Some are born with them; others develop them slowly over time: skin folds or creases along the sides of the nose (also known as "smile lines"); wrinkles at the corners of the mouth (also known as "marionette lines"); sagging, thinly defined lips. Traditional treatment has been collagen injections. But short-lived results and risk of an allergic reaction have prompted many surgery candidates to shy away from collagen in search of a safer, more predictable and longer-lasting solution.

Softform® facial implants are a superior alternative to collagen in "plumping up" deep facial crease marks and enhancing the shape and fullness of the lips. Made of Gor-tex—a soft, lightweight material that has been proven highly safe through extensive use in medicine—these implants provide permanent results that look and feel natural.

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The Procedure
Although it varies depending on the number of facial implants used, surgery typically takes less than an hour and is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthetic or IV sedation. For every implant, two tiny incisions—one for each end of the implant—are made. Using a special, single-use instrument, the implant is inserted into the second layer of skin (the dermis layer). The hollow, tube-shaped design enables tissue to grow into the implant, thereby securing its position and creating unity with the body.

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Recovery
The sutures are removed in about a week. Swelling, bruising and a sensation of tightness in the treated areas are common in the first week or two of recovery. In general, however, discomfort is minimal and easily controlled with cold compresses and pain medication. Any slight incision lines can usually be hidden with a good concealer, such as Dermablend®, after the first week.

You can expect to return to your normal routine within a day or two of surgery. Though it will go largely unnoticed by others almost immediately, you may be able to feel the implant for several months or longer. Typically, however, the implant slowly softens to a point at which you forget you even have it.