ArteFill
is a gel filler consisting of millions of
synthetic microspheres (polymethylmethacrylate
or PMMA) suspended in purified bovine (cow)
collagen. ArteFill also contains the local
anesthetic lidocaine to reduce discomfort
during injection.
How ArteFill Works
ArteFill is injected directly beneath the wrinkle to add a permanent support structure and smoothen the area. The synthetic PMMA microspheres in ArteFill are "non-resorbable," which means they are not absorbed into the body or metabolized, allowing ArteFill to last significantly longer than other Injectable fillers. The microspheres stimulate the body to generate its own natural collagen to encapsulate each individual microsphere, resulting in 80% of the patient's collagen and 20% microspheres (by volume) to permanently fill in the wrinkle.
As the injected bovine collagen is slowly absorbed during a few weeks, the newly generated collagen replaces it. This slow breakdown and natural replenishment process provides ArteFill with its unique and enduring results.
Recently Artes Medical submitted five-year
safety and efficacy data from its U.S.
clinical trial patients to the FDA in order
to expand the product's labeling. The data
show a statistically significant improvement
of wrinkle correction between six months and
five years after the initial injection,
which is attributed to the ongoing collagen
remodeling process around the PMMA
microspheres.
Side Effects with ArteFill
Side
effects from ArteFill are rare but may
include redness, swelling, lumpiness, pain,
or sensitivity at the injection site. Some
patients may feel a slight firmness after
injection, which usually resolves over time.
Cost of ArteFill
ArteFill treatment typically costs $1,500 per cc. Syringes contain either 0.4cc or 0.8cc, depending on the area treated. You may want to ask Dr. Hart about payment plan options.
