PMMA has been used since the early 1930's in familiar procedures as dental
prostheses, bone repair, eye lenses, orthopedics and in pacemakers, and since
1947 when the first hip prosthesis was introduced. These microspheres are 4-5
times the size of a red blood cell and are well tolerated by human tissue (no
rejection).

Artecoll is extremely safe and there have been no reports of rejection of the
PMMA microspheres.

How Does Artecoll Work?

Artecoll works by utilizing the body's natural ability to encapsulate foreign bodies
by the formation of connective tissue surrounding the PMMA microspheres. The
work of encapsulation of the microspheres by the body's own connective tissue
(collagen) is complete in about 3 months.

After the swelling has gone down, it is likely that your wrinkles may temporarily
come back after a few weeks which is a common occurrence. As the body
makes its own connective tissue they will start to go away again over the next
few months

The Action of Artecoll

The implanted PMMA microspheres influence the growth of connective tissue
(fibroplasia) and collagen synthesis to increase the volume of soft tissue
underneath the depression for cosmetic enhancement.

Does The Artecoll Injection Have To Be Repeated

Depending on the patient and the revision to be made, a second or third injection
may be involved if the degree of correction from the first injection is not most
desirable. While collagen lasts 3-6 months, Artecoll's lasts for at least 5 years or
more, depending on the patient, and is a long-lasting implant. The implant stays
for the life of the patient and over correction is not suggested.

Can A Face-Lift Be Performed After An Artecoll Implantation?

A face-lift can be done after an Artecoll implantation as the skin on the face is
solid enough to keep the implants from becoming obvious after a face-lift.
However, it should not be used in thin, flabby skin. It is likely that an implant in
thin skin will be visible after a face-lift.

How Long Does Artecoll Last?

The improved results should be visible at least five years or longer depending on
the patient. The implant will remain for the rest of the patient's life. The cosmetic
effect of the implant will diminish over time as new wrinkles are formed.

Possible Side Effects

Redness, swelling, slight bruising and moderate pain after injection are possible
side effects. A common symptom is slight itching at the implantation site. These
symptoms normally subside in a few days.

The Skin Test

The skin test determines if the patient is sensitive or allergic to the collagen or
lidocaine in the product. The test syringe contains a collagen solution and
lidocaine (no PMMA microspheres). The test syringe is injected inside of the
arm near the elbow. The doctor should wait 3-4 weeks after the skin test, and a
second test may be done if the results from the first test are not clear.

Details of Treatment

Pre-Treatment: Testing is required prior to treatment.

Anaesthesia: Topical anaesthetic using EMLA is usually sufficient. Some
individuals may require local anaesthetic.

Treatment: Artecoll is injected into the skin using a fine needle in a fanning
motion. The injection is just beneath the dermal layer.

Post Treatment: Some swelling and bruising will be seen post treatment. Strong
facial movements must be avoided for 2-3 days post collagen.

Complications: The rate of allergic reaction is low, but can be permanent. The
swelling may last for approximately one week.

Touch Up: Touch ups are required within four weeks.






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