A method for forming a phase change memory device is disclosed. A substrate with a bottom electrode thereon is provided. A heating electrode and a dielectric layer are formed on the bottom electrode, wherein the heating electrode is surrounded by the dielectric layer. The heating electrode is etched to form recess in the dielectric layer. A phase change material is deposited on the dielectric layer, filling into the recess. The phase change material is polished to remove a portion of the phase change material exceeding the surface of the dielectric layer and a phase change layer is formed confined in the recess of the dielectric layer. A top electrode is formed on the phase change layer and the dielectric layer.