Sculptra: the New Three-Dimensional Filler

A randomized study of the efficacy and safety of injectable poly-L-lactic acid versus human-based collagen implant in the treatment of nasolabial fold wrinkles

“…It should be noted, however, that since the beginning of this study in July 2004, and based on their clinical experience with injectable PLLA, several clinicians have recommended using slightly longer time periods of 4 to 6 weeks between treatments as opposed to 3 weeks as was done in this study. 20,[31][32][33] The rationale for extending the treatment intervals to 4 to 6 weeks includes providing for the adequate assessment of the full volumetric response to the previous treatments and to minimize the potential for the occurrence of nodules and papules. 20,31,34 A higher incidence rate of overall product-related AEs (35.9% [42/117] vs 20.7% [24/116]) was observed in the collagen group compared with the injectable PLLA group.…”

Blood Aspiration Test for Cosmetic Fillers to Prevent Accidental Intravascular Injection in the Face

“…The polymer PLLA is a resorbable biocompatible powder that is reconstituted with distilled water and lidocaine and used to add volume or as a biostimulator (concentration, 12-20 mL). 8 Calcium hydroxyapatite is a white material with microspheres (45 mm) of calcium hydroxyapatite in a carboxymethyl cellulose gel that may function as a filler, biostimulator, and inducer of new collagen formation within 6 months after injection.…”

Optimizing Injectable Poly-L-Lactic Acid Administration for Soft Tissue Augmentation: The Rationale for Three Treatment Sessions

“…This practice is based on the treat-to-repair, wait-torestore and assess-to-refine concept (32,33), wherein each series of injections is believed to contribute to a foreign body response. Because each patient responds differently to treatment with injectable PLLA, it is important to allow sufficient time between treatments to avoid overcorrection of the original deficit.…”

“…It is also crucial to assess the effects of each previous series of injections to determine what refinements are needed before proceeding with additional treatment. This has been previously described in the literature as the 'treat-wait-assess' approach, and has been successfully applied in the correction of HIV-related facial lipoatrophy and for volume restoration in antiaging treatment (32,33).…”