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One of the most common agents used in cosmetic surgery is collagen. Introduced in the early 1980's, collagen implants have set the standard for smoothing facial lines, wrinkles and scars, and for providing lip border definition. Zyderm and Zyplast implants are made of purified bovine (cow) collagen. They are used to supplement the skin's own collagen and to smooth facial lines and wrinkles. There are several different formulations available. These products differ in the concentration of collagen they contain. In general, a higher concentration is used for deeper wrinkles. Zyderm 1 implants are used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, shallow scars, worry lines, crow's feet and nasolabial lines. Zyderm 2 implants are used to treat moderate lines, wrinkles and scars. Zyplast implants are indicated to treat pronounced lines, deeper furrows, scars, to reduce nasolabial folds and marionette lines, and to "plump" the lips. An immediate difference in appearance may be visible after a single treatment session. Treatment with collagen implants consists of a simple office procedure lasting 30-60 minutes. The procedure can be conveniently performed during a lunch hour! Most patients return to their normal routine immediately after the procedure. An ongoing series of customized treatments can preserve the desired appearance. Subsequent "touch-up" treatments are as easy and convenient as the first procedure.
If you are interested in limiting the development of wrinkles in problem areas (forehead, crow's feet region, between the brows), then you may be a candidate for BOTOX® (Botulinum Toxin) injections. This medicine is introduced into the muscles that lie beneath the skin surface. When a muscle is injected, it is unable to contract. The skin overlying the muscle tends to smooth, and finer wrinkles disappear. The effects of the injection last for 3-4 months. At the end of that time, the BOTOX® wears off and muscle activity returns. Some patients choose to undergo a series of 2 to 4 injections, after which, muscle activity remains reduced. This provides a much longer-lasting result. Article: "Why Plastic Surgery Helps You Get Ahead" - The New Republic Online
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Restylane This injectable material is composed of Hyaluron, a naturally occurring substance present in skin and connective tissue. It is responsible for the elastic quality that allows skin to “bounce back” when compressed. Diminished amounts of Hyaluron are present as we age, resulting in flattening and loss of elasticity. The product has been used in Europe and Canada for almost 15 years. It's been available in the USA since 2004. When injected into lips, lines or creases, Restylane will enhance fullness and diminish the appearance of wrinkles. The enhancement lasts for 4-6 months, which is usually longer than Collagen. It is well tolerated by patients and no allergy testing is required before use. Dr. Wall first used Restylane when training in Toronto in 2000-01, where it was preferred by most Canadians and Europeans. Dr. Wall was particularly pleased when the Restylane was approved for use here in the USA, because it allows him to apply the expertise he developed years earlier.
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BOTOX®
