Lipolytic agents for submental fat reduction: Review.

RESULT: The review delves into the realm of reducing submental fat, presenting a comprehensive analysis of various lipolytic agents used in plastic surgery and dermatology. The introduction establishes the context by defining the key indicators of a youthful neck and emphasizing the significant influence of fat in the aging process, particularly in the submental area. The usage of aminophylline involves subcutaneous injections, facilitating fat breakdown by increasing cyclic adenosine monophosphate and inhibiting adenosine receptors. Hypotonic pharmacologic lipo-dissolution induces fat dissolution via injected compounds under pressure, while lipolytic lymphatic drainage employs hyaluronidase to reduce tissue viscosity, aiding fat circulation. Glycerophosphorylcholine containing choline alfoscerate claims to activate fat metabolism, whereas the utilization of phosphatidylcholine combined with deoxycholate lacks cosmetic approval due to safety concerns. Deoxycholic acid has FDA approval for submental fat reduction, yet its mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Understanding the complex anatomy and mechanisms of lipolytic agents is essential for safe and effective submental fat reduction, despite evolving practices and off-label utilization. Clinical guidelines and references support this discussion, offering insights for safer applications.

Hand Rejuvenation with Customizable Hybrid Fillers: Premixed Calcium Hydroxyapatite and Hyaluronic Acid.

INTRODUCTION: Hand aging is a prevalent concern characterized by the atrophy of local soft tissues and increased visibility of vessels and tendons. Hyaluronic acid (HA) and calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) are well-established treatments for addressing this issue. While hybrid filler containing HA and CaHA has been proposed for facial rejuvenation, studies investigating its efficacy for hand rejuvenation are lacking. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of a premixed hybrid filler containing calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) and hyaluronic acid (HA) for hand rejuvenation. METHODS: A prospective, double-blind, controlled trial was conducted. The control arm (CA) received conventional subdermal treatment with CaHA at a 1:1 dilution. The intervention arm (IA) underwent hybrid treatment, consisting of CaHA at a 1:1 dilution combined with 1 ml of low-density HA. Evaluation was performed subjectively using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and the Manchester Hand Grading System (MHGS), and objectively using cutometry, corneometry, and ultrasound. RESULTS: Both the CA and the IA exhibited high rates of patient satisfaction and satisfaction as assessed by blinded evaluators. Although numerical superiority was observed in the IA, no statistical difference was found between the two groups. Significant improvements in hydration, elasticity, and skin thickness were observed in both arms, with no discernible difference between them. Greater ultrasound echogenicity was noted in the IA, which, as indicated by existing literature, may suggest enhanced biostimulation. No adverse effects were reported in either arm. CONCLUSION: Premixed filler containing HA and CaHA for hand rejuvenation appears to be a safe and effective approach. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

The Anatomy of the Frontalis Muscle Revisited: A Detailed Anatomic, Clinical, and Physiologic Study.

BACKGROUND: There are differing opinions with regard to the specific mechanical forces related to contraction of the frontalis muscle and how it exerts its effects on eyebrow motion. OBJECTIVES: To perform a detailed anatomic and clinical study of the frontalis muscle in cadavers and patients to better define the movement of the frontalis muscle. METHODS: This study consisted of four arms that included: 1) dynamic ecography to evaluate movement of the frontalis muscle, 2) anatomical study of the relationship between the frontalis muscle and the deep fascia, 3) histological study to define the frontalis muscle attachments and 4) clinical study to evaluate the action of the frontalis muscle in patients undergoing a temporal face lift. RESULTS: The frontalis muscle was attached, inserted, and adhered to the deep layer of the fascia in the superior cephalic and middle third of the forehead. In the superior cephalic third of the forehead, loose areolar tissue was observed deep to the frontalis muscle and the deep layer of the fascia. Within the middle third of the forehead, the deep layer of the galea was fused with the periosteum and firmly adhered. In the inferior caudal third of the forehead, the frontalis muscle was separated from the deep galeal aponeurosis and interdigitated with the orbicularis muscle. When the frontal muscle end was dissected free from the deep fascia by approximately 1 cm and pulled upward, no movement of the eyebrows was observed. Eyebrow elevation was only achieved by pulling on the inferior part of the muscle. CONCLUSIONS: Frontalis muscle movement occurs from the inferior caudal end towards the mid part of the muscle as it contracts centripetally on its superficial layer sliding over the deep part strongly attached to the deep fascia.