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The collagen in Evolence is extracted porcine collagen which is then suspended in
a solution of phosphate-buffered saline that has been “cross-linked” using a natural
sugar, D-Ribose. The effectiveness of this type of collagen is not that surprising.
Porcine-derived collagen is genetically similar to human collagen and has a long
history of being safely used in various medical procedures, including heart valve
replacement surgery.
Although relatively new to the United States (Food and Drug Administration approval
was bestowed in 2008), Evolence has been correcting facial wrinkles for several
years in Europe, Canada, and Israel.
How does it work?
Collagen makes up about 80 percent of the dry weight of the dermis layer of your
skin; it provides the skin its structure and support. As you age, you gradually
lose collagen, a process that can be sped up by such factors as genetics, sun exposure,
and smoking. Without a strong collagen “scaffolding,” your skin droops, forming
lines, wrinkles, and folds. Your face also takes on a different, older-looking shape
and contour.
Evolence replaces the lost collagen. By restoring the skin’s underlying structure,
the filler smoothes out the wrinkles above it. Volume returns—and with it a more
youthful shape to your face.
Evolence is too thick for lip enhancement, although a thinner version is used for
that purpose in other countries and may receive FDA approval soon.
What is the treatment like?
Because Evolence’s collagen is natural, there’s no need to worry about an allergic
reaction—and thus no need to undergo allergy testing before the treatment. This
is a big difference between Evolence and past types of cosmetic collagen fillers.
If you have had an allergic reaction to previous collagen injections, you should
discuss this with your doctor, however.
Treatment takes about 15 minutes. A very fine needle is used for the injections.
To minimize any discomfort, you may be given (or request) a topical local anesthetic.
You can return immediately to your daily activities. Some physicians have found
that Evolence results in less bruising or swelling than other dermal fillers. If
these symptoms do appear, they’re usually resolved within a few days. In rare cases,
temporary lumps, or areas of firmness, form under the skin at the treatment site.
These are usually gone within a week or two.
Evolence’s safety in people who are susceptible to hyperpigmentation, hypertrophic
scarring and keloid formation hasn’t been established yet.
How long do the treatments last?
At least 6 months. Clinical trials in Europe have found that Evolence’s effects
can last up to 12 months in some people, but those studies have not been analyzed
or confirmed by the FDA.
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