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Frequently Asked Questions
INJECTABLES FILLERS
- What types of injectables are out there and what are the differences?
Most of what is out there in injectables is temporary. Collagen, which has been the leader, usually lasts only 3 months and requires a skin/allergy test. Fascian™ lasts a little longer although not by much. In theory, Fascian™ sounds wonderful - it is made up of fascia lata, strips of the tough covering that surrounds the outer thigh muscle. It is harvested from cadavers. It should last longer than collagen although I have not had the chance to test it out myself. But I hear too many reports of lumpiness and inflammation and unfortunately -- high prices, considering it is cheaper to purchase than collagen.
Cymetra Micronized AlloDerm™ isn't exactly getting rave reviews either. Everyone I have spoken to says that Cymetra lasts only a short time and costs them an arm and a leg. AlloDerm allograft (dermis graft) itself, being that the injectable is somewhat "broken down" already. But then I hear from the company that it is supposed to be layered over a 2 year period for best benefits. Well who has 2 years and a second mortgage to spare for that?
The benefit of an injectable is the volume it can give the lips. The "poutiness" is much more defined compared to the implants which gives a more subtle, defined lip. Only downfall - which is a big one - is that most injectables are not permanent.
There are a few injectables that are permanent, such as Artecoll™, Argiform™, Metacril, Bioformacryl, etc.. Artecoll™ is made from PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) The Artecoll™ is formulated into microspheres (extremely small round bits) and blended with 0.3% lidocaine for comfort and collagen (3.5%) as well. The collagen is broken down by the body yet the PMMA microspheres are left behind to be encapsulated by the body's own collagen. These microspheres are "networked" together by your body's collagen structure therefore creating augmentation.
Argiform™ and other polyacrylamide implants are made from a polymer that holds moisture. This type of product has been used in medicine and also in agriculture for decades.
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