Semi-Permanent Filler

What is Artefill/Bellafill?

Artefill now called “BELLAFILL” is the longest lasting FDA approved dermal filler to correct smile lines.

Is Artefill a new product?

Artefill was first introduced under the name of ArteColl in Europe 10 years ago. In October of 2006, the FDA in the United States approved the use of Artefill for treatment of nasolabial folds.

What is Artefill made of?

It is made of a combination of collagen and microspheres called PMMA. The collagen is a component that last a few weeks, while the PMMAs are permanent particles. The product also includes lidocaine for your comfort.

What is PMMA?

PMMAs ( Polymethyl Methacrylate) are tiny microscopic beads that are a non-absorbable product. They are dispensed in collagen.

Why is Artefill longest lasting dermal fillers?

When Artefill is injected into skin, your body absorbs the collagen within 4 to 8 weeks. The PMMA (the permanent, non-absorbable component) however, stays where it was placed to correct and add skin volume. PMMAs are tiny microsphere beads, which do not break down in the body. Because they do not break down or become absorbed in the body, this product is an ideal for permanent correction of smile lines (nasolabial folds).

How long is “longest lasting” dermal filler?

Artefill has been tracked as dermal filler for cosmetic use in Europe for 10 years. It has successfully completed a 5-years safety and efficacy by ARTES MEDICAL here in the US, showing a positive safety profile with continued wrinkle correction.

How safe is to have permanent “beads” in the skin?

PMMA, the permanent component of Artefill, has been one of the most widely used material for implantable medical devices since 1945. Ten- year studies in Europe have produced a positive safety profile. In the US, studies have been completed with the same findings over 5 years. Clinical tests have shown that Artefill is as safe as temporary fillers.

What is different between Botox and Artefill?

Botox, Dysport and Xeomin are all FDA approved botulinum toxins that relax underlying muscles and makes skin wrinkles fade over time, (especially if you continue with botox injections).Artefill is dermal fillers compared to Restylane, perlane, Juvederm, Radiesse and Sculptra. Like these other fillers, Artefill adds volume under skin folds and wrinkles to plump and lift the skin. Other dermal fillers are all for different purposes.

I nerve have had fillers, Is Artefill a good choice for me?

To be honest, it may not be! Dr. Shafa recommends you try temporarily fillers first. If you are satisfied with the outcome, you may want to consider the longest lasting product, Artefill to be injected only by an experienced Physician.

Do I see the result of injection immediately?

Yes. The collagen component of Artefill which gives the immediate volume correction. However, it will be absorbed over the following 6 to 8 weeks, while at the same time the PMMA component of Artefill will be stimulating new collagen formation in the skin. Over the following few months the combination of PMMA and the surrounding new collagen creates volume in the skin.

Who can inject Artefill?

Since Artefill is a longer lasting ( more permanent) filler, you want to make sure to choose a qualified and experienced physician to inject this type of product.

Is the injection going to hurt?

Artefill is injected like other fillers. We use the same methods to perform pain free procedures. The lidocaine in Artefill also minimizes discomfort.

How many treatments are needed?

That all depends of how much correction is needed. Generally, Dr. Shafa corrects skin deficit in multiple sessions, usually a month apart. This gives the doctor time to reevaluate the results of each injection and determine the need for more correction. During your initial consultation however, Dr. Shafa will give you an idea how many syringes will eventually be needed.

What is the risk with Artefill injection?

As in other filler injections, there is some bruising and/or swelling that may last several days. The chance of allergic reaction to the product is extremely low.

Is Artefill going to look natural?

Obtaining a natural look with injections depends how are the fillers injected. This is why artistry and experience of the physician you choose is so very important! Dr. Shafa recommends injecting Artefill in multiple sessions to avoid over correction so you end up with natural look you desire.

Is Artefill expensive?

Artefill is more economic filler than others because it is more permanent than other products. Initially your cost may be higher, but fewer injections and less maintenance will be needed over time.

Other Treatments

Dermal Filler Overview | Restylane Family | Juvederm Family Fillers | Radiesse, an Unique Dermal Filler | An Unique Collagen Stimulating Product