Correction of Nasolabial Folds Using Polydioxanone Cog Threads Combined With Botulinum Toxin Type A: A Prospective...

Area of Science:

• Aesthetic Medicine
• Dermatology
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Nasolabial folds (NLFs) are a primary concern for patients seeking facial rejuvenation.
• Polydioxanone (PDO) cog thread lifting is a common minimally invasive technique.
• The dynamic nature of facial muscles can impact the longevity of thread lifts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and durability of PDO cog thread lifting alone versus combined with botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) for moderate NLFs.
• To evaluate wrinkle depth, aesthetic improvement, and patient satisfaction.
• To assess the safety and complication profile of the combined treatment.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational study with 32 patients (40-65 years) with moderate NLFs (MFWS grades 2-3).
• Group A: PDO cog thread lifting alone. Group B: PDO cog thread lifting followed by BoNT-A injections.
• Outcomes assessed using wrinkle depth, MFWS, GAIS, patient satisfaction, and complications at multiple time points up to 6 months.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed initial improvement, but the combination group (BoNT-A + threads) demonstrated significantly greater wrinkle reduction and improved MFWS scores at 3 and 6 months.
• The combination group reported higher Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and patient satisfaction ratings.
• Complications were mild and comparable between groups, including bruising, swelling, and temporary dimpling, with no serious adverse events.

Conclusions:

• Adjunctive BoNT-A significantly enhances and prolongs the aesthetic outcomes of PDO cog thread lifting for NLFs.
• The combination therapy effectively mitigates dynamic muscular forces that can counteract thread lift elevation.
• This synergistic, minimally invasive protocol offers a safe, effective, and more durable midfacial rejuvenation strategy than thread lifting alone.