Zyderm® - Dermal Fillers

They were introduced in the early 1980’s and until today remain widely used in over 40 countries with one million treatments having been undertaken. Due to the requirement of tests before treatment, its use has considerably reduced in the UK as a result of newly introduced products that do not require such tests. It is generically composed of Bovine dermal collagen plus 0.3% lignocaine and is made from cow skins.

Recommended tests before treatment should be performed four weeks prior to the treatment by administration of Collagen Test Implant, intradermally into the volar forearm. This is for determination the possibility of the patient developing sensitivity o the implants. Recorded results from tests performed indicate that 97 % and 70 % of treated men and women can undergo the treatment with Zyderm® and Zyplast® implants. It is temporary in lasting since the collagen breaks down totally over time to a point where no trace of the filler can be found, hence repeat treatment is necessary. It should only be used by medical professions and is licensed as a medical device. Product ranges include Zyderm® 1 implant, Zyderm® 2 implant and Zyplast® which is cross-linked with the chemical glutaraldehyde specifically for strengthening the collagen fibers. These brands should not be applied in people likely to develop reactions as per the skin tests or even formerly existing allergies especially related to collagen products, patients with severe anaphylactic reactions who in which case must never use Zyderm® or Zyplast® Collagen. In case a patient is scheduled to undertake desensitization injections for meat products, then avoid treatment with these products. Known cases of hypersensitivity to lignocaine must not be treated, breastfeeding and pregnant women as well.

Effects will last for a period dependent on lifestyle and implant placement. Expected effects are transient erythema (redness), pain, swelling, itching, implant area tenderness and discoloration. In some cases, injected collagen can show on the skin as a small area, raised or white at the region of treatment.Other areas can resist the placement and result in some elevation alongside the defect. There have been 1-2% cases of allergic reactions consisting of long lasting redness, swelling, itching plus firmness in treated areas with ability to develop cyst-like reaction that can drain and form a scar. These can last 9 months normally but can also involve intermittent flare-ups lasting up to 24 months. Credible tests for safety determination were carried out between 1976 and 1981 and the product was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Costs range around f £100 - £400.