Long lasting facial rejuvenation by repeated placement of calcium hydroxylapatite in elderly women.

Abstract

Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is a biostimulatory filler with long lasting efficacy after a single injection. Data con the effect of repeated injections, however, are sparse. This is a single-center observational study. Forty Caucasian females of Fitzpatrick skin type I to III, aged between 50 and 95 years (mean age 63 ± 13.4 years), and seeking nonsurgical improvement of facial aging were included. Patients with previous face lifts, threads or other surgical treatments were excluded. Only women ≥50 years of age were included. Midface and lower face were treated, that is, cheeks, tear troughs, jawline, and Marionette lines. The usual time for a repetition of filler injection was 12 to 14 months. Mean follow-up was 36 ± 10.8 months after first injection of Radiesse. Outcome was measured using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Mean patient's GAIS was 2.7 ± 0.7, while physicians GAIS was 2.6 ± 0.6 suggesting a remarkable improvement 12 months after the first procedure. Mean patient's GAIS at 3 and 5 years after first procedure was 2.4 ± 0.8, while physicians GAIS was 2.5 ± 0.7. Repeated injection of CaHA leads to a significant and long-lasting improvement of facial appearance.