Cymetra for Lines and Wrinkles

Created by LifeCell Corporation, Cymetra is a micronized particulate form of AlloDerm, a soft tissue filler derived from donated human skin tissue. Used to enhance the lips or to fill in scars, deep wrinkles, and facial lines that develop with age and overexposure to the sun, Cymetra has been on the market since 1999.

The collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, and proteins in Cymetra initiate cell regrowth and repopulation at the area of injection. In addition to these benefits, these materials help the body integrate the donor tissue into the patient’s own system. Because Cymetra is human tissue based, this dermal filler is metabolically compatible with patients' own body so there is no risk of an allergic reaction. Furthermore, states LifeCell Corporation, since the FDA has classified this product as human tissue, FDA approval is unnecessary. However, like other human tissue products which have been approved for use on the market, the tissue used in Cymetra has met the standards of both the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB) , a tissue regulatory agency, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Treatment with Cymetra, like other injectable materials, is rather simple. According to eMedicine.com, an informational sister site of WebMD, prior to injection, the AlloDerm which constitutes Cymetra is rehydrated with the anesthetic lidocaine in the physician's office. Because it is human-derived, no skin test is required. Following rehydration, the material is injected into the treatment area after which point the patient can go about his or her normal activities. The entire procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. Side effects of treatment with Cymetra include bruising, redness, and swelling. The results of injections with Cymetra, according to eMedicine.com, can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months.

The cost of injections with Cymetra may vary depending upon the size of the area being treated as well as the severity of the problem. According to lipaugmentation.com, a website which provides information about lip augmentation and injectable treatments, the average cost of injections is $600-$900 per 1 cc or $1,500 per 2 cc.