Bio Stimulators

Bio stimulators (also known as collagen stimulators) are a type of semi-permanent dermal filler which work to stimulate the body’s collagen production to restore facial volume and improve skin structure.

Suitable for

Volume loss, thinning skin, natural facial enhancement, skin tightening

Cost

Practitioner dependent, please see FAQs below

Downtime

2-7 days

Longevity

Up to 24 to 36 months following a full treatment course

Time

15 to 30 minutes

Pregnancy Safe?

No

collagen stimulators consultation 1
As we age, the face loses volume and structure due to fat loss, ligament laxity and changes to the bony skeleton of the face.

Bio stimulator fillers can work to replace this lost volume and revitalise and rejuvenate the entire face. These treatments do not target specific areas or fill specific deficits like traditional dermal fillers and are used for a natural and long-lasting result.

Due to strict Australian TGA rules regarding advertising prescription medications, we are unable to name the brand of collagen stimulator used at Youth Lab. This product contains a substance which has been used in medicine for decades (over 30 years). It is also the same active product as in some Thread Lifts and absorbable surgical sutures.

The product is biodegradable and biocompatible with a low-risk profile. Once injected into the skin, these microparticles work to stimulate collagen production over time, restoring structure and support of the skin and improving overall facial volume.

Collagen stimulators work to restore and enhance and will not drastically change your appearance. The results are long-lasting up to 3 years when following the initial treatment plan.

collagen stimulators injection
Bio stimulators are best used for a total facial rejuvenation and volume restoration.

It can improve volume in areas of skin depressions and creases such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines, replace volume and improve contours in the cheeks and temples, improve skin quality and tighten facial skin, improve the appearance of cellulite and can also be used for large areas of volume loss (lipoatrophy).

FAQ's

What does the treatment involve?

Prior to any treatment, a thorough consultation and treatment planning with your doctor or nurse will determine your suitability to the treatment and assess expectations. Clinical photography and skin assessment will also take place.

It is important to note that collagen stimulator treatments provide a gradual result (over 3 months) with multiple initial treatments needed to give the best result. This treatment is for those who want a subtle and natural rejuvenation as there is no immediate ‘filling’ effect like with traditional dermal fillers.

During the treatment, the solution will be injected into the areas of concern – either with a needle or a blunt microcannula. The average amount for an initial treatment is 2-3 vials of collagen stimulator. The procedure is comfortable and topical anaesthesia will be applied.

There will be an immediate correction and improvement in facial appearance due to the volume of the solution being injected and this is often a good gauge of what the end result of treatment will be. This will resolve within a few hours to days, as the water in the solution reabsorbs. Once the collagen stimulator has been injected a tissue inflammatory response is initiated which boosts natural collagen production.

After the treatment, your doctor or nurse will massage the area firmly to ensure distribution of the product and many patients find they can go about their day without any downtime.

How long do results last?

Following the initial effect which slowly resolves, the collagen production takes approximately 8 to 12 weeks. Results are usually evident at this time with the maximal result at 6 to 8 months. The results are gradual and natural.

During your consultation your doctor or nurse will determine how many treatments you may require. Generally 2-3 treatments are needed for optimal results and many patients find after this they only need one treatment every 2-3 years.

The number of treatments will depend on your age, severity of volume loss and desired results.

A second treatment is required at 6-8 weeks usually of the same amount of product or a bit less with a third treatment often needed 6-8 weeks after the second (usually only 1 vial at this stage). By completing a full treatment course results are expected to last 24-36 months.

Here is an example of a treatment plan:

  • First treatment – 2 to 3 vials of collagen stimulator
  • Second treatment at 6 weeks – 2 vials of collagen stimulator
  • Third treatment at 6 weeks (12 weeks after first treatment) – 1 vial of collagen stimulator (for those with significant volume loss)
  • Maintenance treatment 2 years after first treatment – 1-2 vials of collagen stimulator

What happens after my treatment?

The aftercare following collagen stimulators is vitally important and not following the aftercare regime can affect the results of the treatment.

Immediately following the treatment there may be some generalized tenderness and discomfort which can be improved by a cool compress and paracetamol. Bruising is an expected effect of any injectable procedure and can be minimized by avoiding blood thinning medications and alcohol. This will be discussed at length at your initial consultation. Avoid sun exposure, heat inducing activities and makeup for 24 hours after treatment.

The most important part of the after care is facial massage. You are required to firmly massage the treatment area for 5 minutes, 5 times per day for 5 days after the treatment. This is to minimize any adverse effects and to evenly distribute the product.

Full aftercare instructions will be provided following the treatment.

What are the risks of treatment?

Collagen stimulators have been in Australia since 2002 and have a long safety record. There are expected side effects with any cosmetic injectable treatment such as local swelling, redness, tenderness and bruising which are self limiting and will not affect the end result of the treatment.

Rare complications may include lumpiness or nodule formation (primarily from not massaging during the week after treatment), the formation of granulomas, infection and inadvertent injection of the product into blood vessels causing tissue necrosis.

Like other dermal filler injections, collagen stimulators cannot be given to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have taken a course of Roaccutane in the last 3 months, have a history of auto-immune diseases or multiple allergies. No allergy testing is required prior to treatment.

All risks and contraindications will be discussed prior to performing any procedure.

What are the costs?

  • Pricing starts at $849 per vial
  • 2 vials for initial treatment for full face. Pricing starts at $1599 (50% deposit is required on booking).
  • 3 vials for initial treatment for full face and neck. Pricing starts at $2399 (50% deposit is required on booking).

Full quote provided on request for other treatment areas such as hands, knees, abdomen, buttocks, and hips.