Bellafill®

Most of the facial fillers we use at our Washington, D.C., practice restore volume using a gel made of a substance that the body gradually absorbs. Bellafill is different because it actually stimulates the long-term growth of collagen–an essential element of smooth, elastic skin–for our patients from Chevy Chase, Arlington, Bethesda, and beyond. It’s approved by the FDA to last up to 5 years.

What Is Bellafill?

Unlike many other fillers made with hyaluronic acid, Bellafill is a smooth gel in which tiny microspheres are suspended in collagen. While the injected collagen works immediately to reduce small wrinkles such as “smile lines,” the microspheres gradually create a scaffold onto which new collagen produced by the body builds up. This collagen foundation adds volume to soften wrinkles.

The substance used to make the microspheres — polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) — is considered a semi-permanent filler and can be used both to treat wrinkles, nasolabial folds and acne scars. PMMA is a biocompatible material that has been safely used in medical implants and other devices for more than 65 years. In addition to collagen and PMMA, Bellafill also includes the local anesthetic lidocaine to help minimize discomfort during the injections.

A Filler for Women and Men

Because Bellafill is approved to last for up to 5 years, patients don’t need to return for maintenance treatments as they do with most fillers that last 6 to 18 months. That makes the idea of getting fillers more attractive to both women and men. Additionally, men who are self-conscious about acne scars can also benefit from Bellafill injections. Whether you’re a woman or man, all patients getting Bellafill for the first time must be tested to make you’re not allergic to the filler.

Other Dermal Filler Options

Our providers may recommend one or more of the following other filler options instead of, or in addition to, Bellafill:

• BELOTERO® is a hyaluronic acid filler that smooths away etched-in lines around the mouth, chin wrinkles, and lip lines. Results last about 6 months.
• RADIESSE® contains CaHA (calcium hydroxylapatite) microspheres that restore volume and stimulate collagen production. This filler can enhance and rejuvenate the cheeks, nose, and backs of the hands. In some cases, we use it to correct wrinkles and facial folds. Results last 12+ months.
• Teoxane RHA fillers contain RHA, for resilient hyaluronic acid, that moves with the face and gives it support. This family of fillers includes options for wrinkles, thin lips, and lost facial volume. Results last up to 18 months.
• JUVÉDERM® family of fillers contain hyaluronic acid for results that look and feel natural. They also contain lidocaine to control discomfort during injection. This family of fillers continues to grow and includes specialized options for wrinkles, volume loss, lips, jawline, and more. Results last up to 2 years, depending on the filler and treated area.
• Restylane® family of fillers contain lidocaine and are made with hyaluronic acid to restore volume and hydration in the skin. This family of fillers includes options with specific purposes, such as augmenting the cheeks and lips, smoothing out nasolabial folds and fine lines, and more. Results last up to 18 months, depending on the filler and treated area.
• Sculptra® Aesthetic is a collagen stimulator that contains poly-L-lactic acid. We use it to restore volume to the face and the backs of the hands, smooth out smile lines and marionette lines around the mouth, and more. Results develop gradually and last up to 2 years.

Frequently Asked Questions