Comparative Physicochemical Characterization of Polylactic Acid-Based Dermal Fillers.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dermatology
• Cosmetic Surgery

Background:

• Polylactic acid (PLA) fillers, including poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) and poly(D,L-lactic acid) (PDLLA), are used for soft tissue augmentation.
• While effective, variations in their physicochemical properties can impact handling and clinical performance.
• A comprehensive comparison of these properties across different PLA fillers is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically compare the physicochemical characteristics of commercially available poly(D,L-lactic acid) (PDLLA) and poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) dermal fillers.
• To provide data that can assist clinicians in selecting appropriate poly(lactic acid) fillers based on material properties.

Main Methods:

• Physicochemical properties of three PDLLA fillers (AestheFill, NeoFilera, Juvelook) and one PLLA filler (Sculptra) were analyzed.
• Methods included functional group identification, particle morphology and size analysis, reconstitution time, osmotic pressure, and viscosity measurements.

Main Results:

• AestheFill and NeoFilera showed similar functional groups, size distribution, osmotic pressure, and viscosity.
• Sculptra (PLLA) exhibited distinct particle morphology and viscosity compared to PDLLA fillers, though it shared functional groups and osmotic pressure with Juvelook.
• Sculptra, NeoFilera, and Juvelook had significantly shorter reconstitution times than AestheFill.

Conclusions:

• Significant differences in physicochemical properties exist among poly(lactic acid) dermal fillers.
• These variations, particularly in particle morphology, viscosity, and reconstitution time, may influence clinical performance.
• Further research is needed to correlate these material properties with clinical outcomes, but this study aids informed product selection.