Artecoll

Artecoll is commonly used to smooth facial wrinkles as well as add volume to the upper and lower lips. Facial wrinkles in adults begin to appear as the underlying collagen and elastin fibres break down. Although part of the natural aging process, wrinkles can also result from excess squinting, frowning and smiling. Genetics and sun exposure also play role in wrinkle formation.

Results from treatments using biological products such as collagen and fat are relatively short lived as the body reabsorbs them in six months to a year. Studies have shown that synthetic materials such as silicone are longer lasting but they migrate and can cause the formation of granulomas. To combat this problem, Dr. Gottfried Lamperle, a renowned plastic surgeon in Germany, invented Artecoll. It combines time proven bovine collagen with inert, medical grade polymethylmethacrylate or PMMA. Approved safe and effective in 1993, Artecoll has been safely used to treat over 10,000 patients around the world.

Ingredients

Collagen is found in every mammal. It is found throughout the body in cartilage, tendons and skin. Collagen acts as glue, binding different structures within the body.

PMMA is an inert plastic used in many medical devices today. PMMA has been used in artificial lens replacements in cataract surgery for over 15 million patients worldwide. Artecoll uses round microspheres of PMMA. Each sphere is smaller in diameter than a human hair, which allows it to be completely encapsulated by your body’s own collagen fibers. Encapsulation prevents dislocation and migration.Before The Treatment
During your initial consult, the doctor will cover all areas of concern, including injection sites, volume required, risks and pre/post injection care. A skin test will also be performed two weeks prior to the injection to test for allergic reactions to collagen.Treatment

Artecoll treatments are performed on an outpatient basis. The procedure usually takes less than twenty minutes. They are relatively painless because a numbing agent is injected to the treated area. The doctor will use a small syringe, fitted with a microneedle, to inject the Artecoll beneath the wrinkles or into the lips.

Patients are up and about immediately after receiving Artecoll to the lips and facial wrinkles/folds. Discomfort is minimal and if present, can be controlled with medication. There may be some swelling, redness and bruising at the treatment site, which may last a few days. This can be easily concealed with makeup. Additional Artecoll treatments may be required for further enhancement. Reactions to local anesthesia, firmness at the injection site, and granuloma formation are uncommon risks.

How Many Treatments Are Needed?

Several injections may be required, depending on the depth of the wrinkle. Usually patients choose one injection to start to see if they like the results. You can determine at first glance if you are satisfied with the results or if you would like more Artecoll injected in the treated areas.

The Results

The new injectable fillers are a very popular non surgical methods to improve wrinkles and enhance your lips. The safety, affordability, and minimal risks have made them a favourite treatment choice in facial rejuvenation. Long lasting lip enhancement and wrinkle reduction are now possible with Artecoll injection (greater than 5 years)

Find out if you could benefit from Artecoll injections. Call our office and arrange your complimentry private physician’s consultation.