Background: Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a well-established biostimulator that induces neocollagenesis, allowing for volume loss correction. Although PLLA is FDA approved to treat mid-to-lower facial wrinkling, it has grown increasingly popular as a nonsurgical, minimally invasive procedure for soft-tissue volume augmentation of other extremities. However, research detailing PLLA buttock injections is still lacking.
Objective: The purpose of this study is to determine the safety and efficacy of PLLA for buttock augmentation.
Materials and methods: A clinical retrospective review of 60 patients (ages 23-54 years) were followed for 2 years by 2 investigators. Patients underwent 1 to 3 treatments, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, and received 2 to 12 vials per session (based on the patient budget). Pretreatment and post-treatment photographs were assessed by the primary and secondary investigator in blinded and double-blinded surveys, respectively. The Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale was used to quantify improvements in volume, skin texture, and cellulite dimpling.
Results: Poly-L-lactic acid allows for visible volume amplification, improved skin texture, and softened cellulite dimpling in the buttocks when at least 20 vials are used.
Conclusion: Poly-L-lactic acid is safe and effective for overall aesthetic enhancement of the buttocks if used in adequate quantity (minimum 20 vials) for all women, independent of age or the number of sessions.