Polylactic Acid (APL) is a synthetic product known for more than 25 years in the medical field, with various therapeutic applications such as suture materials, materials for osteosynthesis or ligament repair or in craniofacial reconstruction and orbital surgery and is known to be highly biocompatible and biodegradable.
Polylactic acid is successfully used to correct facial imperfections and blemishes, such as:
- Surface wrinkles;
- Natural skin furrows/folds;
- Sagging, poorly accentuated cheekbones;
- “Weak” and not very harmonious chin;
Micro-particles of polylactic acid, properly diluted in sterile water, are injected very slowly into the sub-dermal layer through syringes equipped with very thin needles.
The presence of polylactic acid in the dermis gradually (but progressively) stimulates the synthesis of collagen: by doing so, it is possible to appreciate – even if only after 4/6 weeks – a considerable increase in volume of the atrophic areas of the face.
Numerous in vitro and in vivo toxicology and biocompatibility studies on different animal species, as well as in vivo human studies have demonstrated the harmlessness of APL, which is therefore defined as an immunologically inactive substance; even the Food and Drug Administration has recognized APL as “generally safe”.
In the specialized medical literature, there are no known cases of allergic reaction to APL.
Applications:
Recently, a new formulation of a poly-lactic acid hydrogel has been developed in aesthetic medicine for wrinkle filling and skin sagging as a non-animal, biocompatible, non-toxic and long-lasting biodegradable product.
The product is referred to as SCULPTRA™. Implantation of SCULPTRA™ does not require prior skin testing.
After Planting
The patient should absolutely repeat a 3-4 minute massage as instructed by the doctor at least twice a day for the first week and once a day for the second week.
If bruising occurs, apply ice and any products containing vitamin K. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures for 48 hours.
ASSOCIATED and COMBINED TREATMENTS
