title: Poly-L-lactic acid: a new dimension in soft tissue augmentation.
abstract: Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a biodegradable, synthetic polymer of L-lactic acid that has been used in a variety of human medical applications for over 40 years. It has recently been approved in the United States for the treatment of HIV-associated facial lipoatrophy. This indication, combined with a European experience that indicates a clinical benefit persisting for up to 2 years, has made PLLA an increasingly popular injectable soft tissue filler in healthy patients. However, controlled clinical studies are necessary to determine whether PLLA benefits healthy patients seeking contour restoration as much as patients seeking treatment for HIV facial lipoatrophy. The present authors reviewed the background and clinical applications of PLLA as treatment for HIV-associated facial lipoatrophy and age-related facial volume loss.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology, Bennett Surgery Center, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, USA. arotunda@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Adam M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Rotunda
authors.forename: Rhoda S
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Narins
mesh_terms: D020341:Absorbable Implants; D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques; D005145:Face; D039682:HIV-Associated Lipodystrophy Syndrome / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous; D019344:Lactic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D011091:Polyesters; D011108:Polymers / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D019736:Prostheses and Implants
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D011091:Polyesters; D011108:Polymers; D019344:Lactic Acid; C033616:poly(lactide)