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Low dose hyaluronic acid filler for midface volume loss produces high satisfaction in patients

Low-volume doses of hyaluronic acid filler to treat age-related midface volume loss led to similar or better results than higher-volume doses, according to study results published in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery.

The purpose of the study was to assess the efficacy, longevity, and patient satisfaction with low volumes of hyaluronic acid filler.

The retrospective study included 61 eligible patients who had undergone midface rejuvenation for mild-to-severe facial volume loss between Nov. 1, 2013 and April 31, 2014. The mean age of the patients was 57.4 (range, 33-76 years).

Patients and investigators were administered questionnaires to assess aesthetic correction, satisfaction and adverse events at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. The questionnaires were based on the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale ranging from a score of 1 (very satisfied) to 5 (very dissatisfied). Patients were also asked if they would have the procedure again.

The mean total volume injected during the first session was 1.6 mL (range, 1-4 mL) with a total of 30, 27, two and two patients receiving 1, 2, 3 and 4 mL, respectively. Twenty-nine patients received a touch-up treatment at follow up with a mean injection of 1.4 mL (range 1-4 mL). Six patients received a second touch-up with a mean injection of 2.67 mL (range, 1-7 mL).

Patients who received either 1 mL or greater than 2 mL injection at the initial treatment reported higher satisfaction at all time points compared with those injected with 2 mL. Similarly, at all follow-up time points, most patients would elect to undergo the procedure again (range, 17-61) with the most willing patients being in the 1 mL and greater than 2 mL groups.

All reported adverse events, such as edema, erythema and bruising were mild and resolved spontaneously within 14 days of the procedures.

“The key to successful rejuvenation with low volumes of [hyaluronic acid] filler is to not only accurately assess who can anatomically benefit from the procedure but also predict who will be satisfied with the outcome,” the researchers concluded. – by Talitha Bennett

Disclosure: Wilson reports no relevant financial disclosures. Please see the full study for the other researchers’ relevant financial disclosures.