polymethyl methacrylate microspheres

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres are non-biodegradable, biologically inert synthetic polymer particles used primarily in aesthetic medicine as a permanent dermal filler. Typically measuring 30-40 micrometers in diameter, these microspheres are often suspended in a carrier medium, such as bovine atelo-collagen, to facilitate injection. Upon implantation, the microspheres provide immediate volume and subsequently act as a scaffold that stimulates endogenous collagen deposition (neocollagenesis) by the body's fibroblasts. This dual action results in long-lasting tissue augmentation and wrinkle correction. Originally developed as Artecoll and later refined as Artefill (now Bellafill), PMMA microspheres are FDA-approved for the correction of nasolabial folds and moderate-to-severe acne scars. Beyond aesthetics, PMMA has a long history of use in orthopedics as bone cement.

Brand names

BellafillArtefillArtecollMetacrillProfill

Other names

PMMA microspheresPMMA beadsPolymethylmethacrylate