:: Artecoll

Artecoll® is a long lasting injectable implant that is used to correct wrinkles and folds, enhance lip volume and soften acne scars. Composed of PMMA microspheres, which are suspended in a collagen solution, Artecoll® utilizes the body's natural ability to encapsulate foreign bodies by forming a connective tissue around these microspheres. The process of encapsulation is complete in about 3 months.

It is important that only small amounts of Artecoll® are injected so that the degree of correction can be assessed to prevent over injection. A series of injections may be necessary at 2-3 month intervals, with the complete correction taking up to a year.

Four weeks prior to a treatment, a skin test is done to determine if you are sensitive or allergic to the collagen in the Artecoll® implant. An additional skin test for Artecoll® is unnecessary if you have already had previous bovine collagen treatments.

The implant may feel hard at first. However, it will soften over time as your body produces its own collagen and new connective tissue.

Cost
There is a fee of $50 for the skin test. A single syringe of Artecoll® costs $650.00, but the number of syringes needed to provide a full correction depends on the area and depth of the lines or folds.

Risks and Complications
Minor swelling, redness, bruising, tenderness and itchiness are all possible side effects, lasting only 1-2 days. In rare cases, nodules may appear at the injection sites.