Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic, biocompatible substance that has been used in medicine for much of the last century. In dermal fillers, PMMA takes the form of a tiny ball that remains beneath the skin indefinitely to provide continued support. PMMA fillers also contain collagen.
PMMA is considered a semi-permanent filler and is most often used to treat medium-to-deep wrinkles, folds and furrows, particularly smile and laugh lines. It can also be used to fill out pitted scars, including acne scars.
When a more permanent solution to facial wrinkles is desired, PMMA is often used instead of Hyaluronic Acid fillers.
FDA approved PMMA fillers include Bellafill®.
Additional Information
- PMMA fillers typically contain about 20% PMMA microspheres suspended in 80% collagen gel[1].
- The collagen in the gel is gradually absorbed by the body, while the PMMA microspheres remain[1].
- Results can take up to three months to fully develop[1][4].
Minor Clarification
While PMMA can be used as a more permanent alternative to Hyaluronic Acid fillers, it’s important to note that the choice between fillers depends on various factors, including the specific area being treated, desired longevity, and individual patient characteristics[4][8].
Citations:
[1] https://www.plasticsurgery.org/x27091
[2] https://www.maylips.com/blog/polymethyl-methacrylate-injectable-fillers.html
[3] https://www.vidawellnessandbeauty.com/skincare/pmma-vs-juvederm/
[4] https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/dermal-fillers/types
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9174739/
[6] https://www.rejuvenationresource.com/articles/background-science/background-basic-science-of-polymethylmethacrylate-fillers
[7] https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1125066-overview
[8] https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/dermal-fillers-the-good-the-bad-and-the-dangerous-201907152561