What is the Best Collagen Injection for Face?

I remember Sarah, a vibrant woman in her late forties, sitting across from me in my consultation room. She ran a successful graphic design firm, but lately, every time she caught her reflection, she saw not the energetic go-getter she felt inside, but a face that looked increasingly tired, a bit hollow, and definitely showing those tell-tale signs of volume loss and crepey skin. “I just want to look like myself again,” she confessed, a hint of frustration in her voice. “Not twenty, but definitely not like my skin’s forgotten how to bounce back. I keep hearing about ‘collagen injections.’ Is there even such a thing, and what in the world is the best one for my face?” Sarah’s question is one I hear almost daily, and it perfectly encapsulates the quest for youthful, resilient skin.

So, to answer Sarah’s question, and yours: When people talk about the “best collagen injection for face,” they are typically referring to modern injectable treatments that *stimulate your body’s natural collagen production*, rather than simply injecting collagen itself. While direct collagen fillers once existed, the true game-changers today are powerful biostimulators like Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA), known as Sculptra, and Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA), found in Radiesse. These aren’t just fillers; they are architects, prompting your own skin to rebuild its foundational support, leading to natural, long-lasting rejuvenation. The “best” one truly depends on your specific goals, the areas you want to treat, and your individual skin’s needs, all of which we’ll delve into.

Understanding Collagen Loss: The Silent Saboteur of Youthful Skin

Before we dive into how to put collagen back, let’s first get a handle on why we lose it. Collagen, you see, is like the scaffolding of our skin. It’s a protein, the most abundant one in our bodies actually, providing structure, firmness, and elasticity. Think of a brand-new mattress – firm, supportive, springs all intact. That’s young skin, brimming with healthy collagen.

As we get older, usually starting in our mid-twenties, our bodies begin to produce less collagen, and the existing collagen breaks down more rapidly. It’s a natural process, unfortunately. Each year, we might lose about 1% of our collagen, and that really adds up over time. This decline isn’t just about age; it’s accelerated by a whole host of environmental factors that, let’s be honest, are pretty hard to avoid. Sun exposure, pollution, smoking, chronic stress, even our diet can play a significant role. Suddenly, that firm mattress starts to sag, the springs lose their bounce, and you begin to notice things like fine lines, wrinkles, skin laxity, and that dreaded loss of volume that makes faces look tired and older. Cheeks can hollow out, jawlines soften, and the overall complexion might just seem a little less vibrant. Understanding this fundamental process is key to appreciating how these injectable treatments work to turn back the clock, not just cover up the signs.

Collagen Injections vs. Collagen Stimulators: A Crucial Distinction

Now, this is an important point where many folks get a little tangled up, and understandably so! When someone asks about “collagen injections,” they’re often thinking about direct collagen replacement. You know, literally taking collagen and injecting it into the skin to fill lines. And for a while, back in the day, that’s exactly what happened.

The Era of Direct Collagen Fillers: A Look Back

Years ago, products like Zyderm and Zyplast were the go-to. These were bovine (cow) collagen products, and they worked by directly plumping up lines and wrinkles. They offered immediate results, which was certainly appealing. However, they came with a few notable caveats. For one, because they were animal-derived, a skin allergy test was often required beforehand to ensure patients wouldn’t react. And perhaps more significantly, the results were relatively short-lived, often only lasting a few months before the body naturally absorbed the injected collagen. As newer, longer-lasting, and more versatile fillers emerged, direct collagen fillers gradually faded from mainstream use, largely replaced by superior alternatives.

The Rise of Collagen Stimulators: The Modern, Game-Changing Approach

Today, when a cosmetic professional talks about “collagen injections” for facial rejuvenation, what they’re almost always referring to are sophisticated products called collagen stimulators or biostimulatory fillers. This is a crucial distinction, because these aren’t just temporary band-aids. These are treatments designed to harness your body’s own incredible regenerative power. Instead of merely filling a space with an external substance, these injectables introduce biocompatible materials that, over time, provoke your fibroblasts (the cells responsible for producing collagen) to kick into high gear and produce *your own new collagen*. It’s like sending a wake-up call to your skin, reminding it how to be youthful again. The beauty of this approach is that the results are often incredibly natural-looking, gradually improving over weeks and months, and can last significantly longer than traditional fillers.

This distinction is absolutely vital for anyone considering facial rejuvenation. We’re not just patching things up; we’re actively encouraging your skin to rebuild itself from within. That, in my professional opinion, is where the real magic happens and why these treatments are so highly regarded in modern aesthetics.

The Modern Arsenal: Exploring Top Collagen Stimulators for the Face

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the treatments that are truly making waves in the world of collagen stimulation. These are the heavy-hitters you’ll likely encounter when discussing the “best collagen injection for face” with a qualified practitioner.

Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA): The Architect – Sculptra

When it comes to serious, long-term collagen building, Poly-L-Lactic Acid, most famously known as Sculptra, is often the first name that comes to mind. This isn’t your typical hyaluronic acid filler; it’s in a league of its own.

What is Sculptra and How Does it Work?

Sculptra is made of a synthetic, biocompatible, and biodegradable material called PLLA, which has been used safely in medical devices for decades, think dissolvable sutures. When injected into the deeper layers of the skin, PLLA microparticles don’t immediately plump up the area. Instead, they act as tiny triggers, stimulating your body’s own natural collagen production around each particle. Over several weeks and months, your fibroblasts respond by weaving new collagen fibers, gradually restoring volume and improving the skin’s internal structure.

Ideal Areas and Expected Results

Sculptra is a fantastic choice for addressing generalized facial volume loss, deep folds, and overall skin laxity. Think about areas like:

• Hollowed temples
• Cheeks that have lost their youthful contour
• Nasolabial folds (smile lines) and marionette lines
• Jawline definition and jowls
• Chin wrinkles

The results are not immediate, and this is something I always emphasize. You typically need a series of 2-4 treatment sessions, spaced about 4-6 weeks apart, and then the magic truly begins to unfold over the next few months. Patients often report seeing significant improvement in skin thickness, firmness, and elasticity, with results that can last for two years or even longer. It’s a subtle, gradual transformation that looks incredibly natural, as if you’ve simply aged gracefully in reverse.

The Treatment Process and Aftercare

A Sculptra treatment involves a series of injections, often mixed with lidocaine for comfort. Post-treatment, the most crucial step is the “5-5-5 Rule” for aftercare: massage the treated areas for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days. This helps to distribute the product evenly and minimize the risk of nodule formation. Mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness are common, but generally subside within a few days.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA): The Dual-Action Builder – Radiesse

Another powerful player in the collagen stimulation arena is Calcium Hydroxylapatite, most commonly found in the product Radiesse. Radiesse offers a fantastic combination of immediate volume correction and long-term collagen stimulation.

What is Radiesse and How Does it Work?

Radiesse consists of tiny, smooth CaHA microspheres suspended in a water-based gel carrier. When injected, the gel provides immediate volume and lift, correcting wrinkles and folds right away. But that’s not all! Over time, the gel carrier is absorbed by the body, leaving behind the CaHA microspheres. These microspheres then act as a scaffold, stimulating your body to produce new collagen around them. Eventually, the CaHA particles themselves are safely metabolized by the body, leaving behind your newly generated collagen.

Ideal Areas and Expected Results

Radiesse is incredibly versatile and shines in areas where both immediate correction and sustained collagen growth are desired. It’s often used for:

• Deep nasolabial folds
• Marionette lines
• Pre-jowl folds
• Cheek augmentation and contouring
• Hand rejuvenation (often overlooked but impactful!)
• Defining the jawline

One of the appealing aspects of Radiesse is that you get an immediate visual improvement from the gel, which then transitions into the longer-lasting results from your own collagen production. Results typically last a year or more, making it a highly cost-effective and satisfying option for many.

The Treatment Process and Aftercare

Radiesse injections are straightforward, often mixed with lidocaine for comfort. You’ll see some immediate plumping. Aftercare is generally simple, focusing on avoiding strenuous activity for a day or two and managing any minor swelling or bruising with cold compresses. Unlike Sculptra, extensive massage isn’t usually required.

Polydioxanone (PDO) Threads: The Lifting Stimulators

While not an “injection” in the traditional sense, PDO threads deserve a mention in the collagen stimulation discussion because they play a unique role and contribute significantly to facial rejuvenation by prompting collagen production.

What are PDO Threads and How Do They Work?

PDO threads are dissolvable sutures, similar to those used in surgical procedures, that are skillfully inserted into the skin to provide a subtle lift and support. There are various types: “mono” threads (smooth), “screw” threads (coiled), and “barbed” threads (which have tiny barbs to lift and anchor tissue). The threads themselves physically lift sagging skin, creating an immediate, albeit subtle, improvement. Crucially, as the threads naturally dissolve over 4-6 months, they create a “healing response” that stimulates your body to produce new collagen around them. This newly formed collagen matrix then continues to provide support and firmness long after the threads have vanished.

Ideal Areas and Expected Results

PDO threads are excellent for addressing mild to moderate skin laxity and for subtly enhancing contours. They are frequently used for:

• Lifting the mid-face and cheeks
• Defining the jawline and reducing jowls
• Brow lifting
• Smoothing neck wrinkles
• Improving fine lines around the eyes or mouth

You’ll see some immediate lifting from the threads, with the full collagen-building effects becoming apparent over the next few months as the threads dissolve. Results can last anywhere from 12-18 months, depending on the number and type of threads used, and individual factors.

The Treatment Process and Aftercare

The procedure involves numbing the treatment area and then carefully inserting the threads using fine needles or cannulas. Some mild discomfort, bruising, and swelling are common afterward. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities, excessive facial expressions, and certain sleeping positions for a few weeks to allow the threads to settle. Recovery is generally manageable, but it’s important to follow your provider’s specific instructions meticulously.

Other Biostimulants and Hybrid Fillers

It’s also worth noting that the field is constantly evolving. Some traditional hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, while primarily volume providers, can also have a mild biostimulatory effect over time. There are also newer “hybrid” fillers emerging that combine properties, but PLLA and CaHA remain the gold standard for dedicated, potent collagen stimulation.

Choosing Your Collagen Boost: Factors to Consider

With so many excellent options, how do you decide what’s “best” for *your* face? It truly isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. From my perspective, it’s about aligning your desires with the science and art of aesthetic medicine. Here’s a checklist of critical factors to mull over with your practitioner:

• Your Aesthetic Goals:
  • Are you looking for significant volume restoration in hollowed areas (like temples or cheeks)? Sculptra might be a stronger contender.
  • Do you want immediate wrinkle correction *plus* long-term collagen building for deep folds? Radiesse could be a great fit.
  • Is your primary concern mild to moderate sagging and a desire for subtle lift and improved skin texture? PDO threads might be ideal.
  • Are you aiming for a subtle, gradual improvement that looks incredibly natural, or a more immediate “wow” factor?
• Area of Treatment: Different products are optimized for different facial zones. While there’s overlap, some are better suited for specific depths and tissue types.
• Desired Longevity of Results: Collagen stimulators generally offer longer-lasting results (1-2+ years) compared to traditional HA fillers (6-18 months), which is a huge draw for many. Be prepared for the commitment to the full treatment series for optimal results with Sculptra, for instance.
• Downtime and Recovery: While generally minimal, each treatment has its nuances. Sculptra requires the 5-5-5 massage rule. PDO threads might involve a bit more swelling or tightness initially. Understand what you’re signing up for.
• Cost: Collagen stimulating treatments, especially a full course of Sculptra, represent a significant investment. However, considering their longevity, they can be quite cost-effective over time. Discuss pricing and payment plans upfront.
• Provider Expertise: This is arguably the most critical factor. The skill and experience of your injector dramatically impact the safety and efficacy of the treatment. Look for board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons with extensive experience in injectable biostimulators. Ask to see before-and-after photos of their own patients. A true expert understands facial anatomy, product characteristics, and injection techniques inside and out.
• Your Medical History: Always disclose your full medical history, including allergies, medications, and previous cosmetic procedures. Certain conditions or medications might contraindicate treatment.

My advice? Don’t walk into a clinic demanding a specific product. Instead, articulate your concerns and desired outcomes, and let a qualified professional guide you through the options, explaining the pros and cons of each for your unique situation. A comprehensive consultation is non-negotiable.

The Treatment Journey: What to Expect

Embarking on a collagen-stimulating journey is exciting! Knowing what to expect every step of the way can ease any anxieties. Here’s a general roadmap:

The Initial Consultation

This is where it all begins. Your practitioner will:

1. Discuss Your Goals: What bothers you? What do you hope to achieve?
2. Assess Your Facial Anatomy: They’ll evaluate your skin quality, volume loss, bone structure, and overall facial symmetry.
3. Review Your Medical History: Crucial for safety and to rule out contraindications.
4. Explain Treatment Options: They’ll detail which collagen stimulator or combination of treatments might be best for you, along with expected outcomes, costs, and potential risks.
5. Take Before Photos: Essential for tracking your progress.

Pre-Treatment Preparations

To minimize bruising, you’ll typically be advised to:

• Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and Vitamin E for about a week prior (unless medically necessary – always consult your doctor first).
• Refrain from alcohol for 24-48 hours before your appointment.
• Stay well-hydrated.

The Injection Process

On the day of your treatment:

• The treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed.
• A topical numbing cream may be applied, or the product might be mixed with lidocaine for comfort.
• Your practitioner will strategically inject the chosen product using a fine needle or a blunt-tipped cannula. They’ll likely mark the injection sites beforehand.
• The process itself is usually quick, often taking 15-45 minutes depending on the areas treated.

Post-Treatment Care

Immediate aftercare is crucial for optimal results and minimal side effects:

• Cold Compresses: Apply gently to reduce swelling and bruising.
• Avoid Strenuous Activity: For 24-48 hours, depending on the treatment.
• Avoid Touching/Massaging (unless instructed): Specifically for Sculptra, remember the “5-5-5” massage rule. For other fillers, avoid manipulating the treated area.
• Keep Head Elevated: Especially during sleep for the first night or two.
• Avoid Sun Exposure: Protect your skin, especially if bruising is present.

Results Timeline

This is where collagen stimulators differ significantly from immediate fillers:

• Immediate: With Radiesse, you’ll see some instant volume. With Sculptra, there might be temporary swelling that gives a ‘full’ look, which will subside.
• Weeks 4-12: This is when your body really starts to ramp up collagen production. You’ll begin to notice subtle improvements in skin texture and firmness.
• Months 3-6 (and beyond): The full effects become evident. Volume is gradually restored, and skin quality improves. This is why patience is key!
• Maintenance: Depending on the product, annual or bi-annual touch-ups might be recommended to maintain your fantastic results.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

Like any medical procedure, collagen injections and stimulators come with potential side effects. It’s important to have a realistic understanding of these, which your practitioner will discuss in detail during your consultation.

Common, Mild, and Temporary Side Effects:

• Swelling: Very common, typically subsides within a few days.
• Bruising: Also common, can last from a few days to two weeks. Using a cold compress can help.
• Redness: Usually resolves within hours to a day.
• Tenderness or Soreness: At the injection sites, which can last a few days.
• Lumps or Bumps: These are usually temporary and palpable but not visible. With Sculptra, proper massage is essential to prevent persistent nodules.

Less Common, More Serious Risks:

• Allergic Reaction: Though rare with modern synthetic products, it’s a possibility.
• Infection: Always a risk when the skin barrier is broken, but stringent sterile techniques minimize this.
• Nodule Formation: While mild, temporary bumps are common, persistent, visible nodules can occur, particularly with Sculptra if not properly massaged. These are generally treatable.
• Vascular Occlusion: This is the most serious, though incredibly rare, complication where filler is accidentally injected into a blood vessel, potentially leading to tissue death (necrosis) or, in extremely rare cases, blindness. This risk is minimized by highly skilled injectors who understand facial anatomy and use safe injection techniques (like aspirating or using cannulas).

The vast majority of people experience only mild, temporary side effects. Choosing an experienced, board-certified practitioner who uses proper techniques and has a deep understanding of facial anatomy significantly mitigates the risks. Always ensure your injector is someone you trust implicitly and who can manage any potential complications swiftly and effectively.

My Expert Take: Navigating Your Options

Having witnessed the incredible evolution of aesthetic treatments over the years, I can confidently say that collagen stimulators represent one of the most exciting and impactful advancements for facial rejuvenation. They offer something truly special: a way to tap into your body’s innate ability to heal and rebuild. It’s not about looking “done” or artificial; it’s about restoring a more youthful, refreshed version of *you*.

In my opinion, the “best collagen injection for face” isn’t a single product, but rather the *strategy* that leverages these incredible biostimulators. For significant, diffuse volume loss and overall skin quality improvement, Sculptra is often unparalleled. If you’re looking for that immediate gratification combined with lasting collagen production, Radiesse really shines. And for that subtle lift and texture refinement, especially for areas like the jawline or brows, PDO threads can be wonderfully effective. Often, the most stunning results come from a thoughtful combination of these treatments, tailored precisely to your unique facial architecture and concerns.

The key takeaway I always share with my patients is this: Patience is your partner in this journey. Collagen building takes time. The results are gradual, elegant, and exceptionally natural-looking because they are *your own collagen*. This isn’t a quick fix, but a profound investment in your skin’s future health and vitality.

Ultimately, your decision should stem from an in-depth, honest conversation with a highly qualified, experienced aesthetic practitioner. They are the artists and scientists who can assess your needs, explain the nuances of each option, and craft a personalized treatment plan that truly unlocks your skin’s potential. Don’t chase trends; seek expertise, embrace the process, and enjoy the beautiful, subtle transformation that your own body, with a little help, can achieve.

Comparison Table: Collagen Stimulators at a Glance

To help visualize the differences between these powerful treatments, here’s a quick overview:

Frequently Asked Questions About Collagen Injections for the Face

How long do collagen injections typically last?

The longevity of “collagen injections” – or more accurately, collagen stimulators – really depends on the specific product used. Unlike older, direct collagen fillers which only lasted a few months, modern biostimulatory treatments offer much more enduring results.

For instance, Sculptra (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) is renowned for its long-lasting effects, often maintaining results for two years or even beyond, because it prompts your body to build its own new collagen. Radiesse (Calcium Hydroxylapatite) typically provides results that last between 12 to 18 months. PDO threads, while dissolving in about 4-6 months, leave behind a collagen matrix that can provide support and improved skin quality for 12 to 18 months. It’s truly a long-term investment in your skin’s health, and the gradual, natural improvement means you’ll look refreshed, not drastically altered.

Are collagen injections painful?

Patient comfort is a top priority in modern aesthetic treatments, so “collagen injections” are generally quite tolerable. Most practitioners use a multi-pronged approach to minimize discomfort.

First, topical numbing creams are often applied to the treatment area before injections begin, which significantly reduces sensation. Many collagen stimulators, like Sculptra and Radiesse, are also mixed with lidocaine, a local anesthetic, directly into the product syringe. This means the area gets numbed as the product is injected. While you might still feel some pressure, a mild stinging sensation, or a slight pinch, it’s typically far from what most people would describe as painful. PDO thread procedures also involve local anesthetic to ensure comfort during insertion. Discuss your pain tolerance with your provider; they can always adjust their approach to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

Can I combine collagen injections with other aesthetic treatments?

Absolutely, and in many cases, combining treatments is how we achieve the most comprehensive and natural-looking facial rejuvenation! A holistic approach often yields superior results because different treatments target different aspects of aging.

For example, you might use a collagen stimulator like Sculptra to address overall volume loss and skin laxity, and then complement that with hyaluronic acid fillers for precise contouring or to fill specific, finer lines. Neuromodulators like Botox or Xeomin can effectively relax dynamic wrinkles, while laser treatments or chemical peels can improve skin texture, tone, and surface irregularities. The key is to have a skilled practitioner who can create a customized treatment plan that integrates these modalities thoughtfully, ensuring they work synergistically to address all your concerns without overdoing it. A well-planned combination can really elevate your results and provide a truly refreshed appearance.

Who is an ideal candidate for collagen injections?

An ideal candidate for collagen-stimulating injections is typically someone who is starting to notice signs of aging, such as mild to moderate facial volume loss, skin laxity, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They are often in their late 30s, 40s, 50s, or even older, and are looking for a natural-looking rejuvenation that restores their skin’s underlying structure.

Candidates should be in good general health, have realistic expectations about the outcomes, and understand that results are gradual and can require multiple treatment sessions. They should also be committed to following post-treatment care instructions, especially for products like Sculptra. Individuals with certain medical conditions, active skin infections, or a history of severe allergies might not be suitable candidates, which is why a thorough consultation with a qualified medical professional is absolutely essential to determine if these treatments are right for you.

What’s the difference between collagen injections and hyaluronic acid fillers?

This is a fundamental question and helps clarify a lot of confusion! While both are injectables used for facial rejuvenation, their primary mechanisms and effects are quite different.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers: Think of HA fillers (like Juvéderm, Restylane, Belotero) as immediate “plumpers.” Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar in our skin that attracts and holds water, providing instant volume and hydration. When injected, HA fillers physically fill lines, wrinkles, or areas of volume loss, offering immediate results. They are excellent for specific corrections, lip augmentation, or under-eye troughs. Their effects are temporary, typically lasting 6-18 months, as the body gradually metabolizes the HA.

Collagen Stimulators (e.g., Sculptra, Radiesse): These are not primarily “fillers” in the immediate sense, but rather “biostimulators.” They work by stimulating your body’s own fibroblasts to produce new collagen over time. While Radiesse does offer some immediate volume due to its gel carrier, the true, long-lasting benefit comes from the collagen growth it induces. Sculptra’s results are entirely dependent on new collagen formation and are therefore gradual. The beauty here is that you’re rebuilding your skin’s foundation, leading to more natural-looking and longer-lasting improvements in skin quality, firmness, and volume. It’s a fundamental difference in how they achieve their results – one fills, the other rebuilds.

How much do collagen injections typically cost?

The cost of collagen-stimulating injections can vary quite a bit, depending on several factors. These include the specific product used (Sculptra, Radiesse, PDO threads), the number of syringes or threads required for your desired outcome, the expertise and location of your injector, and the number of treatment sessions needed.

For instance, a single vial of Sculptra might range from $800 to $1,200, but a full treatment typically involves 2-4 vials over several sessions, bringing the total cost into the multi-thousand dollar range. Radiesse usually costs $700-$1,000 per syringe, and the total would depend on how many syringes are needed. PDO threads vary widely based on the type and quantity of threads. Because these treatments offer long-lasting results, they are often viewed as a worthwhile investment in the long run, potentially requiring fewer maintenance treatments than traditional fillers. Always get a detailed quote during your consultation, including the full treatment plan and any package deals that might be available.

Is there an age limit for getting collagen injections?

There isn’t a strict “age limit” for getting collagen-stimulating injections, but rather an age range where they are most beneficial and safe. Generally, individuals who are starting to show visible signs of collagen loss – typically in their late 20s or early 30s onward – are considered candidates. However, the most common age group seeking these treatments is often between 40 and 60 years old, as this is when the effects of collagen depletion become more pronounced and people are looking for significant rejuvenation.

Younger individuals might benefit from other preventative or mild corrective treatments, while very elderly patients might have more advanced skin laxity that could require surgical intervention for optimal results, though collagen stimulators can still offer improvement. The decision ultimately rests on a thorough evaluation by a qualified practitioner who assesses skin quality, overall health, and realistic expectations, rather than just a number on a birth certificate.

What are the absolute contraindications for collagen stimulator injections?

While collagen stimulators are safe for many, there are certain situations where treatment would not be advised due to potential risks or complications. These are known as absolute contraindications.

Generally, absolute contraindications include active skin infections or inflammation in or near the treatment area, as this could lead to the spread of infection or worsen existing inflammation. Individuals with known allergies to any component of the injectable product (e.g., PLLA, CaHA, lidocaine) should also avoid treatment. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are typically considered contraindications, as the safety of these injectables in these populations has not been established. Furthermore, people with certain autoimmune diseases, uncontrolled systemic diseases, or bleeding disorders may also be unsuitable candidates. It’s also crucial to avoid treatment if you have a history of hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation in the intended treatment area. Always, and I mean always, disclose your full medical history to your qualified practitioner during the consultation to ensure your safety and the best possible outcome.