What is Bellafill?
What is Bellafill?
Bellafill is an injectable filler for the correction of wrinkles known as smile lines. It contains 20% tiny, round, non-resorbable, smooth particles (PMMA microspheres); and 80% purified bovine collagen gel with 0.3% lidocaine, an anesthetic.
How does Bellafill work?
Bellafill is a dual-acting injectable wrinkle filler. First, Bellafill visibly corrects the wrinkle. Then the microspheres provide the support your skin needs for lasting correction.
How is Bellafill different from other fillers?
All other fillers are eventually absorbed by the body. Bellafill is different. The unique microspheres in Bellafill are not resorbed by the body. These microspheres provide the support your skin needs for wrinkle correction.
Is Bellafill safe?
The FDA has approved Bellafill for the safe and effective correction of smile lines.
What is in Bellafill?
Bellafill is made up of microsphere-enhanced collagen with lidocaine for your comfort.
What are microspheres?
The biocompatible microspheres in Bellafill are made up of Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), which has been used in medical applications for more than 60 years. The microspheres create a microscopic ‘matrix’ to support your body’s own natural collagen production*, and may ultimately help strengthen the layers of the skin.
How long does a Bellafill treatment take?
A typical Bellafill treatment only takes about 30-45 minutes.
Can anyone have Bellafill treatments?
No. Some people are not good candidates for Bellafill. Bellafill is contraindicated in those who:
- have a positive reaction to the Bellafill skin test (optional)
- have a history of severe allergies and hypersensitivity (anaphylaxis)
- are allergic to the anesthetic (lidocaine) in Bellafill
- have a history of allergies to any bovine collagen products
- are prone to thick scarring (hypertrophic scars) formation and/or excessive scarring (keloid scars)
- are undergoing or planning to undergo desensitization injections to meat products
- Not for use in lip augmentation
Are there any other treatment concerns with Bellafill?
Yes.
- If you have any skin outbreaks (e.g., acne, cysts, rashes, hives, infection) at the injection site, you should postpone treatment until they clear.
- If you are taking aspirin (NSAIDs) or anti-inflammatory drugs or have any medical condition that affects your blood, you may experience increased bruising or bleeding at the injection sites.
In addition, you should inform your Licensed Provider if:
- You have had any treatments for smile lines in the last 6 months
- You are receiving Ultraviolet (UV) light therapy
- You are currently on immunosuppressive therapy
It’s important that you share your medical information with your Licensed Provider. Together, you can make an informed decision as to whether Bellafill is right for you.
Are there any further precautions with Bellafill?
Yes, you should know:
- Bellafill contains microspheres that help provide the support for wrinkle correction. The microspheres can only be physically removed, and are non-resorbable and long-lasting.
- The safety of Bellafill in pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals under 18, has not been established.
- There is always a risk of infection with any injection. Discuss the symptoms of infection with your Licensed Provider so you will be able to recognize them.
- Check to see if your Licensed Provider is properly trained to provide Bellafill.
How large are the microspheres in Bellafill?
PMMA microspheres are 30-50μm in diameter (1 micron is 1 millionth of a meter).
Are there any possible side effects with Bellafill?
As with any injectable filler, you may experience temporary pain, swelling and reddening at the treatment site. These side effects are usually gone within a few days. Occasionally, there is transient bruising that typically disappears within 7 days. Less common side effects include rash and itching more than 48 hours after treatment, persistent swelling or redness, and increased sensitivity at injection sites. Two other rare potential side effects of all fillers may be lumps and granulomas, both of which may be treated by your Licensed Provider. Be sure to call your Licensed Provider immediately if you notice any unusual skin reactions around the treatment area.
When will I see results with Bellafill and how long will the results last?
You may see some results almost immediately. In the U.S. clinical study, nasolabial fold correction was maintained throughout the course of the 12 month study.
Is one treatment enough to get the look I want?
Most people get the results they want with one to three treatments, depending on the depth of their wrinkles and folds. When you have your follow-up appointment, you and your Licensed Provider can decide if there is a need to further enhance your results. With Bellafill Progressive Enhancement™ (gradual wrinkle correction), your Licensed Provider can tailor your treatment program to meet your individual needs. This personalized approach helps to ensure that you get the look you desire.
How is Bellafill injected?
Bellafill is injected underneath the wrinkle, just above the skin’s fat layer. Bellafill provides the soft, supportive foundation that your skin needs for wrinkle correction.
Are the injections Comfortable?
Bellafill is formulated with a lidocaine for patient comfort. For additional comfort, the Licensed Provider may apply a topical anesthetic.
How will my face feel following treatment?
With proper placement, Bellafill cannot be felt after treatment. You may see the results immediately and be able to return to your normal daily activities.
Can Bellafill be used in my lips?
No.