Artefill Injections
Summary: This article provides information about Artefill injections, including appropriate expectations, the procedure, potential risks, recovery and cost of Artefill.
Artefill, a popular injectable filler, is comprised of tiny beads of polymethylmethacrylate, or PMMA. These are suspended in a gel of bovine collagen. A slightly altered version of this formula was available for more than a decade under the name Artecoll. Once injected into the skin, the solution fills in fine lines and facial wrinkles. The microspheres of PMMA also stimulate the body’s own production of collagen, a key structural element within the skin. Artefill is a popular method for filling in the deep lines running from the corners of the mouth to the nose. It is also used for nonsurgical nose jobs, lip augmentation, and filling in other facial lines or wrinkles.
Are you a good candidate?
Good candidates for Artefill are adult men or women who do not have any active acne, rashes, or infections near the injection site. Before the injection, the doctor will perform an allergy test; only those who are not allergic to bovine collagen can undergo Artefill injections. However, most other adults in good overall health can get dermal filler injections.
Many doctors recommend that patients try temporary dermal fillers first, because the results of Artefill last much longer than those of other dermal fillers. Ideal candidates have already tried temporary injectable fillers and are sure that they want a permanent change. It is best for filling deeper lines, rather than areas with thinner skin, such as ‘crow’s feet’ lines around the eyes.
Procedure
Several weeks before using Artefill injections, your doctor may require an allergy test to ensure that you are not allergic to the bovine collagen found in the injection. Injecting Artefill requires about an hour in the doctor’s office. The injection itself takes ten to fifteen minutes, depending on the number of injection sites. First, a numbing cream is applied to minimize any discomfort felt during the injections. Then, through a very thin needle, the Artefill solution is injected. The injection pattern and amount of Artefill injected into each location depend on the goals of the procedure. Most patients require only one treatment session to achieve the desired results.
Complications, Side Effects & Risks
Although non-surgical treatments such as Artefill injections are considered low risk, there are some possible complications that patients should know about before making the decision to undergo treatment. These include mild bruising, redness, or swelling around the injection site. These side effects usually subside within one to two weeks. Less common risks include itching or changes in skin sensitivity. In addition, there is the risk of allergic reaction to the bovine collagen, particularly if an allergy test is not conducted prior to the injection.
Recovery Time
After undergoing Artefill injections, patients can return to their normal daily routine immediately, with no downtime. Injectable dermal fillers such as Artefill are often known as ‘lunchtime facelifts’ because of the limited time required. For the first few days, patients should avoid rubbing or touching the treated area, which can cause the ArteFill to migrate out of place. The effects of the injection are seen immediately. Although in general the effects of dermal fillers are considered temporary, one advantage of Artefill over similar products is that it is the only dermal filler to be considered permanent.
Artefill Cost
Artefill injections cost around $1,000 per syringe. More than one syringe may be needed depending on the goals of the procedure. While this cost is higher than that of many other dermal fillers, the results last longer, reducing the need for repeat visits and leading to lower costs over time. In addition to the details of your procedure, the cost of Artefill injections is also dependent on the doctor chosen and the geographic area, with more experienced doctors and bigger metropolitan areas often leading to slightly higher fees. As a cosmetic procedure, the cost is not usually covered by health insurance. However, many doctors offer payment plans or financing to make the costs of Artefill affordable.