Do Bellafill fillers cause granulomas/lumps and migrate over time?

Bellafill, like any filler, can sometimes result in granulomas. Depending on whose study you read, the risk of granulomas can be as high as 1 in 100 patients to as low as 1 in 5,000 patients. I have been injecting Bellafill (previously called Artefill) since early 2007 and had been injecting Artecoll as early as 1999 when I practiced in Canada before coming to the States. I have seen only two true granulomas. Both resolved with treatment.As for migration, that is something I have never seen happen. Given how the PMMA microspheres of Bellafill are locked into place by collagen encapsulation, migration should be nearly unheard of.All the best,--David C. Pearson, M.D.Pearson Facial Plastic Surgery®

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve complications associated with Bellafill, a filler with permanent attributes that can cause granulomas, uneven contour, and soft tissue reaction. Our office focuses on granuloma reversal in cases where an incision may leave permanent scars. The reversal is performed with Kenalog IIT combination therapy, fibrous release, and HIDEF fractional RF to help break up the nodularity. Schedule a consultation for surgical removal if the Bellafill is located in the eyelids, lips, and lower face. Midface Bellafill is difficult to surgically remove.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

As with all fillers there is a risk of granulomas/lumps. In order to avoid this I suggest consulting and seeking treatment with an expert injector who is a board certified Dermatologist or facial plastic surgeon. It is always wise to "test" the desired areas with a HA based filler that is reversible prior to injecting the area with Bellafill which is irreversible and last approximately 5 years. Best, Dr. Emer.