Enhancing Facial Projection: Efficacy and Safety of a Novel Filler Combining Cross-Linked Sodium Hyaluronate Gel With Poly-L-Lactic Acid-b-PEG Microspheres for T-Zone Augmentation

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025 Mar;24(3):e70003. doi: 10.1111/jocd.70003.

Abstract

Background: The nose, eyebrow, and forehead are critical elements of the T-zone, vital for enhancing facial three-dimensionality. Many Asians seek a more contoured and sculpted facial appearance by T-zone augmentation. The novel poly-L-lactic acid microsphere and hyaluronic acid suspension (PLLA-b-PEG/HA) has proven to be a safe and effective dermal filler, making it an appealing choice for individuals aiming for T-zone augmentation.

Objective: To retrospectively assess the efficacy and safety of PLLA-b-PEG/HA injection into the T-zone for aesthetic enhancement.

Methods: Fifteen participants were included in this study. A comprehensive clinical evaluation was performed, including measurements of total facial convexity angle and radix height, the FACE-Q scales for satisfaction with the nose, forehead, and eyebrows, the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), and a 7-item satisfaction scale. Tissue in the peri-eyebrow area was examined 12 months posttreatment for comparison with normal tissues.

Results: Significant increases in radix height and total facial convexity angle were observed at each follow-up visit (p < 0.05). FACE-Q scores also showed significant improvements from baseline in the eyebrows, forehead, and nose at each posttreatment visit (p < 0.001). The GAIS improvement rate remained high, with 80.00% reported by participants and 86.67% by blinded evaluators 12 months after treatment. The satisfaction rate was 73.3% at this time interval. Pathological examinations demonstrated newly formed collagen fibers and microvessels, with no abnormal pathological structure.

Conclusion: The PLLA-b-PEG/HA demonstrates efficacy in enhancing the T-zone (nose, eyebrow, and forehead) with a favorable safety profile.

Keywords: T‐zone; collagen stimulator; eyebrows; forehead; hyaluronic acid; nose; poly‐L‐lactic acid; three‐dimensionality.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cosmetic Techniques* / adverse effects
  • Dermal Fillers* / administration & dosage
  • Dermal Fillers* / adverse effects
  • Esthetics
  • Eyebrows
  • Face
  • Female
  • Forehead
  • Gels
  • Humans
  • Hyaluronic Acid* / administration & dosage
  • Hyaluronic Acid* / adverse effects
  • Hyaluronic Acid* / chemistry
  • Male
  • Microspheres
  • Middle Aged
  • Nose
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Polyesters* / administration & dosage
  • Polyesters* / adverse effects
  • Polyesters* / chemistry
  • Polyethylene Glycols* / administration & dosage
  • Polyethylene Glycols* / adverse effects
  • Polyethylene Glycols* / chemistry
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Skin Aging* / drug effects
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Dermal Fillers
  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • Polyesters
  • Polyethylene Glycols
  • poly(lactide)
  • Gels