I want something long lasting that increases collagen - am I a good candidate for Bellafill? (Photos)

Question

Hello, I started experiencing noticeable facial volume loss leading to under eye hollows and nasolabial folds in my early 30s. I am now 40 and am starting to see a little sagging at my jawline as well. (See pics.) I am researching fillers and am interested in Bellafill. I want something long lasting that increases collagen. However, I am prone to keloid scarring! Are fillers/Bellafill my best option? Or should I consider something else?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Using permanent fillers is like playing with fire. I have been warning my regular followers for years that permanent fillers can translate into persistent to permanent problems that can be exceedingly difficult to treat if there are adverse reactions or unwanted cosmetic outcomes. 
Unlike HA fillers that can be relatively easily dissolved should the need arise, permanent fillers of all kinds do not have such a dissolving potential. Disfiguring nodules and granulomas or other post-treatment issues that may arise following the use of permanent fillers can be devastating. Even surgery to remove them can leave people scarred and disfigured. It's like playing with fire. 
Robust HA fillers have been successfully for nonsurgical cheek augmentation that not only contours a more desirable ogee curve and feminine face, but can secondarily improve under-eye hollows and tear troughs and give rise to results that may last up to 1.5 years and can be dissolved quite readily with hyaluronidase should the need ever arise. 
You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist filler expert. And one further piece of advice. Don't go into any consultation asking for a particular treatment that you may have picked up from Drs. Google, Instagram or TikTok because, to your later disappointment, frustration, and financial loss, you are very likely to get exactly what you ask for. 
Hope this helps and best of luck.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. Based on your concerns, I recommend treatments with Sculptra. Sculptra is a type of injectable cosmetic filler that contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible synthetic substance. It is used to restore facial volume lost due to aging or weight loss by stimulating collagen production. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers that provide immediate results, Sculptra works gradually over several months to produce natural-looking results that can last up to two years. It's commonly used to treat deep facial wrinkles, folds, and hollow areas, offering a subtle and long-lasting improvement in facial contour and appearance. I hope this helps and best of luck!

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

When considering Bellafill or any other dermal fillers, it's important to take into account both the benefits and potential risks, especially given your history of keloid scarring. Here's a detailed analysis to help you make an informed decision:

Bellafill Overview:
- Composition: Bellafill is a long-lasting dermal filler made of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres suspended in a collagen gel.
- Mechanism: The collagen provides immediate volume and lift, while the PMMA microspheres stimulate your body's own collagen production over time, leading to long-lasting results.
- Longevity: Bellafill is FDA-approved for the correction of nasolabial folds and acne scars, with results lasting up to 5 years.

Benefits of Bellafill:
1. Long-lasting Results: Unlike many other fillers that last 6-18 months, Bellafill can last up to 5 years.
2. Collagen Stimulation: The PMMA microspheres stimulate your own collagen production, which can enhance the skin's structure and firmness over time.

Considerations for Keloid-Prone Individuals:
- Keloid Scarring: Individuals prone to keloid scarring have an exaggerated healing response that leads to the formation of raised, thickened scars.
- Risk with Fillers: While Bellafill is generally safe, any injectable filler can potentially trigger an abnormal scarring response in those prone to keloids. This risk is particularly concerning with long-lasting fillers like Bellafill.

Alternatives to Consider:
1. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers: Temporary fillers like Juvederm or Restylane might be safer options. These fillers are less likely to cause prolonged issues if complications arise, as they can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase.
2. Collagen-Stimulating Treatments: Non-filler treatments that stimulate collagen production, such as microneedling, radiofrequency (RF) treatments, or laser therapy, may help improve skin texture and volume without the risks associated with injectables.
3. Sculptra: Another option is Sculptra, a poly-L-lactic acid filler that gradually stimulates collagen production. However, it also lasts longer (up to 2 years), so it should be considered with caution.

Recommendations:
1. Consultation with a Specialist: Before deciding on any treatment, schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has experience treating patients with a history of keloid scarring. They can provide a personalized risk assessment and discuss your goals and concerns.
2. Patch Testing: If considering Bellafill or any other filler, ask about the possibility of a small test injection in an inconspicuous area to monitor your skin's reaction before proceeding with full treatment.
3. Non-Invasive Options: Given your history of keloids, you might want to prioritize non-invasive collagen-stimulating treatments initially to gauge your skin's response.

While Bellafill offers long-lasting results and collagen stimulation, your propensity for keloid scarring warrants cautious consideration. Discussing your options with a specialist who understands your medical history and aesthetic goals will be crucial in determining the safest and most effective treatment plan for you.

I want something long lasting that increases collagen - am I a good candidate for Bellafill? (Photos)

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I want something long lasting that increases collagen - am I a good candidate for Bellafill? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Bellafill

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