Treatment of Infraorbital Skin Depressions using the Hyaluronic Acid Filler VYC-15L Based on the MD Codes Approach: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

Background: VYC-15L is hyaluronic acid filler with relatively low G’ and cohesivity, well suited for the treatment of infraorbital skin depressions. The present study was intended to assess the safety and effectiveness of VYC-15L in this indication in real-world clinical practice. Methods: This was a retrospective review of data from adult patients receiving bilateral treatment of infraorbital skin depressions using VYC-15L. The injection pattern followed the ‘ 3-point tear trough reshape ’ proposed in the standardized MD CodesTM methodology, based on points Tt1 (central infraorbital), Tt2 (lateral infraorbital) and Tt3 (medial infraorbital). Pre-treatment with fractional laser was allowed in patients with skin chromophores. Results: In total, 119 patients were included (mean age: 44.8 ± 12.1 years; n=92 female [77.3%]). Mean injection quantities of VYC-15L per side were: 0.22 ± 0.06 mL in Tt1, 0.22 ± 0.06 mL in Tt2, and 0.11 ± 0.03 mL in Tt3. Touch-up was required 2 weeks after initial treatment in 12 patients (10.1%), using 0.1 mL of VYC-15L per side. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction with outcomes. Eight adverse events were recorded: injection-site hyperpigmentation, n=5 (4.2%); late edema, n=3 (2.5%). All were mild and resolved without sequelae. Forty patients (33.6%) received prior treatment with fractional laser; this had no impact on VYC-15L injection quantities or adverse event profile, suggesting that combined treatment is safe. Conclusion: Use of VYC-15L for the treatment of infraorbital skin depressions, based on the MD Codes approach, was safe and effective. This combination of product and technique could become the gold standard.