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Polymethylmethacrylate facial implant: a successful personal experience in Brazil for more than 9 years
Izelda Maria Carvalho Costa1, Cristina Paula Salaro, Mariana Carvalho Costa
1Department of Dermatology, University of Brasília, Brasilia, Brazil. maricosta133@gmail.com
Background:
Synthetic permanent fillers for soft-tissue augmentation have acquired an important role in cosmetic improvement of patients with facial aging, facial atrophic scars, or lipoatrophy leading to facial defects. Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is a filler introduced to the market as one option for long-lasting treatment. PMMA microspheres are purified, and the particles are larger than 20 microm. The product used as a filler has proven to be safe, effective, and long lasting.
Objective:
To determine the efficacy and safety of PMMA as a facial filler.
Methods:
Two hundred sixty-six patients (aged 17-72; 154 women) received injections of PMMA to correct facial defects. The number of sessions ranged from one to four, with an interval of 40 to 60 days between applications.
Results:
Seventy-nine subjects (30%) had facial atrophy related to HIV infection, 159 (60%) had photoaging signs with deep wrinkles and atrophic areas, 25 (9%) had depressive scars from acne process, and three (1%) had residual depressions from lupus profundus. The results were satisfactory and long lasting. Side effects were transient. No late complications were observed.
Conclusion:
PMMA used for the treatment of atrophy, depressions, and facial wrinkles has been shown to be effective, long lasting, safe, and gratifying to patients and physicians.
