Bellafill® (formerly Artefill®)
Looking for wrinkle correction that lasts? Most fillers are gradually absorbed by the body and need regular repeat treatments. Bellafill is different: its microspheres stay in place and work with your skin to build collagen, giving natural, long-lasting support.
How it's different
Temporary fillers are made of materials that your body slowly breaks down and absorbs. That means correction fades, and you'll need repeat injections every several months to keep your results.
Bellafill combines a collagen gel, which gives immediate volume, with tiny smooth PMMA microspheres. As the gel is absorbed, the microspheres stay behind and act as a framework, and your body builds its own collagen around them. That's what gives Bellafill its lasting, natural-looking results.
Why patients choose it
- Long-lasting: results that stand the test of time
- Economical: fewer injections over the years than temporary fillers
- Feels natural, because it works with your own collagen
- Convenient: a simple in-office procedure, back to your day right away
- Improves over time as collagen builds over several months
What it treats
- Smile lines (nasolabial folds)
- Moderate to severe pitted acne scars on the cheeks
These are Bellafill's FDA-approved uses. We'll discuss whether it's the right filler for your goals, or whether a hyaluronic acid filler would suit you better.
What to expect
- Skin test first. Because the gel contains bovine (cow) collagen, a small allergy skin test is done about 4 weeks before treatment.
- Treatment. Bellafill contains lidocaine for comfort and is injected in a quick in-office visit.
- Right after. Correction is visible immediately. Mild swelling, redness or bruising usually settles within a few days.
- The following months. Results continue to improve as new collagen forms. A touch-up may be recommended to fine-tune results.
Before your treatment
- Complete your skin test and the 4-week observation period
- Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory medicines, fish oil and vitamin E for about a week, unless your doctor has told you to take them
- Tell us about any allergies (especially to beef, collagen or lidocaine), bleeding disorders or previous fillers
Aftercare
- Avoid strenuous exercise, sun and heat for 24 hours
- Follow any massage instructions we give you
- Cold compresses help with swelling
- Call us about any lumps, unusual redness or pain, even months later
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between Artefill and Bellafill?
They're the same product. Artefill was renamed Bellafill in 2014.
How long does it last?
Bellafill is designed to be long-lasting. Clinical studies have followed patients for up to five years, making it the longest-studied filler for smile-line correction.
Is it safe?
Bellafill has an excellent safety profile when used by an experienced provider. Common side effects are mild and temporary: swelling, redness, bruising, itching or tenderness. Because the microspheres stay in place, small lumps or bumps, including rare inflammatory nodules (granulomas) that can appear months later, are possible and may need treatment. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, Bellafill can't be dissolved, so careful placement matters.
Who shouldn't have Bellafill?
It isn't suitable for people with a positive skin test, allergies to bovine collagen or lidocaine, a history of severe allergies, or a tendency to form excessive scars. It isn't used in the lips. We'll review your full history at your consultation.
Is it right for me, or should I choose a temporary filler?
Bellafill is a great option if you've been happy with temporary fillers and want longer-lasting results. If you're trying filler for the first time, we often suggest starting with a reversible hyaluronic acid filler like Juvéderm, Restylane or Belotero.
This page is for general information and isn't medical advice. Suitability and results vary by person and are determined at your consultation. Bellafill® and Artefill® are registered trademarks of their owner.
A long-lasting solution for wrinkle correction
Ask us about Bellafill at your free consultation.