Collagen implants are one of the safest and most widely used forms of facial rejuvenation, and for more than twenty five years one form of injected collagen has led the way: Zyderm / Zyplast. These two collagen compounds were the very first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Agency (FDA) as safe for use in humans, and rapidly became the most widely used form of facial cosmetic rejuvenation in the United States.

The two products are nearly identical, but are intended for slightly different uses. Zyderm is used primarily to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the patient's eyes and mouth; deep wrinkles, creases, frown lines, and scars are the province of Zyplast; it is also often used to add volume to the face and lips. More than 1.5 million people have been treated with Zyderm and Zyplast injections. Zyderm and Zyplast can be used separately or together for a more comprehensive facial treatment.

Unlike more recent collagen fillers, Zyderm and Zyplast implants are not created from manufactured human collagen. The collagen in these two injection implants is made from purified bovine material, derived from a biologically-isolated herd under continuous watch and care by a veterinarian and never exposed to so-called Mad Cow Disease. This safe alternative to human-produced collagen has the advantage of being more widely available and much less costly than custom-made human collagen.

The procedure itself is straightforward: the area to be enhanced is marked, then the Zyderm or Zyplast are injected along with lidocaine, which helps to numb the area. Within minutes the treatment is over; no recovery time is needed. Since the collagen implants will, in time, be absorbed into the body, the procedure must be repeated every three to six months. The known side effects of Zyderm and Zyplast are minimal: some localized tenderness, redness, swelling and or bruising in the treated area, all of which usually goes away within a day or two.

Zyderm and Zyplast are effective and safe cosmetic procedures; nevertheless, prospective patients should seek consultation with a licensed medical provider prior to making a decision regarding a treatment program.