Bellafill is the only injectable filler on the US market proven to last up to 5 years. Bellafill is primarily used to treat acne scars and facial wrinkles, such as smile lines. Compared to traditional fillers, Bellafill is a unique product for two reasons: One, the body does not absorb its microspheres. Two, those microspheres help your body produce more collagen naturally. The result is a natural-looking correction proven to last at least five years.
Comprised of 80 percent collagen and 20 percent PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate) microspheres, Bellafill injections can correct facial wrinkles caused by age and repetitive facial movements, along with some types of acne scars. The formula is FDA approved and proven safe for use in adults.
Procedure Walk-Through
- Preparation: Thirty days prior to treatment, Dr. Vallecillos administers an allergy skin test to detect sensitivity to bovine collagen. Two weeks prior, cease taking all blood thinning medications and supplements to reduce the risk of bruising or bleeding.
- Anesthesia: Anesthesia is not necessary with this injectable.
- Preoperative Consult: Discuss with Dr. Vallecillos your desired results for this procedure to ensure it is the correct choice for you. In addition, share information concerning your medical history and known allergies, and inform the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Bellafill Injections
Dr. Vallecillos injects Bellafill with a small needle, directly beneath the treatment area but above the underlying fat layer. The procedure takes only 15 to 30 minutes, though two treatment sessions six weeks apart may be necessary, depending on your required level of treatment.
Over the next few weeks, your body absorbs the bovine collagen while the microspheres, which remain permanently in your skin, encourage collagen production to replace it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a candidate for Bellafill injections?
Patients over 21, who are familiar with soft tissue fillers, are ideal Bellafill candidates, especially since the results are often permanent. If you have nasolabial folds, commonly called smile lines, or acne scars on the cheeks, you are also a good candidate for the procedure.
Bellafill is not safe for patients under 21 or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Patients allergic to lidocaine or bovine collagen and those with bleeding disorders or prone to excessive scarring should not receive Bellafill injections.
What is the recovery time for Bellafill injections?
This simple treatment allows immediate resumption of normal daily activities.
Are there risks or side effects associated with Bellafill injections?
Risks are minimal in patients without a history of severe allergies. Side effects are temporary and include swelling, redness, bruising, mild pain, discoloration, and itching at the treatment site. One month after injection, lumps, granulomas, or papules may form. Call Dr. Vallecillos immediately if you experience unusual skin reactions.
How long do the results last?
Numerous studies have shown that results of this procedure last five years or longer, as the microspheres never absorb into the body. Follow Dr. Vallecillos’ advice exactly to obtain the best results.