hours as these can bring out bruising and swelling
- Avoid any blood thinning agents (aspirin, nurofen, and certain supplements) for 1-2 weeks as they may worsen any bruising
- Avoid exercise for 24 hours
- Avoid sun exposure for 24 hours
- Hydrate well to stimulate the effect of the collagen
- A convenient and effective way for you to access private health care services when you need it.
- We can tailor your treatment to your needs
- A range of finance and payment options available
- We offer a friendly, trustworthy and above-all-else familiar service.
Also see our related pages:
- Lip fillers Liverpool
- Dermal fillers Liverpool
- Anti-wrinkle treatment
- Facial volumisers