Introduction

• Wrinkle-filler injections give the appearance of younger looking skin by plumping wrinkles. The cost of these procedures can range from $300 to $1000, depending on the procedure and chemicals used. Wrinkle-filler injections are performed by plastic surgeons, and the effects of one treatment can last up to six months.
  
  

The Types of Wrinkle Fillers

• There are two types of wrinkle-filler injections that are commonly used: facial collagen and fat injections.
  
  Collagen is already found in the body; it is a form of protein. A type of purified bovine collagen mixed with salt water is injected into the face. A fine needle is used and the patient may experience some stinging as the collagen is injected. A doctor may choose to add extra collagen to balance the effect of the salt water.
  
  The fat used in fat injections is actually extracted from the patient's own body. The fat can be taking from the buttocks, abdomen or thighs. The doctor uses a syringe to withdraw the fat from the body and prepares it to be injected into the face, or any other body part that the patient chooses. Nowadays, the fat is used to plump skin by filling in fine lines and wrinkles in the face, neck, underarms and hands.
  
  Some have the misconception that Botox is a wrinkle-filler injection. In actuality, Botox does not fill in wrinkles, instead it paralyzes the muscles and smooths present wrinkles. Botox is also used to combat new wrinkles from forming.
  
  

How Is It Done?

• When considering wrinkle-filler injections, find a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist that specializes in these types of procedures. It is very important to talk everything over with the doctor before choosing which type of wrinkle-filler you may require. You may want to research several products and their side effects, before going to the doctor's office. Ask lots of questions if you are unsure about the procedure.
  
  The doctor will recommend the type of wrinkle-filler injection that is needed for your skin. Collagen is best for smile lines, crow's feet, acne scares and lipstick bleed lines; while fat is optimum for deeper lines. Even if Botox isn't technically a wrinkle-filler, it is a valid solution for removing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
  
  There are other things that you need to be aware of before deciding on a type of filler. One thing to know is that fat injections last longer than collagen and Botox; the latter two have to be done every three to six months to maintain their appearance. Another thing is the cost; collagen costs between $300 and $700, fat costs almost $1000, and Botox injections cost anywhere between $300 and $1000. Depending on your budget, you may want to choose the least expensive solution.
  
  The injection is prepared at the doctor's office. The fat injections take the longest to prepare only because the fat must be extracted first. The filler is loaded into a very fine needed where it is injected into the wrinkle site right up under the skin. For fat and collagen, the effects are usually instantaneous, while Botox takes a couple of days to peak. After the injection, redness and mild irritation is expected. The procedures aren't painful because the needle that is used is so fine.