Chung-An: Volumetric
deficiencies are increasingly recognized as a major component of the
ageing process, and the use of injectable fillers has steadily
increased. Soft-tissue augmentation with Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers
has been the most frequently used treatment to correct facial wrinkles.
However, the efficacy of HA fillers is short-lived.
A
new type of filler was developed whose efficacy was recently studied by
researchers at Chung-Ang University Hospital (CAUH). For the first time
in Korea’s medical history, CAUH researchers confirmed the efficacy and
safety of poly-DL-lactic acid (PDLA, Aesthefill®), which promotes
volumization through the production of collagen.
Researchers
led by Prof. Kim Beom-Joon of the Department of Dermatology, studied
the efficacy of injection with PDLA fillers compared with HA fillers,
and found out that both injections provide comparable efficacy and
safety. In this comparative study, 58 Koreans with deep nasolabial folds
were randomized for injections with PDLA or HA into both nasolabial
folds and observed for 24 weeks. Efficacy was determined by calculating
the changes in Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS) relative to
baseline, and local safety was assessed by reported adverse events. At
week 24, mean improvement in WSRS from baseline was 2.09±0.68
for the PDLA side and 1.54 ±0.65 for the HA side. Both injections were
well tolerated, and the adverse reactions were mild and transient in
most cases.
PDLA
promotes volumization through the production of collagen and
vascularization of existing collagen, whereas Hyaluronic Acid is
injected to the wrinkle to replace lost volume. The major difference of
PDLA filler from exiting fillers is that it facilitates the formation of
collagen and thus the efficacy is amplified 3-6 months after the
injection.
PDLA
with a porous wall structure has been developed and used overseas, as a
filler to stimulate collagen production, providing better volume
results. It was only recently that a Korean company (REGEN Biotech)
developed PDLA filler, Aesthefill®, using its independent technology.
“Since
Aesthefill® has equal-sized particles, it provides more natural results
with less pain compared to exiting PLA fillers. Introduction of
Aesthefill® is expected to facilitate the research and development of
other types of filler materials in Korea”, Professor Kim said.