Description
Artecoll ®, a long-lasting injectable implant, is used to treat static facial lines, enlarge lips, fill in facial imperfections, and diminish nasolabial folds through a series of tiny injections under the skin's surface. It fills in the depression, raising the skin to its normal height. Composed of 75 percent collagen and 25 percent polymethylmethacrylate microspheres (PMMA), Artecoll ® can also correct acne scars and irregularities of the nose. (After being used in Europe for many years, Artecoll ®, which is also referred to as ArteFill ® in the United States, was recently approved by the FDA in December 2006 to treat nasolabial folds. A five-year follow up study of patients using Artecoll ® is a mandatory condition).
Length
About 20 minutes; depends on the amount of injections required. (Second and third procedures may be necessary if the first set of injections do not provide optimal results.)
Side Effects
Minor swelling,redness,
bruising, tenderness or itching lasting 1 to 2 days. Allergic reactions to Artecoll ® a rare condition. Thin skin may temporarily lighten. Injected area may initially feel harder, but will soften again after the growth of new connective tissue.
Recovery
Artecoll ® will permanently remain in the body.
Risks
Thin skin may temporarily lighten. Injected area may initially feel harder, but will soften again after the growth of new connective tissue.
Results
The effects have proven to last 10 years and longer. However, final results are different with each patient’s skin in regard to aging and unique facial mimicry (frowning, squinting, smiling, etc.)
Technology
Artecoll ® is distributed through a series of tiny injections directly under the skin’s surface, at the subdermal level. The amount administered depends on the depth and size of the skin defect or wrinkle. After a doctor makes the appropriate injections at the desired site, the microspheres are spread and molded with the fingertip to assure an even, subdermal distribution. All microspheres will be totally and evenly encapsulated by a fine, fibrous capsule with minimal inflammatory reaction. It can take up to 3 months to see final results.
Patient Status
Outpatient -
Anesthesia
Local