Artefill Special
Tuesday, Nov 10th, 2009 - Purchase one syringe, get the second syringe 50% off
The Lasting Solution for Wrinkle Correction
Artefill is the first and only non-resorbable microsphere-enhanced collagen filler for the correction of nasolabial folds (the lines from your nose to the corners of your mouth).
If you've used temporary dermal fillers in the past, then you know they are eventually absorbed by your body and require repeat injections to maintain the results you've come to love.
Artefill is different. The unique microspheres contained within Artefill are not absorbed by the body, providing the support structure your skin needs for smooth, natural results. If you are looking for a long-lasting filler that you can have confidence in, thenArtefill may be right for you.
- Minimal to no downtime
- A simple, in-office procedure
- Excellent safety profile
- Results improve over the course of several months and stand the test of time
- Usually requires only one or two treatments
What is Artefill?
Artefill is the long lasting solution for wrinkle correction. Artefill consists of a combination
of PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate) microsphere enhanced collagen and lidocaine for comfort.
PMMA is one of the most commonly used artificial implant materials in medicine (for cataract
lens, bone cement, etc.). It was developed into a permanent injection for wrinkles in Germany in
the 1990’s. This original product (Artecoll) has been approved and used for wrinkle injections in many countries in Europe and around the world since 1994.
How does Artefill work?
The collagen gel acts as a carrier for the microspheres in Artefill. Gradually, your body absorbs the collagen while the microspheres remain to provide a long lasting support structure below the wrinkle to sustain wrinkle correction.
What is the procedure like?
This safe, in-office procedure takes a just a few 15-20 minutes to administer. You will receive a topical anesthetic for 40 minutes prior to lessen the pain from the procedure (bring something to read!) With proper placement you won’t feel a thing and can return to your normal daily activities. The results are immediate and will improve over time.
Who performs the injections?
As with all injections in the office, Dr. Brown is the only one who will be performing the procedure. She is a true expert in the field of aesthetic dermatology and spent years of specialized training to become board certified in dermatology. For procedures such as this, experience and expertise are of utmost importance.
Is Artefill safe?
Yes. Artefill has proven to be a safe and effective dermal filler for the correction of wrinkles and was approved by the U.S. FDA in October 2006. Since the launch of Artefill in 2007, over 15,000 patients have been safely treated with Artefill and there have been no product recalls and no reported medical device events.
How does Artefill differ from temporary fillers?
Temporary dermal fillers are made of different kinds of natural or synthetic materials that are completely absorbed by the body over time and as a result, wrinkle correction usually lasts for only 3-9 months. The microsphere enhanced collagen in Artefill remains intact at the treatment site and provides structural support to keep your wrinkle from returning.
Can anyone have Artefill treatments?
No. Artefill cannot be used in the following individuals:
- have a positive reaction to the Artefill skin test
- have a history of severe allergies and hypersensitivity (anaphylaxis)
- are allergic to the anesthetic (lidocaine) in Artefill
- have a history of allergies to any collagen products
- are prone to thick scarring (hypertrophic) formation and/or excessive scarring (keloid)
- are pregnant or breastfeeding
Are there any other treatment concerns with Artefill?
Yes. If you have any skin outbreaks (e.g. cysts, pimples, rashes, hives, infection) near the injection site, you should postpone treatment until they clear. If you are taking aspirin (NSAIDs) or anti-inflammatory drugs or have any medical condition that affects your blood, you may experience increased bruising or bleeding at the injection sites. In addition, you should inform Dr. Brown if:
- you have had any treatments for smile lines in the last 6 months
- you are receiving UV light therapy
- you are currently on immunosuppressive therapy (medication commonly prescribed for those who have undergone an organ transplant, or are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, or cancer)
Are there any possible side effects with Artefill?
As with any injectable wrinkle filler, you can expect mild swelling and reddening at the treatment site. These side effects are usually gone within 24 hours. Occasionally, there is mild bruising that typically disappears in three to seven days. Less common side effects include rash and itching more than 48 hours after treatment, persistent swelling or redness, and increased sensitivity at some or all injection sites. Two other rare potential side effects of all dermal fillers may be lumps and granulomas, both of which can be treated by your physician.
Is one treatment enough to get the look I want?
Most people get the results they want with one or two treatments, depending on the depth of their wrinkles and folds. When you have your follow-up appointment, you can decide if you would like to further enhance your results.
How will I look as my skin ages after treatment with Artefill?
Studies have shown that patients injected with microsphere-enhanced collagen, still reflect a natural appearance in both their overall facial appearance as well as in the area treated 5 years from their initial treatment. These patients were surveyed and had a 90% satisfaction rating related to their wrinkle correction and experience with Artefill.
Why is a skin test required before treatment with Artefill?
The skin test is a safety precaution to ensure that you are not allergic to the collagen or anesthetic in Artefill.
What is the long term safety of microsphere-enhanced collagen treatments?
A follow-up study of patients from the controlled clinical study were followed over a 5-year period after treatment. Independent expert observers rated photographs of patient wrinkles at five years compared to before treatment and six months after treatment. The physician investigators of this follow-up study concluded that the treatment safely maintains significant correction of smile lines for at least five (5) years post-treatment.
I have heard some patients develop persistent lumps in their skin after treatment with Artefill, is this true?
Persistent lumps are a rare potential side effect of all dermal fillers, including Artefill, and can be treated effectively.
If I have had a negative collagen skin test previously, do I need to have
another skin test with Artefill?
Yes, an Artefill skin test is required prior to treatment to make sure that you are not allergic to the collagen in Artefill.
For more information visit www.artefill.com.
