How safe are organic implants?
The common organic implants have proven to be relatively safe non-surgical options for the treatment of many skin contour problems, such as wrinkles and furrows.

Hylaform viscoelastic gel is a relatively new implant material so it does not have the track record of such products as Zyderm and Zyplast. However, two decades of investigation would suggest that it will be safe and effective for soft tissue augmentation as it is biologically compatible and stable in dermal tissue. Of interest it also promises to be of importance in other areas of medicine including orthopaedics, ophthalmology, and urology.

The types of problems which may arise from organic implants include:

• Allergic reactions: In 1 to 2% of cases organic implants, with the exception of   Hylaform and Restylane implants and microlipid transfers, are regarded by the body as   foreign and rejected in an allergic reaction. If there is a history of allergies to the   ingredients within the implant solution, or if an allergic reaction occurs at a test site on   the arm, implant therapy should not be undertaken. Allergic reactions are characterized   by prolonged redness, swelling, itching, and firmness. A reaction usually persists for 3   to 4 months, lasting perhaps a year or longer in more severe cases. On very rare   occasions, a scab may form with the subsequent sloughing or shedding of the skin at   the treatment site. This may result in a shallow scar.

Delayed allergic reactions may occur even though the test site was found to be normal and one or more implants were successfully injected. For this reason, some physicians repeat the test within a month. If no allergic reaction occurs after the second test, the implants are then injected into the areas requiring treatment.

If a reaction is caused by one type of implant, it is possible another could be used once all signs indicate the previous implant has been absorbed. For example, Zyderm and Zyplast contains a local anesthetic, whereas matrix implants do not. Although a local anesthetic is in most cases beneficial, those allergic to it may wish to try the Koken or Fibrel implants.