Anatomical Considerations for Thread Lifting Procedure.

BACKGROUND: Thread lifting is a minimally invasive procedure that enhances facial aesthetics by repositioning sagging tissues with absorbable threads. It requires a comprehensive understanding of facial anatomy for safe and effective results. AIMS: This study aims to highlight the critical anatomical considerations in thread lifting, including the navigation of facial vascular structures, the protection of facial nerves, manipulation of fat compartments, and engagement of retaining ligaments. These factors are essential for minimizing complications and achieving optimal outcomes. PATIENTS/METHODS: A review was conducted focusing on the anatomical elements critical to thread lifting. The study analyzed clinical outcomes related to vascular structures, nerve pathways, fat compartments, and ligaments in patients undergoing the procedure. RESULTS: The review revealed that careful navigation of facial blood vessels is crucial to avoid complications such as bleeding and bruising. Knowledge of facial nerve pathways is essential to prevent nerve damage, which could result in facial weakness or paralysis. Proper manipulation of facial fat compartments helps address aging-related changes, and engaging retaining ligaments is vital for a sustainable lift without tissue distortion. CONCLUSIONS: Thread lifting demands not only technical skill but also a deep understanding of facial anatomy to ensure patient safety and desired aesthetic results. Expertise in these anatomical considerations is essential for minimizing complications and preserving the natural function of facial structures.

Ocular Complication in Facial Aesthetic Laser and Light Treatments: A Comprehensive Review.

BACKGROUND: The increasing popularity of laser- and light-based esthetic treatments for facial rejuvenation has raised concerns regarding ocular safety. Although these procedures are generally considered safe and effective, there is a growing body of evidence highlighting the potential for ocular complications. This review aims to systematically analyze the types and mechanisms of ocular injuries associated with such treatments, as well as to evaluate preventive measures and management strategies. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases including MEDLINE, PubMed and Ovid for relevant studies published on clinical trials, diagnosis and treatment. Some papers were further reviewed using a double-blinding approach, varying sample sizes, control usage, randomization usage and objective endpoint measurements. All studies were classified according to the Oxford Centre for evidence-based medicine evidence hierarchy. RESULT: Our review identified several types of ocular complications associated with facial laser or light treatments, including but not limited to conjunctival burns, corneal damage, retinal phototoxicity, and transient vision disturbances. The incidence of these complications varies significantly depending on the type of laser or light source employed, treatment parameters, and the anatomical proximity of the eyes to the treatment area. Factors such as inadequate protective measures, patient movement during the procedure, and the operator's experience were found to contribute to the risk of ocular injury. Strategies such as the use of appropriate eye protection, careful patient positioning, and thorough pre-treatment assessments were highlighted as essential preventive measures. CONCLUSION: Ocular complications, though rare, represent a significant risk in facial esthetic laser and light treatments. This review underscores the importance of awareness among practitioners regarding the potential ocular hazards and the implementation of robust safety protocols. Future research is needed to establish standardized guidelines to minimize risks and enhance patient safety in esthetic dermatological practices. Continued education and improved protective strategies will be essential in safeguarding ocular health as the field of esthetic treatments continues to evolve. This comprehensive review serves as an essential resource for practitioners, informing them of ocular risks, management options, and the need for vigilance to mitigate complications in clinical practice.

Biodegradable polymers and platelet-rich plasma causing visual impairment: a literature review.

BACKGROUND: Dermal fillers are widely used for facial rejuvenation and esthetic enhancement, offering temporary solutions for aging and volume loss. Despite their general safety, a rare but severe complication associated with these fillers is visual impairment, including blindness. This underscores the need for a thorough understanding of risks associated with various filler materials. Historical cases of blindness following filler injections date back to 1963, with increasing reports linked to the expansion of the cosmetic filler industry. While hyaluronic acid (HA) and autologous fat have been extensively studied, other fillers such as calcium hydroxylapatite and poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) are less understood. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aims to address gaps in the literature by providing a comprehensive overview of visual impairment caused by fillers other than HA and autologous fat. We systematically examine the prevalence, causes, clinical features, and treatment outcomes associated with these less common fillers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar using terms related to visual impairment and dermal fillers. Studies published between 2014 and 2021, including observational studies and case reports, were included. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and a PRISMA flow diagram was used to illustrate the study selection process. RESULTS: The review identifies and summarizes cases of visual impairment associated with calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-d,l-lactic acid (PDLLA), and PLLA fillers. Key findings reveal that visual impairment following these fillers is rare but can occur suddenly or within a few days of the procedure. Cases of delayed onset up to two weeks are also noted, emphasizing the need for extended post-procedure monitoring. DISCUSSION: The review highlights unique insights into the risks associated with non-HA fillers, such as the heightened risk in the periorbital region and other facial areas. It explores mechanisms of complications, including retrograde flow of emboli leading to retinal ischemia. The discussion also covers emergency protocols and preventative measures, providing valuable guidance for managing and mitigating risks. CONCLUSIONS: Visual impairment caused by fillers other than HA and autologous fat, while rare, represents a serious complication that requires careful attention. This review contributes new perspectives on the differential risks of various fillers, symptom onset variability, and anatomical risk factors. Emphasizing the importance of proper patient selection, technique, and monitoring, it calls for further research to better understand and prevent these complications, ultimately aiming for safer and more effective use of soft-tissue fillers.

Poly-d,l-lactic Acid (PDLLA) Application in Dermatology: A Literature Review.

Poly-d,l-lactic acid (PDLLA) is a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer that has garnered significant attention in dermatology due to its unique properties and versatile applications. This literature review offers a comprehensive analysis of PDLLA's roles in various dermatological conditions and wound-healing applications. PDLLA demonstrates significant benefits in enhancing skin elasticity and firmness, reducing wrinkles, and promoting tissue regeneration and scar remodeling. Its biodegradable properties render it highly suitable for soft tissue augmentation, including facial and breast reconstruction. We discuss the critical importance of understanding PDLLA's physical and chemical characteristics to optimize its performance and safety, with a focus on how nano- and micro-particulate systems can improve delivery and stability. While potential complications, such as granuloma formation and non-inflammatory nodules, are highlighted, effective monitoring and early intervention strategies are essential. PDLLA's applications extend beyond dermatology into orthopedics and drug delivery, owing to its superior mechanical stability and biocompatibility. This review underscores the need for ongoing research to fully elucidate the mechanisms of PDLLA and to maximize its therapeutic potential across diverse medical fields.

Anatomical Guidelines and Technical Tips for Neck Aesthetics with Botulinum Toxin.

Botulinum toxin can be used for various purposes to enhance neck aesthetics, addressing concerns such as platysmal bands, optimizing the cervicomental angle, preventing worsening of horizontal neckline and decolletage lines during aging, submandibular gland hypertrophy, and hypertrophied superior trapezius muscle. Understanding the anatomy of muscles such as the trapezius, platysma, and submandibular gland is crucial for achieving desirable outcomes with botulinum toxin administration. Techniques for injecting botulinum toxin into these muscles are discussed, emphasizing safety and efficacy. Specific injection points and methods are detailed for treating platysmal bands, optimizing the cervicomental angle, addressing submandibular gland hypertrophy, and managing hypertrophied superior trapezius muscle. Careful consideration of anatomical landmarks and potential complications is essential for successful botulinum toxin injections in these areas.

Cosmeceuticals in photoaging: A review.

BACKGROUND: Photoaging is a process of the architecture of normal skin damaged by ultraviolet radiation. Topical cosmeceuticals have been used to treat this condition. The authors aimed to understand the mechanism and level of evidence of different commonly used cosmeceuticals used to treat photodamaged skin. OBJECTIVE: A range of commonly used topical cosmeceuticals (botanicals, peptides, and hydroquinone) has been used in cosmetic medicine for many years to treat photodamaged skin. This review article compares their efficacy and level of evidence. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study was a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy of different topical cosmeceuticals. Keywords including "Photoaging," "Azelaic acid," "Soy," "Green Tea," "Chamomile," "Ginkgo," "Tea Tree Oil," "Resveratrol," "Cucumber," "Ginseng," "Centella asiatica," "Licorice Root," "Aloe Vera," "Peptides," "Argireline," "Hydroquinone," were typed on OVID, PUBMED, MEDLINE for relevant studies published on photoaging treatment. RESULTS: Most of the evidence behind cosmeceuticals is of high-quality ranging from Level I to Level II. In particular, the evidence base behind peptides is the strongest with most studies achieving Level Ib status in the evidence hierarchy. CONCLUSION: Topical cosmeceuticals like botanicals, peptides and hydroquinone can effectively treat photodamaged skin.

Rheological Characteristics of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers as Viscoelastic Substances.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are widely used in esthetic medicine and are categorized into biphasic and monophasic types based on their manufacturing processes. To evaluate the quality of these fillers, it is essential to understand their rheological properties, which reflect their viscoelastic nature. Rheology, the study of material deformation and flow, reveals how fillers behave under stress, combining properties of solids and liquids. This study explores the fundamental principles of elasticity and viscosity, rooted in Hooke's law of elasticity and Newton's law of viscosity, to explain the complex behavior of viscoelastic substances like HA fillers. The distinction between biphasic and monophasic fillers lies in their chemical cross-linking processes, which impact their molecular weight, structure, and ultimately, their clinical performance. Biphasic fillers with minimal cross-linking rely on natural molecular entanglements, exhibiting lower modification efficiency and greater elasticity. Conversely, monophasic fillers, which undergo extensive chemical cross-linking, demonstrate higher modification efficiency, firmer texture, and enhanced resistance to enzymatic degradation. The study emphasizes the importance of thoroughly removing residual cross-linking agents to ensure filler safety. Understanding these rheological characteristics aids clinicians in selecting appropriate fillers based on injection sites, tissue conditions, and desired outcomes, balancing viscoelastic properties and safety for optimal esthetic results.

Reverse and antegrade vector thread lifting techniques: Correcting nasolabial and marionette lines.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluates the efficacy of reverse and antegrade thread lifting vectors in conjunction with thread selection for correcting nasolabial folds and marionette lines, aiming to enhance treatment precision and effectiveness. METHODS: Three female patients aged 43, 48, and 53, presenting with primary concerns regarding nasolabial folds, underwent distinct treatment regimens utilizing various types of threads and vectors. Additionally, video demonstrations were recorded to showcase the procedural techniques employed in each case. RESULTS: The outcomes of the thread lifting procedures demonstrated significant improvements in the correction of the nasolabial fold and marionette line. CONCLUSION: Innovative thread insertion techniques involve entry points above the zygomatic arch and threading toward the temple hairline for lateral face lifting. These utilize barbs to pull skin and underlying tissues. The reversal technique involves inserting threads in a criss-cross pattern, forming a fibrous structure that may prolong the duration of results. Various thread combinations, considering factors such as composition, thickness, and barb size, provide customized procedures. This research introduces clinical applications, including temple area hairline lifting for nasolabial fold and marionette line correction, reverse vectors targeting nasolabial folds and marionette lines, and antegrade approaches from the lateral side.

Review of the Adverse Effects Associated with Dermal Filler Treatments: Part I Nodules, Granuloma, and Migration.

The increase in the use of filler treatments within minimally invasive cosmetic surgery has correspondingly escalated the variety and frequency of associated side effects. Initially, unregulated procedures led to primary side effects such as infections, foreign body reactions, and granuloma formation. However, severe vascular complications like skin and tissue necrosis and blindness have emerged as recognized risks. Side effects from filler treatments can range from mild to life-threatening, including edema, pain, tenderness, numbness, bleeding, bruising, hematoma, redness, erythema, pigmentation, allergic reactions, itching, pruritus, the Tyndall effect, asymmetry, irregularity, migration, skin and soft tissue infections, nodules, granulomas, and vascular compromise. These side effects are categorized into early and delayed types. Many complications, particularly those related to vascular abnormalities, are frequently linked to procedural issues, emphasizing the importance of understanding filler properties, injection techniques, and facial anatomy. Preventing side effects is ideal, but early detection and treatment are crucial. Recognizing potential side effects based on their timing and understanding appropriate preemptive treatment methods is essential. This discussion addresses non-vascular side effects, highlighting their onset, symptoms, and management strategies. The comprehensive understanding and careful management of these side effects are vital for minimizing complications and ensuring patient safety in filler treatments.

Adverse Effects Associated with Dermal Filler Treatments: Part II Vascular Complication.

Vascular complications arising from dermal filler treatments pose significant risks, including ischemia, tissue necrosis, and severe outcomes like blindness and pulmonary embolism. This study investigates the mechanisms of vascular complications, categorizing them into extravascular compression and intravascular emboli. Extravascular compression occurs when injected fillers compress adjacent blood vessels, leading to ischemia and potential necrosis, while intravascular emboli result from fillers entering blood vessels, causing blockages. The study emphasizes the importance of anatomical knowledge, careful injection techniques, and early intervention. Management strategies include the use of hyaluronidase to dissolve HA fillers, vasodilators to improve blood circulation, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The regions most susceptible to complications align with major arterial pathways, particularly the nasolabial folds and nasal region. The study also highlights the need for meticulous injection techniques, the use of cannulas over needles in high-risk areas, and the aspiration test to detect vessel penetration. Early detection and immediate intervention are crucial to mitigate adverse outcomes. Continuous education and training for practitioners, along with advancements in filler materials and injection methods, are essential for improving the safety of cosmetic procedures. This comprehensive understanding aids in preventing and managing vascular complications, ensuring better patient outcomes. The field of dermal filler treatments is advancing with new techniques and technologies, such as High-Resolution Ultrasound, Infrared Imaging, self-crossing hyaluronic acid filler, biodegradable microspheres, and microinjection.

Using dermal filler to camouflage forehead osteoma: A case report.

OBJECTIVE: To review the technique and outcomes of using dermal filler to camouflage forehead osteoma, providing a minimally invasive alternative to surgical excision. BACKGROUND: Forehead osteoma, commonly known as a forehead bump or bone spur, can be a cosmetic concern. Surgical excision, while effective, carries risks of scarring and postoperative complications. An innovative approach using dermal filler offers a potential solution. METHODS: A hyaluronic acid­based filler is injected into the deep subcutaneous plane over the bony prominence using a cannula. The fanning technique ensures even distribution of the filler. The procedure's safety, patient selection, and communication between the injector and patient are emphasized to achieve optimal results. RESULTS: The technique provides immediate aesthetic improvement with results that can last up to 12 months, depending on the filler used. While generally safe, potential complications include infections, swelling, asymmetry, and lumpiness. Proper technique, patient selection, and good communication between the injector and patient are critical to achieving optimal outcomes. CONCLUSION: Using dermal filler to camouflage forehead osteoma is a minimally invasive alternative to surgical excision, offering immediate and long­lasting results with minimal downtime and fewer risks. Further studies are needed to refine the technique and optimize outcomes.

Clinical Applications of Exosomes: A Critical Review.

Exosomes, small membrane-bound vesicles secreted by cells, have gained significant attention for their therapeutic potential. Measuring 30-100 nm in diameter and derived from various cell types, exosomes play a crucial role in intercellular communication by transferring proteins, lipids, and RNA between cells. This review analyzes existing literature on the clinical applications of exosomes. We conducted a comprehensive search of peer-reviewed articles and clinical trial data to evaluate the benefits, limitations, and challenges of exosome-based therapies. Key areas of focus included regenerative medicine, cancer therapy, gene therapy, and diagnostic biomarkers. This review highlights the vast clinical applications of exosomes. In regenerative medicine, exosomes facilitate tissue repair and regeneration. In cancer therapy, exosomes can deliver therapeutic agents directly to tumor cells. In gene therapy, exosomes serve as vectors for gene delivery. As diagnostic biomarkers, they are useful in diagnosing various diseases. Challenges such as the isolation, purification, and characterization of exosomes were identified. Current clinical trials demonstrate the potential of exosome-based therapies, though they also reveal significant hurdles. Regulatory issues, including the need for standardization and validation of exosome products, are critical for advancing these therapies. While significant progress has been made in understanding exosome biology, further research is essential to fully unlock their clinical potential. Addressing challenges in isolation, purification, and regulatory standardization is crucial for their successful application in clinical practice. This review provides a concise overview of the clinical applications of exosomes, emphasizing both their therapeutic promise and the obstacles that need to be overcome.

Poly­d,l­lactic acid­enhanced atrophic scar treatment via transdermal microjet drug delivery in Asians.

BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris often results in permanent scars, with atrophic scars being the most common type and posing a significant therapeutic challenge due to their prevalence and impact on patients' quality of life. Various treatment options exist, including the use of poly-d,l-lactic acid delivered via different methods. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of poly-d,l-lactic acid delivered via laser-assisted needle-free microjet injection for treating atrophic scars. METHODS: Five Korean participants with atrophic facial scars were recruited. Poly-d,l-lactic acid solution was administered via the Mirajet system in five sessions, with clinical assessments conducted at baseline, before each session, and at 12-week and 22-week follow-ups. Outcome measures included the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale and patient satisfaction scores. RESULTS: Positive results were observed at the 12-week and 22-week follow-ups, with high patient satisfaction and improvements in atrophic scars and skin texture. Mild discomfort and transient side effects were reported, with no adverse events observed during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Poly-d,l-lactic acid delivered by a laser-assisted needle-free microjet injector was judged to be effective for improving atrophic the facial area. Further research, particularly through randomized controlled trials, is needed to validate these findings and assess the longer-term safety and sustainability of outcomes.

Use of platelet rich plasma for skin rejuvenation.

OBJECTIVE: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is recognized as a safe and effective therapy for regenerative skin healing and rejuvenation, utilizing autologous blood enriched with various growth factors. This review aims to assess the efficacy of PRP treatments for skin rejuvenation. METHODS: Keywords such as "platelet-rich plasma," "rejuvenation," "skin aging," and "wrinkles" were queried on Ovid, PubMed, and MEDLINE to identify pertinent studies on PRP treatment for skin rejuvenation. RESULTS: Analysis revealed that PRP treatment led to significant enhancements in multiple facial parameters after one to three sessions. Improvements were noted in skin pore size, texture, wrinkle reduction, pigmented spots, collagen density, hyaluronic acid levels, and protection against ultraviolet damage. Combining PRP with hyaluronic acid demonstrated a synergistic effect, particularly enhancing skin elasticity in patients with lower body mass index and firmness in individuals aged 50s and 60s. Incorporating both physical and biometric data for assessment proved superior to relying solely on physical observations for evaluating subtle skin quality and structural changes. CONCLUSION: This study underscores the efficacy of PRP monotherapy for skin rejuvenation and emphasizes the necessity of standardizing PRP preparation protocols in future investigations. Heightened awareness and advancements in technology have contributed to the emergence of higher-quality, less biased studies supporting PRP as a reliable and safe therapeutic option for skin rejuvenation.