title: The evolution of injectable poly-L-lactic acid from the correction of HIV-related facial lipoatrophy to aging-related facial contour deficiencies.
abstract: Loss of facial volume due to skeletal resorption and facial fat redistribution is considered a primary cause for increased skin folding and sagging associated with aging. The objective of this review is to examine how use of injectable poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) for correction of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated facial lipoatrophy supports wider use in treating aging-related facial changes given its approval for aesthetic use. A literature review of studies evaluating injectable PLLA for the treatment of HIV-associated or aging-related contour deficiencies was conducted via MEDLINE, supplemented by the author's clinical experience. In clinical trials of HIV-related facial lipoatrophy, injectable PLLA increased dermal thickness for up to 96 weeks. Another study showed significant improvements in aging-related nasolabial fold wrinkles that lasted up to 25 months. Understanding differences in the use of injectable PLLA between patients with HIV and those with aging-related facial changes will help physicians optimize patient treatment.
authors: Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, Washington, DC 20037, USA. cheryl.burgess@ctr4dermatology.com
authors: Cheryl
authors: C
authors: Burgess
mesh_terms: D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques; D005145:Face; D039682:HIV-Associated Lipodystrophy Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections; D019344:Lactic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D011091:Polyesters; D011108:Polymers / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D015595:Skin Aging / Q000187:drug effects*
chemical_list: D011091:Polyesters; D011108:Polymers; D019344:Lactic Acid; C033616:poly(lactide)