Bellafill

Bellafill is a long-lasting dermal filler that stimulates collagen growth to help maintain a youthful appearance for up to 5 years. It is FDA-approved for the correction of nasolabial folds (smile lines) and moderate to severe, atrophic, distensible facial acne scars on the cheek in patients over the age of 21 years.

At Lockhart Matter Dermatology, our team of board-certified dermatologists and expert aesthetic providers offer Bellafill and many additional dermal filler treatment options in the Prosper, Frisco, Plano, and the entire north Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas. Schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists or expert injectors, and find out if Bellafill is right for you!

How it Works

Bellafill contains tiny polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres suspended within a base of smooth collagen gel. When injected, the collagen gel immediately reduces the look of smile lines and acne scars. Over time, your body uses the microspheres in Bellafill to create a “scaffold” onto which your own natural collagen can develop, adding volume to wrinkles and scars, reducing their appearance, and providing natural-looking results that feel soft and smooth for up to 5 years. Bellafill is unique among dermal fillers because it is composed of two active ingredients: collagen and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres. The collagen gel in Bellafill provides immediate results by reducing the appearance of wrinkles and lines, while the PMMA microspheres create a scaffold for your body’s natural collagen to develop over time, providing long-lasting results.

Procedure

During your first visit, one of our board-certified dermatologists or aesthetic providers will inject a test amount of Bellafill to ensure that you are not allergic to it. After that, the treatment involves injecting Bellafill into the targeted areas, which takes just a few minutes. Most patients experience minimal pain during the procedure and are usually comfortable with a topical numbing agent being applied 15 minutes prior to the injections.

Step-by-Step

Here is a detailed breakdown of the steps involved in a Bellafill injection procedure:

Consultation: Before the procedure, you will consult with one of our board-certified dermatologists or aesthetic providers. They will discuss your goals, medical history, and any potential risks or complications.

Preparation: The treatment area is cleaned and disinfected to minimize the risk of infection. Topical anesthetics or ice may be applied to the area to reduce discomfort during the procedure. In the case of topical anesthetics, they are usually applied 10-15 minutes before the injections are performed.

Syringe selection: A fine needle or cannula is chosen for the injection. The needle design can impact the distribution of the filler within the tissue, so selecting the appropriate needle is crucial for achieving the desired results.

Injection technique: The provider will carefully inject the Bellafill filler into the targeted areas using a specific technique. This may involve inserting the needle at a 90-degree angle and injecting the filler slowly and evenly to ensure proper distribution within the tissue.

Post-injection care: After the injection, the provider may gently massage the treated area to help distribute the filler evenly and achieve a natural-looking result. They will also provide you with post-treatment care instructions, such as avoiding strenuous activities, heat exposure, and certain medications or supplements that can increase the risk of bruising or bleeding.

Follow-up: Depending on your skin type, the severity of the wrinkles or acne scars being treated, and the desired outcome, multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results. We recommend scheduling follow-up appointments with their dermatologist or aesthetic professional to assess the results and determine if additional treatments are necessary.

It is essential to consult with a qualified dermatologist or aesthetic professional to ensure the best results and minimize the risk of complications during Bellafill injections.

Targeted Areas

Bellafill is ideal for a longer-term correction of the following areas:

• Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
• Marionette lines
• Tear-troughs
• Temples
• Cheekbone area
• Acne scars

Cost

The average cost of Bellafill ranges from $900 to $4,000 per treatment, with each syringe costing around $900. The actual cost depends on factors such as procedure type, dosage, and number of treatments. The total cost of treatment may depend on the number of syringes needed to achieve the desired results. It is important to consult with a qualified professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan and associated costs for your individual needs and goals.

Risks and Side Effects

Some potential side effects of Bellafill include temporary swelling, redness, pain, bruising, lumps/bumps, itching, and discoloration at the treatment site. These side effects are usually transient and typically resolve within 1-7 days. Lumps/bumps/papules may occur more than one month after injection and may persist. Patients with a history of severe allergies, known bovine collagen allergies, lidocaine allergies, bleeding disorders, or those prone to thick scar formation and/or excessive scarring should not receive Bellafill.

What to Expect

The collagen gel in Bellafill provides immediate volume and lift for results that you can enjoy as soon as you leave the office. Over time, the collagen is reabsorbed while the PMMA microspheres are left behind, creating a supportive base that allows more of your own collagen to develop, resulting in smoother-looking skin in the long term. The full effects of the injections can be expected months after the appointment.

Before and After Pictures

Individual results may vary, and it is essential to schedule a consultation with us to determine if Bellafill is the right treatment option for you.

Bellafill vs. Juvederm

Bellafill and Juvederm are both dermal fillers used for facial rejuvenation treatments. The primary difference between the two is their longevity and ingredients. Bellafill is a collagen-based filler with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres, which can last up to five years. Juvederm, on the other hand, is a hyaluronic acid-based filler that typically lasts for about six to 12 months.

While Bellafill is more long-lasting, Juvederm is often considered a safer product because practitioners can use hyaluronidase injections to correct misplaced filler, inadvertent intravascular injection(s), or granuloma issues. Both fillers are effective in reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles and folds, but Bellafill is also FDA-approved for the correction of acne scarring, while Juvederm is not.

FAQ

How do I prepare for Bellafill injections?

Most clients do not need special preparation before Bellafill injections. However, it is essential to discuss your overall health and any medications you may be taking with your provider. Arrive at your appointment with a freshly washed face, if possible.

Will I have any downtime after Bellafill injections?

After Bellafill injections, the downtime is generally minimal. Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure. However, there may be some temporary side effects, such as swelling, redness, pain, bruising, and itching at the injection site, which typically resolve within a few days. Following the post-treatment care instructions provided by your dermatologist or aesthetic professional is important to ensure a smooth recovery.

Is Bellafill safe?

Bellafill is considered safe when administered by a board-certified dermatologist or appropriately trained medical provider. It is FDA-approved for permanent implantation into the skin for the correction of nasolabial folds (smile lines) and moderate to severe facial acne scars on the cheeks in patients over the age of 21 years. As with any injectable treatment, there may be some side effects, which can include swelling, bruising, redness, itching, and sensitivity at the injection site. However, these side effects are generally mild and temporary. Bellafill has been proven safe through five years in the largest and longest prospective dermal filler study ever completed. It is essential to consult with a qualified and experienced professional to ensure the safe and effective use of Bellafill for your specific needs.

Can Bellafill be dissolved?

Bellafill is a long-lasting dermal filler that cannot be dissolved once it has been injected. Unlike hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers (e.g. Juvederm), which can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase, Bellafill is composed of collagen and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres, making it a more permanent solution. If there is a need to reverse or adjust the effects of Bellafill, the only option is a procedure that physically removes the material from the face. The procedure to do this can be complex and may carry risks, which is why it’s critical to consult with an experienced board-certified dermatologist before undergoing any treatment involving Bellafill.

What body areas can Bellafill be used on?

Bellafill can be used on various areas of the face, including:

• Around the mouth for vertical lipstick lines and nasolabial folds (smile lines).
• Around the nose
• Cheeks, to treat mid-face volume loss and improve the appearance of acne scars.
• Eye hollows.
• Lips and chin

Am I good candidate for Bellafill?

Good candidates for Bellafill are individuals over 21 years old and concerned about moderate to severe facial volume loss or acne scars. Bellafill is FDA-approved for the correction of nasolabial folds (smile lines) and moderate to severe atrophic facial acne scars on the cheeks in patients over the age of 21 years. It is suitable for both men and women with a variety of skin types.

However, Bellafill may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with a history of severe allergies, known allergies to bovine collagen or lidocaine, bleeding disorders, or those prone to irregular scarring should inform their doctor before undergoing treatment. An allergy skin test is required prior to the first use of Bellafill to ensure patient safety.