Volume / Contour · Midface volume loss
PLLA filler (Sculptra) evidence for Midface volume loss
There is a relatively good level of clinical evidence, and a majority of papers support its effectiveness.
Grade combines the quantity and quality of the research, while direction is a separate signal showing how the papers assess effectiveness.
Includes meta-analysis/SR Median year 2021 Last 5 years 60% Positive results 56% Korea/Asia 2
Known in Korea as
Procedure and brand names vary, but the evidence above applies to the same procedure mechanism.
Key papers
tier1 A Split Face Study Comparing the Effect of a PDLLA Based Product and PLLA on the Nasolabial Fold (NLF).
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Injectable Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is effective in restoring mid-face volume and is widely used treating the nasolabial fold (NLF). This study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of a novel PDLLA based product (PDLLA + non-cross-linked HA; Poly-D, L-lactic acid + hyaluronic acid) with that of a commonly used PLLA for NLF correction. METHODS: In this multi-center, randomized, split-face,...
Journal Article, Multicenter Study, Randomized Controlled Trial, Comparative Study
View on PubMedtier1 Efficacy and Safety of Poly-l-Lactic Acid for Correction of Midfacial Volume Loss and Contour Defects: A Prospective, Multicenter, Randomized, Parallel-Controlled, Evaluator-Blinded, Superiority Trial.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) is widely used in esthetic medicine due to its excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of PLLA facial filler in correcting midfacial volume loss and/or contour defects. METHODS: In this prospective, multicenter, randomized, assessor-blinded, superiority clinical trial, 331 subjects were randomly assigned to...
Journal Article, Multicenter Study, Randomized Controlled Trial, Equivalence Trial
View on PubMedtier1 Midface Projection Using Biostimulatory Poly- l -Lactic Acid Injectable Implant: A Subgroup Analysis of the Cheek Wrinkle Trial.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Correction of cheek wrinkles using poly- l -lactic acid (PLLA-SCA) was demonstrated in a 12-month study. OBJECTIVE: This analysis assessed change from baseline in lifting effect of PLLA-SCA using a 3D camera to provide additional quantified data. METHODS: Subjects received PLLA-SCA (reconstituted in 8 mL of sterile water + 1 mL of 2% lidocaine) in both cheeks or no treatment (control).
Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial
View on PubMedtier1 Safety and Efficacy of Poly-L-Lactic Acid Filler (Gana V vs. Sculptra) Injection for Correction of the Nasolabial Fold: A Double-Blind, Non-Inferiority, Randomized, Split-Face Controlled Trial.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers have shown excellent results as soft tissue fillers for progressive midface volume enhancement, with long-lasting results and high patient satisfaction. OBJECTIVE: Herein, we investigated the safety and effectiveness of a new PLLA filler (Gana V) in comparison with those of the widely used Sculptra. METHODS: This double-blind, non-inferiority, randomized, split-face...
Randomized Controlled Trial, Journal Article, Equivalence Trial
View on PubMedtier1 Non-Hyaluronic Acid Fillers for Midface Augmentation: A Systematic Review.
Abstract summary (English) There has been an increasing role in the use of injectable fillers for rejuvenation of the aging face. In this systematic review, we aim to evaluate the existing literature related to soft tissue fillers of the midface. Specifically, we focus on the non-hyaluronic acid fillers including polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA), and autologous fat.
Journal Article, Systematic Review
View on PubMedtier2 Stimulation of collagenesis by poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and -glycolide polymer (PLGA)-containing absorbable suspension suture and parallel sustained clinical benefit.
Abstract summary (English) BACKGROUND: Though the collagen-stimulating capacity of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is well established, no data are available on collagen stimulation by the PLLA/PLGA within absorbable suspension sutures used for tissue repositioning. AIMS: To characterize collagen stimulation by absorbable suspension sutures through examination of patient biopsies and assess severity of nasolabial folds (NLF) over time....
Clinical Trial, Journal Article
View on PubMedtier2 Quantitative assessment of the longevity of poly-L-lactic acid as a volumizing filler using 3-dimensional photography.
Abstract summary (English) OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the efficacy and longevity of injectable poly-L-lactic acid as a volumizing injectable in the midface region quantitatively using 3-dimensional (3-D) imaging. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Prospective study assessing changes in midfacial volume in 15 women aged between 40 and 60 years using a 3-D imaging system at 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks after 3 treatments with poly-L-lactic acid....
Clinical Trial, Journal Article
View on PubMedtier2 Three-dimensional digital surface imaging measurement of the volumizing effect of injectable poly-L-lactic acid for nasolabial folds.
Abstract summary (English) INTRODUCTION: Injectable poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) is a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer device indicated in Europe for correction of facial contour deficiencies, with a gradual onset of effect that is maintained for up to 25 months. METHODS: In this single-centre, open-label study, 20 adult subjects seeking treatment for facial contour deficiencies were treated with injectable PLLA every 4-6 weeks for ≤6...
Clinical Trial, Journal Article
View on PubMedtier0_review Vision-Threatening Complications of Soft Tissue Fillers: A Report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Abstract summary (English) PURPOSE: To review evidence on ocular complications of injectable soft tissue fillers, identify features associated with risk for vision loss, and assess the efficacy and safety of reported treatments. METHODS: Literature search of the PubMed database was last conducted in May 2024. Articles were limited to English-language original research describing ocular complications of soft tissue fillers.
Journal Article, Review
View on PubMedtier0_review Midface volumization with injectable fillers.
Abstract summary (English) The aging midface has long been overlooked in cosmetic surgery. Our understanding of facial aging in terms of 3 dimensions has placed increased importance on volume restoration. Although an "off-label" indication for most fillers in this facial region, volumization of the midface with injectable fillers is usually a safe and straightforward procedure technically.
Journal Article, Review
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