
Bellafill
According the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin disorder in the United States, affecting up to 50 million of men and women each year. Acne can have a devastating impact on self-esteem, particularly if its effects are permanent. Acne scars form when inflammation has prevented the skin from healing properly, leading to a loss of collagen. As the skin ages, acne scars can become more pronounced as the body’s collagen reserves are further depleted.
At Petaluma Botox in Marin County, CA, we specialize in non-surgical skin rejuvenation and volumizing procedures. Dr. Delgado and his experienced team of certified nurse injectors recommend Bellafill, an FDA-approved filler, to patients who would like to reduce the appearance of pitted acne scarring and improve the overall texture of the skin. Used primarily to treat acne scars, Bellafill can also be used to smooth out smile lines (nasolabial folds) and wrinkles.
How Bellafill works
Bellafill is specially formulated to support collagen production and tissue regeneration. The smooth collagen-based gel formula contains polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres. When injected, the collagen immediately lifts skin depressions. As the collagen is absorbed by the body over time, the PMMA microspheres provide ongoing structure that helps the skin maintain a smoother surface.
Treatment overview
Bellafill injections are fast and painless. During an office visit, one of our Bellafill specialists will inject the filler beneath the acne scar or nasolabial folds. The dermal filler contains a small amount of lidocaine, a mild numbing agent that reduces any discomfort. Injections typically take about 15 minutes to complete, but the total treatment time will depend on the area being addressed. All Bellafill treatments are performed at the Novato, California office.
Side effects and recovery
Bellafill is typically well-tolerated and carry few serious risks. After Bellafill injections at our Bay Area office, patients can return to their normal routines. Patients may experience some mild redness and swelling at the injection site, but these side effects will quickly subside. Because it contains purified bovine collagen, an allergy test is required prior to injections.
Results
With Bellafill, the results are both instant and long-lasting. Once introduced, the collagen-based gel instantly boosts the the skin and fills in acne scars and deep folds, providing immediate visible results. Over time, the collagen will break down, leaving the matrix of PMMA microspheres in place. This matrix helps maintain results by providing scaffolding for the body’s own collagen production. Bellafill tends to last longer than hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as Juvéderm and Voluma. In a clinical trial, 90% of patients treated for acne scars reported satisfactory results at the one year mark. Some patients treated for nasolabial folds have benefited from Bellafill injections for up to 5 years.