Evolence is a collagen based dermal filler that received FDA approval in 2008. It is superior to earlier collagen fillers, which did not have structural integrity or durability. Evolence is used to smooth out deeper facial lines and wrinkles, and to soften the nasolabial fold around the mouth.
Myth: Evolence Is a Synthetic Collagen
Fact: Evolence is a natural product that combines porcine collagen with natural sugar molecules. This combination produces a product that is structurally durable. Early collagen fillers contained bovine collagen. Bovine collagen may put you at greater risk for an allergic reaction to the collagen filler. There is also a fear that bovine collagen could come in contact with the infection that causes “mad cow disease.”
Because Evolence contains porcine collagen, your risk of an allergic reaction is very rare. Porcine collagen is similar in structure to human collagen. The extracted porcine collagen undergoes a purification process before it is bound to the sugar molecules. The natural sugar provides the structure to which the collagen adheres to. The result is a fibrous injectable dermal filler that is more stable and natural looking.
Myth: Evolence Is Painful and Dangerous
Fact: Depending upon the location of the treatment site, your doctor may choose to anesthetize the area prior to injection. You may feel some pressure, but you should not feel pain. As with any procedure, there is always a risk of infection. This is very rare among Evolence patients. People who have allergies to pork products are at an increased risk for an allergic reaction to Evolence. Discuss this with your doctor.
It has been proven that Evolence patients suffer less side effects and complications than patients undergoing similar procedures with other dermal fillers. The redness and swelling at Evolence injection sites generally subsides within 24 hours. Bruising is possible, but unlikely.
Your doctor will advise you to stay out of direct sunlight and extreme heat and cold up to 48 hours after treatment. You should also avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol. This is the normal procedure for most dermal fillers.
Myth: Evolence Requires Several Maintenance Injections a Year
Fact: Your doctor may suggest a touch-up treatment 2 to 3 weeks after your initial procedure. By that time, the Evolence will have had time to settle in under the skin. Your doctor will determine if you need an additional application to further smooth out the initial treatment area. Evolence will last at least 12 months or longer. Evolence eliminates the need for multiple maintenance injections throughout the year.
Myth: Evolence Cannot Be Combined with Other Treatments
Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that Evolence cannot be combined with other forms of treatment. You may elect to undergo chemical peels, dermabrasion or microdermabrasion treatments prior to receiving Evolence injections. Evolence will smooth out the deeper lines and wrinkles. Ask your doctor if you are interested in combining light or radio frequency therapy with Evolence. In addition to Evolence, your doctor may suggest the use of alternative fillers in treating finer lines and wrinkles.
