Wrinkles are the result of the depletion of active fibroblast cells in the skin which give it its elastic quality. The density of these collagen-producing cells steadily diminishes causing the skin to wrinkle and age with time. Collagen is the naturally produced protein that helps comprise the second layer of skin. Collagen takes the form or a structure of fibres acting as a framework in supporting the skin. The particular cells responsible for producing collagen are called fibroblasts. Isologen is a relatively new technology involving the patient's own body tissue, is designed to treat wrinkles, lines, folds and severe acne scars by cultivating and injecting patients with fresh fibroblasts, grown from their existing cells. The Isolagen process requires a simple biopsy before implanting large numbers of robust, fresh laboratory-grown fibroblasts to fill out the wrinkles and boost collagen as they re-integrate within the skin. A particularly versatile technology, Isologen can be used in treating all over the face, and makes use of the patient's own bodily tissues.

The Isolagen treatment begins with a basic procedure to remove a small piece of skin tissue from behind the ear. A localized anesthetic is administered (similar to the anesthetic administered by dentists) before the tissue is swiftly removed and a single dressing or suture put in place to seal the wound. The skin tissue is then sent to a laboratory where it is cultivated to produce tens of millions of fresh fibroblast cells. After approximately six to eight weeks, the cells are sent back to the physician who will subsequently administer these in a series of injections with an ultra fine needle.

Specifics of Treament

The Isolagen procedure is the only treatment to substantially strengthen the inner layers of skin. Used in combination with laser treatment and chemical peels, which work by removing the damaged outer layers of the skin, these treatments comprise a total revitalization programme, aiding to reduce the sings of ageing and replenish tired skin cells.

The procedure is relatively painless, comparable to the sensation associated with a standard injection. To further reduce discomfort, the physician can utilize a local anesthetic cream that will minimize the sensation of the injection. In particularly sensitive areas, for example around the lips, a local anesthetic can also be administered by injection to numb the area.

The Isolagen treatment is based on natural skin production techniques and consequently the improvement is gradual. In the majority of cases, results can be seen within three to four months, and further treatment is recommended every two to three years to maintain the effects. Each additional treatment also serves to aggregate the effects, thus allowing for even further improvements in skin condition with repeated treatments. Once the tissue is in the laboratory, it can be used to manufacture tens of millions of revitalized, fresh cells which can be frozen and stored indefinitely at the patient's discretion.

Once the patient has received fresh fibroblasts, they can be easily stimulated further to produce additional collagen by various additional processes. These include lighter chemical peels, non-ablative laser therapy and stimulating creams.

Risks

As with all medical procedures, there is an element of risk and the potential for complications. Despite the comparatively smaller risks, there are potential for some patients to experience complications or side effects of a minor, but nonetheless uncomfortable nature. Some patients experience a degree of tenderness and pain around the injection sites, which usually diminishes within several days. In a very small number of cases (around one in one thousand) problems arise in relation to hypersensitivity to the injection, although this is very rare.

It is normally recommended that patients receive a programme of two injections, however additional treatments may be necessary to tackle deeper wrinkles or scars. Normally a course of two injections is recommended; however, in cases where the wrinkles are particularly deep, extra sessions may be required. Additional treatment with lasers and chemical peels have also been found to be beneficial. The physician will give specific advice at the outset as to the probable duration of the individuals course of Isolagen treatment. Only one skin sample is necessary, as cells can be cryogenically stored for as long as is necessary, and the Isolagen treatment can repeated as many times as is desired because it is a wholly natural method of replenishing tired skin cells.

By nature, all medical procedures carry an element of risk. Before embarking on any medical procedure, it is advisable to consult fully with the Mclean Academy so that our qualified staff can suitably discuss any risk or concerns that your procedure may pose. Isologen is a non surgical procedure with very minimal risks.