Collagen is one of the basic building blocks of the body. It is a structural protein consisting of long-chain molecules that clump together to form stretchy fibers; these fibers comprise the body's natural filler material (the extracellular matrix) that holds our organs and other tissues in place. Collagen is also the main component in the body's connective and protective tissues, including the fascia, ligaments, cartilage and skin. It is collagen in our skin that gives it strength, elasticity and toughness; and its breakdown allows the wrinkles that go along with aging to appear.

CosmoDerm/CosmoPlast is a cosmetic skin treatment based upon the use of injected collagen to fill in unwanted wrinkles, lines and other flaws of the facial skin. While other forms of dermal collagen treatment exist, CosmoDerm and CosmoPlast are the only FDA approved dermal fillers that contain natural human collagen.

For some patients, reducing the appearance of fine lines upon the face is the primary goal during treatment. CosmoDerm is most effective in this role. CosmoPlast is more commonly used to reduce the prominence of the deep wrinkles that often form between the brows, smile lines surrounding the nose and mouth, and the profound scarring that can remain from severe acne. Typical facial flaws that can be successfully treated using CosmoDerm / CosmoPlast include

Forehead lines and wrinkles

Frown lines

weak or absent lip borders

Deep facial folds

Crow's feet and other skin damage near the eye

?pursing? lines above the lips

However, the CosmoDerm/CosmoPlast treatment procedure is essentially the same: a series of simple injections, which are administered along with Lidocaine to induce numbing of the skin. Some redness and inflammation of the skin adjacent to the injection sites may occur, but these side effects typically fade away soon after the procedure is complete. The entire CosmoDerm or CosmoPlast treatment procedure ordinarily takes under one hour to complete, allowing patients to be treated in their doctor's office and return quickly to their daily routine.

Since CosmoDerm/CosmoPlast are based upon natural human collagen, the risks associated with the treatment itself are essentially nil. However, all medical procedures carry with them the risk of unforeseen side effects. Prior to deciding upon CosmoDerm/CosmoPlast treatment, potential patients should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or other licensed medical practitioner to determine if CosmoDerm/CosmoPlast treatment is right for them.