Poly-L-lactic acid injections in sagging body skin

Introduction: The treatment of sagging skin in body areas is still a big challenge, as there are few aesthetic procedures aiming to improve it. The poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is an injectable synthetic polymer of the alpha-hydroxy acids family, which injection into the deep dermis or superficial hypodermis induces a local and gradual reaction, with synthesis of new collagen by the fibroblasts and consequent increase of dermal thickness. Purpose: Evaluate the effects of poly-L-lactic acid on the sagging skin of the body. Methods: Fourteen patients with sagging in gluteal region underwent two applications of poly-L-lactic acid with a 45 days interval between them. We performed an initial clinical evaluation and after six months of the second application, photos before and after six months of treatment, questionnaires answered by the patient and by the evaluating physician and ultrasound examination of all patients to assess the increase of dermal thickness. The adverse effects observed were also evaluated. Results: In patient’s opinion, 85% presented improvement of general appearance of the skin and 71% noticed improvement of sagging. For the evaluating physician, 100% of patients presented improvement of general appearance of the skin and improvement of sagging, but in different degrees and not proportional to the initial degree of severity. There was no significant side effects in the period evaluated. Conclusions: The results are promising and should be confirmed with studies with a larger sample size.