How long after an Artefil injection can an allergic reaction present? (photos)

Question

2 years ago, Artefil was injected under my eyes. For the past 12 months, I've had edema, raised itchy welts around my eyes with a rash on chest. Can this be Artefil related? The reaction does not seem to be related to any food or environmental cause. Today's flare up is MUCH worse than these photos -- swollen like a prize fighter.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Bellafiil is an FDA-Approved facial filler that has been used to correct facial volume with aging or dermal volume with atrophic acne scars. Results are longer-lasting that Juvederm or Restylane. 
Bellafill and Artefill are known to cause granulomas and permanent nodules with swelling. This is not the case for everyone. 
In my practice, I specialize in the removal of Bellafill and Artefill injections, in addition to silicone biopolymers, from the face and body. Initially, treatments are non-surgical with corticosteroids and immune modulators. If unable to be corrected, we can also perform surgery in some cases. 
Silicone biopolymers can also be removed from the body if there are signs of migration or inflammation. All of these filler-types should be removed as early as possible. 
Lastly, our office is conducting ongoing studies of plasma-assisted corticosteroid application, which allows for diffusion of the treatment medication in superficial tissue without causing atrophy. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Daniel Levy, MD · Answer

Sorry to see and hear about your skin condition.  I do not use Artefill (Bellafill), but I have seen delayed hypersensitivity reactions to this product, which occurs months to years after treatment.  I suggest seeing a Dermatologist to see if there is any possibility of a contact dermatitis caused by something you're exposed to regularly.  Otherwise, follow up with your injector, and perhaps a facial plastic surgeon.Good luck!

Brian Windle, MD (retired) · Answer

I am sorry to hear that you
are having this problem.  From your
pictures and the fact that it is also on your chest suggests that it is a
either a contact dermatitis (makeup, lotions, bed clothing, etc.) or another
dermatitis that can have many different causes.

Your problem is not related
to Artefill (now called Bellafill).  The 5
year follow up study that was submitted to the FDA not long ago showed no
allergic reactions of any kind in over a thousand patients.  In addition, the only ingredient in Bellafill
that can cause a reaction of any kind is the collagen and that is completely
absorbed at 6 months.

I would highly recommend
that you see your primary care provider or a dermatologist so that you can get
a diagnosis and then some treatment. I have added a video about the risks of fillers for you and a link to more information on Bellafill

I hope that helps.

Best regards.

How long after an Artefil injection can an allergic reaction present? (photos)

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