The FDA has approved Artefill, a permanent cosmetic filler.  It works well on smile lines, and it has minimal side effects.  Artefill is a more pure version of Artecoll, which has been in use in Canada for years.  Studies on Artefill show improvement up to five years after treatment, and results are generally considered permanent.  Injected areas will continue to lose volume with age, so periodic “touch ups” will be necessary.

Results are seen immediately, although two treatments may be required.  Artefill may also be used on lines between the mouth and chin, and may minimize the appearance of scars.  Artefill contains spheres of PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate) in a collagen gel, with an added anesthetic to reduce pain during injection.  The collagen is a carrier for the PMMA, and will dissolve over a few months.  The PMMA spheres remain in the skin, providing a structure for the skin to deposit its natural collagen around.

Juvederm and Restylane are still the most popular fillers, and Radiesse is the top choice for plumping the cheeks.  Artefill is most effective on smile lines, when a permanent result is wanted.  It may also work to smooth crooked contours on the nose.  It can be used in conjunction with Restylane, Botox, and Juvederm, or with laser treatments like Fraxel.  These treatments have virtually no downtime!

Each treatment will last from 10-20 minutes, and is usually pain-free.  Depending on the injected area, a patient may need more than one syringe.  A “touch up” may be needed up to three months later, requiring a smaller amount of Artefill.  Before treatment, you’ll need to take a skin test to see if you have an allergy to collagen.  To reduce bruising, avoid large amounts of vitamin E, or taking aspirin.  Taking arnica, a homeopathic remedy, will reduce bruising and swelling.  Some people may have tenderness, pain or swelling.  This will usually go away within a day or so.  Don’t massage the injection site as it may move the gel.

Artefill’s results are permanent, so keep that in consideration.  If you are unsure, try a temporary filler like Juvederm or Restylane first.  And always, always make sure that your chosen doctor is experienced in Artefill use.  Your dermatologist may be able to refer you to an expert.  Artefill is a safe, relatively easy way to achieve permanent plumping results for facial skin.  Talk to your physician today!