Combating photoaging with percutaneous collagen induction.
Medical clinicians are used to being consulted by patients who want to restore their youthful appearance. Although structural changes to the face and body may be achieved with surgery, for example, face lifts, the impression of youth also relies heavily on young-looking skin. It is desirable to have thicker and tighter skin to properly fulfill the desire for youth. Percutaneous collagen induction offers an antiaging effect to improve the appearance of old skin. It allows us to improve our patients' skin from the inside outward as well as from the surface. Experience has shown that percutaneous collagen induction works optimally when combined with a scientific skin care program to restore a youthful appearance. In addition, the same technique has proven to be very effective in minimizing acne scars and burn scars by removing scar collagen and replacing it with normal collagen. Consequently, scar contractures and depressed scars are improved. With the introduction of percutaneous collagen induction therapy in 1997, a simple and fast method was developed with regard to safely treating wrinkles and scars and producing lasting smoothness. As opposed to ablative laser treatments, the epidermis remains intact and is not damaged. For this reason, the operation can be safely repeated if needed, and it can be also applicable to regions where laser treatments or deep peelings cannot be done.
Fernandes
Desmond
D
The Renaissance Surgical Clinic and Department of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 8001, South Africa. des@drdes.co.za
Signorini
Massimo
M
D003094:Collagen / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation; D006801:Humans; D009339:Needles; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D012867:Skin; D015595:Skin Aging; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects*
D003094:Collagen