A method for forming a phase-change memory element. The method includes providing a substrate with an electrode formed thereon; sequentially forming a conductive layer and a first dielectric layer on the substrate; forming a patterned photoresist layer on the first dielectric layer; subjecting the patterned photoresist layer to a trimming process, remaining a photoresist pillar; etching the first dielectric layer with the photoresist pillar as etching mask, remaining a dielectric pillar; comformally forming a first phase-change material layer on the conductive layer and the dielectric pillar to cover the top surface and side walls of the dielectric pillar; forming a second dielectric layer to cover the first phase-change material layer; subjecting to the second dielectric layer and the first phase-change material layer to a planarization until exposing the top surface of the dielectric pillar; and forming a second phase-change material layer on the second dielectric layer.