Introduction The purpose of this chapter is to present a brief overview of the use of Poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) to safely and effectively address changes observed with aging on the face and body. PLLA is a biocompatible, biodegradable, synthetic polymer of lactic acid that has been widely used in biomedical applications including sutures, orthopedic devices,… [Read More]
Background/Science
The Science of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
The authors declare no conflicts of interest with respect to the authorship and/or publication of this article. The authors received no financial support for the research and/or authorship of this article. Introduction The aging face comprises many commonly observed characteristics including facial elongation, prominent nasolabial folds, brow ptosis, peri-orbital hollowing, atrophy of the midfacial fat… [Read More]
Background/Basic Science of Calcium Hydroxyapatite Fillers
Introduction Facial aging is a dynamic process that is etiologically multifactorial comprising of environmental factors (e.g., extrinsic aging and effects of gravity), dermal thinning, craniofacial skeletal remodeling (e.g., bone expansion and resorption)1,2 and superficial and deep subcutaneous tissue atrophy,3 which altogether contribute to structural deficits and volume loss. Fat atrophy in the aging face is… [Read More]
Background/Basic Science of Polymethylmethacrylate Fillers
Introduction There are currently more than 200 dermal fillers and volume enhancers available worldwide17—with a seemingly endless stream of new products being designed and manufactured every year. This is undoubtedly in response to the popularity of minimally-invasive aesthetic rejuvenation procedures3. As patients have become more familiar with different dermal fillers, they have also become more… [Read More]