Correction of Brassiere Strap Grooving with Injectable Poly-L-Lactic Acid in Plastic Surgery Resident Filler and...

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a biocompatible synthetic polymer that induces neocollagenesis by fibroblasts after placement into the reticular dermis and subcutaneous plane. We present an innovative use of this product to treat brassiere strap grooves. The size and weight of hypertrophied breasts can cause physical and psychological problems that can be corrected with reduction mammaplasty. However, bra strap grooving remains an unsightly consequence of brassiere use with large and heavy breasts. PLLA provides an innovative way to treat this deformity in a minimally invasive way, while maintaining relatively long-term results of two years or more. We studied 10 patients who presented to resident filler and neuromodulator clinic to help improve the bra strap groove deformity. The average number of clinic visits was 3.1. The average total number of vials injected was 2.58 on the right and 2.92 on the left. There were no complications or side effects, apart from one patient who reported injection site bruising. Patient surveys demonstrated 70% satisfied with the results and 30% very satisfied. We also discuss resident filler and neuromodulator clinic as an opportunity for resident research.