Aesthetic Treatment Research Articles

Aesthetic medicine treatments for young men

In the 21st century, a very important element of interpersonal contacts is the perception of another person. Appearance became the essence of these relationships. It is not only the clothes, but the physiognomy of the person we are in contact with. Aesthetic medicine treatments are most often used by women, but in the last decade this has changed, because men have also started to take care of the appearance of their face. That is why it is so important to address the topic of treatments that gentlemen undergo.

Medical aesthetic awareness among public in Malaysia and the factors that may influence it: A cross-sectional study.

Medical aesthetic practice is growing rapidly in Malaysia due to rising market demand, yet public understanding of these practices remains limited. This study evaluated the awareness and attitudes towards medical aesthetics among Malaysians. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among individuals aged > 18 years old in Malaysia from December 2021 to May 2022. The survey was distributed both online and in public settings. The survey comprised of respondents' sociodemographic, perception of physical attractiveness, knowledge and attitude towards medical aesthetic practices. The factors influencing respondents' attitudes towards medical aesthetic practices in the country were analysed using binary logistic regression, with the significance level set at P<0.05. A total of 382 respondents participated in this study with average age of 30.81 (±9.38) years, ranging from 18 to 68 years. The majority were women (77.5%), Malay (53.7%) and Muslim (57.1%). Although most respondents had no prior experience in medical aesthetic treatment (68.1%), 76.2% respondents demonstrated good knowledge and 70.2% had positive attitude towards these services. Additionally, 53.9% of the respondents highly valued the importance of physical attractiveness. The Buddhists and Hindus exhibited more positive attitude than the Muslims. Conversely, those who placed higher importance on physical attractiveness were 0.5 times less likely to develop a positive attitude towards medical aesthetic services. In conclusion, despite limited experience in medical aesthetic treatments and practice, most Malaysians possess good knowledge and positive attitudes towards medical aesthetics, indicating a growing interest and potential willingness to consider these services for enhancing their appearance.

Topical Treatment and Aesthetic Procedures in Management of Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a common, chronic inflammatory skin disease affecting up to 80% of young adults and adolescents. The pathogenesis of acne is multifactorial and involves the pilosebaceous units of the skin. As a result of the disease process, skin lesions such as open and closed comedones, nodules, pustules, and papules appear on the skin. In recent years, acne has been increasingly observed in younger patients, which is associated with the earlier onset of puberty. Moreover, acne is increasingly diagnosed in individuals over 20 years of age, particularly in women, which is referred to as adult female acne (AFA). Effective and rapid implementation of treatment is crucial to prevent complications such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and acne scars, as well as to mitigate the negative psychological impact of the disease on patients. The article discusses both topical treatment and aesthetic medicine procedures in the management of acne vulgaris. Topical treatments include the use of retinoids, antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, clascoterone, dapsone, azelaic acid, and combination therapies. Aesthetic procedures such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, photodynamic therapy, blue light therapy, and laser therapies can be beneficial as adjunctive treatments. The article also addresses the issue of acne as a comorbid condition in patients seeking aesthetic medicine treatments, even if it is not the primary reason for their visit.

Neuromodulators in Skin of Color: An International Review.

As the racial/ethnic diversity of the US population grows, it is imperative for dermatologists to recognize the nuances in the aesthetic treatment of diverse populations. This comprehensive review explores the safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) in skin of color (SOC) populations and highlights variations in aging patterns, skin properties, and aesthetic concerns in SOC populations. A review of PubMed/MEDLINE databases from 2004 to 2024 was performed using combinations of the terms botulinum toxin, SOC, Fitzpatrick, race/ethnicity, and Asian, Latin American, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, African, and Pacific countries. Twenty-three articles examining the use of BTX-A in SOC populations were identified. Twelve studies were from East Asia, 5 from the United States and/or Canada, 3 from South Asia/Southeast Asia, 2 from South America, and 1 from the Middle East. Available data suggest that BTX-A is efficacious and well tolerated in SOC populations. Increased SOC representation in clinical trials may guide the development of tailored treatment approaches to optimize aesthetic outcomes for patients with SOC. A comprehensive knowledge of the variations in aging patterns, skin properties, and aesthetic concerns across SOC populations is essential for providing culturally sensitive cosmetic dermatologic care for diverse populations.

Botulinum Toxin in Treatments for Abnormal Movements

Introduction: Botulinum toxin is crucial for reducing sequelae in movement disorders such as Parkinson's. It blocks muscle contractions and improves quality of life, being used in both aesthetic and medical treatments. Methodology: A non-experimental longitudinal design was adopted, observing variables at multiple time points without manipulation. A mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative) was used with adults over 30 years old without Parkinson's history. The review included documents from PubMed, Scopus, and Scielo, applying rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of botulinum toxin in treating abnormal movements in Parkinson's and understand its long-term effects. Results: Botulinum toxin type A reduces tremors by blocking acetylcholine. It improves motor symptoms of Parkinson's and essential tremor but requires frequent and costly treatments. There is a risk of developing antibodies that decrease its effectiveness. Discussion: It offers significant benefits, but its high cost and the need for frequent treatments are challenges. Patients report satisfaction in short-term studies, but more long-term research is needed. Conclusions: Promising for movement disorders, especially Parkinson's, although limited by cost and duration of effect. Future research should seek to extend therapeutic effects and reduce costs.

Assessment of the Efficacy and Durability of IncobotulinumtoxinA in the Treatment of the Upper Face in Adult Women.

IncobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin®) is used in the treatment of dynamic wrinkles and the aesthetic repositioning of facial structures. The duration of its muscular effect typically extends for around 4months. However, the residual aesthetic benefit can be observed for a longer period. To date, the long-term aesthetic benefit of incobotulinumtoxinA in facial aesthetics has not been systematically evaluated. This study aimed to evaluate longitudinally the duration and aesthetic benefits of incobotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of the upper face in adult women. A quasi-experimental, evaluator-blind, clinical trial involving 28 adult women (30-60years old) with facial movement lines, undergoing treatment of the upper face with incobotulinumtoxinA by two injectors, following an individualized protocol (ONE21 and glabellar contraction patterns) was performed. Participants were evaluated on the day of the intervention (day0) and days30, 120, 180, and 240, and subjected to standardized photographs. The following outcomes were evaluated blindly at each visit: Merz Aesthetics Facial Contraction Scale (MAS), GAIS (Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale), and patient satisfaction. Adverse effects were evaluated at each visit. Participants ranged in age from 30 to 60years, 93% were self-declared white, and most of their baseline MAS scores for dynamic lines were moderate and severe. All the parameters presented significative reduction from baseline until day180. At day240, the dynamic MAS scores were lower than baseline for forehead lines in 15.4% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8-30.0%) of the participants, for glabellar lines in 38.5% (95%CI 18.8-58.1%), and for crow's feet lines in 26.9% (95%CI 9.0-44.8%). Aesthetic improvement compared to baseline was identified in 35% (CI 95% 23‒50%) of the participants at day240, and 62% (CI 95% 42‒81%) of the sample kept reporting some satisfaction with the procedure. The aesthetic treatment of the upper face with incobotulinumtoxinA demonstrates enduring clinical benefits, and patient satisfaction lasting up to 180days in most participants. The length of efficacy, which exceeded those reported in the literature, may be attributed to the use of techniques based on individualized assessment such as ONE21 and glabellar patterns of contraction.

TSG-6 Is Involved in Fibrous Structural Remodeling after the Injection of Adipose-derived Stem Cells.

Although aesthetic treatments can rejuvenate the skin, they often cause specific forms of tissue damage. Unlike wounding, which typically results in fibrotic scar tissue, damage from aesthetic treatments induces a distinct histological rejuvenation. The mechanisms that drive this rejuvenation are not yet fully understood. Here, we were interested in cellular responses following aesthetic treatments injecting adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) subcutaneously. Through investigation with an ex vivo experimental model, a key gene was identified that orchestrates fibrous structural changes and tissue remodeling. Using fresh human subcutaneous adipose tissue co-cultured with ASCs, the changes in the fibrous architecture of the tissue were sequentially mapped. The key regulatory genes involved in remodeling were identified using gene expression and computational analyses. We identified the regulatory elements that are crucial for tissue remodeling. Among those, we found that tumor necrosis factor-stimulated gene-6 (TSG-6) is a paracrine mediator essential for the collagen activity. It not only alleviates tissue inflammation but also promotes collagen replacement ex vivo. This is primarily achieved by inhibiting the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps, which are known to promote fibrosis. TSG-6 is a key factor modulating tissue inflammation. As our results demonstrate, after ASCs treatment, this factor directs skin healing away from fibrosis by reducing neutrophil extracellular trap formation in subcutaneous adipose tissue and promotes fibrous rejuvenation.

Dimension, Location and Clinical Importance of Supraorbital Foramen and Notch: A Combined Cadaveric and Dry Skull Study.

The exit points of the supraorbital nerve and its branches hold significant importance in various medical procedures, including supraorbital endoscopic surgeries, forehead-facial aesthetic plastic surgeries, medical aesthetic applications and maxillofacial surgeries. Therefore, the primary objective of the present study was to precisely define the dimension, location and clinical significance of the supraorbital foramen/notch. By doing so, we aimed to enhance our understanding of this anatomical structure and its implications for surgical and aesthetic interventions in the supraorbital region. For our study, we conducted anatomical dissections and bone measurements to assess the significance of anatomical variations of the supraorbital foramen/notch. We utilized a sample consisting of 28 cadavers and 38 skulls. The supraorbital foramen/notch was bilaterally analyzed in all 28 cadavers and 38 dry bones. We morphometrically analyzed the distance between the supraorbital foramen/notch and various anatomical landmarks, including the nasion, supraorbital margin, infraorbital margin, temporal crest, glabella, frontal cavity and midline of the face. Additionally, we measuredthe distance between the supraorbital foramen/notches and the frontal foramen/notches, and the width of the supraorbital foramen/notch and the distance between both supraorbital foramina/notches. There are 32 (57.14%) supraorbital foramina, and the remaining are 24 (42.86%) supraorbital notches in cadavers and there are 36 (47.37%) supraorbital foramina, and the remaining are 40 (52.63%) supraorbital notches in skulls. We observed consistency in the dimension and location values of anatomical measurement parameters between cadavers and dry skulls on both right and left sides, with the exception of the parameter "distance from temporal crest" (p=0.042). Furthermore, our correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between the right and left sides across all parameters, except for the following instances: in dry skulls, "distance from supraorbital margin" and in cadaver parameters, "distance from temporal crest, " "distance from frontal cavity" and "width." In our study, we observed that the distributions of supraorbital foramina and notches were nearly similar. Furthermore, our findings indicated comparable measurements between the right and left sides in both cadavers and skulls. These results suggest a degree of consistency in supraorbital anatomy within our study sample, regardless of the specimen type (cadavers or skulls) or laterality (right or left side). This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. 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.

RimabotulinumtoxinB: An Update.

Botulinum type-A toxin is a well established aesthetic and medical treatment. While the usage of type-B toxin is less common, there is a growing interest in using type-B toxin, especially in those who are treatment resistant. To evaluate the primary FDA-approved clinical applications of rimabotulinumtoxinB, along with established and emerging off-label clinical indications. Articles were reviewed from PubMed database and Food and Drug Adminstration guidelines. Facial rhytids tend to use a higher conversion ratio between type A and type B toxin, due to type B toxin's weaker affinity to muscles and higher affinity for sweat glands. Specially, a 1:100 to 1:50 ratio was utilized for glabellar rhytids, a 1:25 to 1:50 ratio for periocular rhytids, a 1:50 to 1:66.6 ratio for cervical dystonia, a 1:20 to 1:50 ratio for hyperhidrosis, and a 1:25 to 30 ratio for sialorrhea. Type B toxin has demonstrated its safety and efficacy in treating facial rhytids, cervical dystonia, sialorrhea and hyperhidrosis, with potential for novel applications under investigation. Regardless of injection location and clinical applications, dry mouth and dysphagia remained the most common side effects. Across all indications, type B toxin appeared to have a faster onset of action, a dose-dependent clinical duration, and a dose-dependent adverse effect profile.

A Prospective, Multicenter, Evaluator-Blinded, Randomized Study of Diluted Calcium Hydroxylapatite to Treat Decollete Wrinkles.

Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) dermal filler is used for a variety of aesthetic treatments; however, the safety and effectiveness of diluted CaHA for the treatment of d&eacute;collet&eacute; wrinkles have not been established. To demonstrate the effectiveness and safety of diluted CaHA (Radiesse; 1:2 CaHA:saline) injection for the improvement of d&eacute;collet&eacute; wrinkles in females. Eligible females with moderate or severe ratings on the Merz Aesthetic Scale (MAS) Decollete Wrinkles - At Rest received up to 3 injection cycles of diluted CaHA either 8 weeks apart (3 injection cycles) or 16 weeks apart (2 injection cycles). Effectiveness was evaluated by improvement on the MAS. Adverse events were recorded over a 52 week period. Sixteen weeks after the last treatment, the response rate (1-point improvement or greater) on the MAS Decollete Wrinkles - At Rest was 73.5% (P&lt;0.0001; pooled sample) for all patients. The use of diluted CaHA in the decollete also demonstrated a favorable safety profile. Diluted CaHA is a safe and effective treatment for the improvement of decollete wrinkles in females.J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(7):551-556.&nbsp; doi:10.36849/JDD.8261.

Analysis of 4725 Cases of Gluteal Augmentation with Intramuscular Fillers: A Clinical Cohort Study.

In recent years, the aesthetic market has become more prominent for being not only a tool to correct unwanted features but also a social means for improving quality of life. The use of 30% polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) as a gluteal filler has grown in popularity all over the world, being sought after by men and women for body remodeling because it provides a natural look as well as significant long-lasting results. A retrospective, multicenter study analyzed the medical records of 2801 patients who underwent a total of 4725 gluteal filler procedures between January 2009 and December 2021 at the different locations of Clínica Leger. The study protocol was approved by the Brazilian National Research Ethics Commission. The medical records of 2801 patients (2666 women and 135 men) who underwent 4725 gluteal filler injections were retrospectively analyzed. A total of 922,776 mL of PMMA was used (average = 329 mL/patient). The occurrence of 101 adverse events (2.1%) was observed, and no statistically significant relationship between the mean injected volume and the incidence of complications could be found. According to the data presented in this study, the use of PMMA injections with the appropriate volumes for aesthetic treatments and corrections is safe and effective.

Beyond Mastectomy: The Incidence of Subsequent Aesthetic Procedures after Mastectomy with and without Breast Reconstruction.

Mastectomy poses significant challenges to a woman's body image and psychological well-being, and breast reconstruction plays a pivotal role in postoperative quality of life. Following breast reconstruction, many patients choose to have subsequent aesthetic procedures. Data on the prevalence of such subsequent aesthetic interventions are lacking in the literature. The aim of this study was to analyze trends in aesthetic procedures in patients following mastectomy with and without breast reconstruction. The PearlDiver database was queried within its capabilities for patients who underwent mastectomy with and without breast reconstruction, and a variety of aesthetic procedures after mastectomy. Aesthetic procedure rates were compared between cohorts. We identified 365,525 mastectomy patients: 282,815 without reconstruction and 82,710 with reconstruction. In total, 609 patients with reconstruction and 329 without underwent subsequent aesthetic procedures. The rate of aesthetic procedures was higher in the reconstruction group (0.7%) compared with the nonreconstruction group (0.1%; P < 0.001). Patients who chose to have breast reconstruction after mastectomy underwent significantly more subsequent aesthetic procedures compared with those who chose mastectomy alone. Our findings provide insights on the prevalence of aesthetic procedures in postmastectomy patients, highlighting the potentially longitudinal nature of the reconstructive and aesthetic journey beyond the index oncologic procedure. Further research is needed to address motivations for such procedures as well as patient-reported outcomes and satisfaction.

Exploring the psychological and social motivations for aesthetic treatments in the post-COVID era

Exploring the psychological and social motivations for aesthetic treatments in the post-COVID era

The effect of clear aligner treatment on masticatory muscles (masseter, temporalis) activity in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The use of clear aligners is becoming more common for aesthetic orthodontic treatment, but there are still concerns about how they affect mastication biomechanics in the short and long term. The clear aligners treatment (CAT) mechanism changes the position of the mandible and maxilla, especially impacting the masseter muscle. Surface electromyography (sEMG) proves to be a useful method to evaluate masticatory muscle activity (MMA). To analyze the effect of clear aligners treatment on alterations in masticatory muscles (masseter, temporalis) using surface electromyography. Five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar) were searched up to March 2024. Studies in which MMA was evaluated after the installation of orthodontic clear aligners. Screening, data extraction, and quality assessments were performed by four investigators independently. The data, which evaluated temporalis and masseter muscle characteristics during CAT using surface electromyography, was extracted, and the quality of the studies was evaluated. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Six studies (two prospective cohort studies, three observational longitudinal studies, and one observational longitudinal case-control study) with low and moderate risk of bias were included in the qualitative synthesis. Six of these were also included in the meta-analysis. Our study investigated the dynamics of masseter and temporalis muscle activity during CAT. The results show that during maximal voluntary clenching, the masseter muscle demonstrated a significant initial increase (P < .05) followed by a subsequent non-significant decrease. It also showed that submaximal voluntary clenching consistently exhibited a significant reduction in muscle activity throughout the study period (P < .01). Assessment of muscle activity at the mandibular resting position revealed a variety of responses, with some participants showing a significant increase while others exhibited non-significant changes (P < .05, P > .05, respectively). However, the meta-analysis showed a non-significant difference in measuring masseter and temporalis muscles activity during CAT. Based on existing evidence, it is reasonable to conclude that CAT affected MMA. During maximal voluntary clenching, masseter muscle activity initially increased but later decreased, while temporalis muscle activity showed mixed results. Submaximal voluntary clenching revealed a consistent decrease in muscle activity over time. Mandibular resting position assessments showed both increases and no significant changes in muscle activity. However, the existing literature is insufficient to draw concrete conclusions; therefore, well-conducted further research is needed to confirm this statement. This systematic review and meta-analysis were registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO CRD42024522231).

Zigzag Barbed Polydioxanone Thread Implantation and Evaluation Using Polydimethylsiloxane Model to Simulate Thread Migration in Tissue.

Facial lifting with polydioxanone barbed threads has been widely used in aesthetic treatment for years. However, gravity resists the thread and continuously pulls the face downward. This study aims to determine methods to lift the skin more efficiently with longer longevity. The quality of the thread is important and is defined by the pulling and pullout strengths. Moreover, the method of using threads is also important. We compared five thread-implantation techniques and six angles for the V-shaped implantation methods using a polydimethylsiloxane model to simulate thread migration in tissues. The results of the simulated thread-lift techniques can provide valuable information for physicians, enabling a more precise design of facelift surgery techniques.

Real-world experience with a treatment with a skincare regimen of products containing the Macrocystis pyrifera ferment for optimizing facial skin rejuvenation.

Specialized aesthetic skincare treatments are an important part of helping reduce facial signs of aging. This article highlights real-world experience with a Macrocystis pyrifera ferment-containing skincare regimen comprising a cleansing foam, a serum, and a moisturizer with anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, anti-erythema, and healing properties for facial skin condition improvement. The real-world case (RWC) series presented highlights and the expert panel's clinical experience with the M. pyrifera ferment-containing skincare regimen used for 12 weeks to improve facial skin conditions. The panelists convened a meeting to discuss and select RWCs from their practice using the M. pyrifera ferment-containing skincare regimen. The RWC series showed that erythema and inflamed, easily irritated skin bother patients, even when it is mild. Reducing inflammation, erythema, and visible signs of facial aging and improving skin health contributed to patient satisfaction. The M. pyrifera ferment-containing skincare regimen comprising a cleansing foam, a serum, and a moisturizer is effective in decreasing the visible effects of inflammation and signs of aging while promoting healing by enhancing barrier resilience and recovery.

Establishing test-retest reliability and the smallest detectable change of FACE-Q Aesthetic Module scales

BACKGROUNDThe test re-test (TRT) reliability of FACE-Q Aesthetic scales has yet to be assessed. The aim of this study was to establish the TRT reliability of 17 FACE-Q Aesthetic scales, and to determine the smallest detectable change (SDC) that can be identified by these scales. METHODSData were collected from an online international sample (i.e., Prolific). Participants ≥20 years old, who had been to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon for a facial aesthetic treatment within the past 12 months were asked to provide demographic and clinical information and complete an online REDcap survey consisting of 17 FACE-Q Aesthetic scales. Participants were asked if they would be willing to complete the survey again in 7 days. Only participants who reported no important change in the scale construct and completed the re-test within 14 days were included. RESULTSA total of n=342 unique participants completed the TRT survey. The mean age of the sample was 36.6 (±11.5) years and 82.4% were female. With outlier data removed, all FACE-Q scales demonstrated an ICC>0.70 indicating ‘good’ TRT reliability. The standard error of measurement for included scales ranged from 3.37 – 11.87, corresponding to a range of SDCgroup from 0.95 to 3.23 and SDCind from 9.34 to 32.91. CONCLUSIONAll included FACE-Q scales demonstrated sufficient TRT reliability and stability overall after outlier data were removed. The authors provide values for the smallest detectable change for these scales.

Aesthetic Interventions: A Clinical Study on Satisfaction with Personal Appearance

Aesthetic Interventions: A Clinical Study on Satisfaction with Personal Appearance

Aesthetics treatment with injectable fillers in patients with cancer: Safety and quality of life during active antineoplastic therapy.

e23245 Background: Patients treated with antineoplastic treatment,commonly experience physical changes,secondary to the disease,weight loss,stress,and cancer therapy side-effects.Injectable fillers,offer effective and safe soft-tissue manipulations improving patients’ positive body image.While FDA-approved fillers are used in various medical settings,data on the safety and implications on quality of life(QOL)in oncology patients during active cancer therapy are limited.The study aimed to assess oncology patients' safety,QOL and both physician and patients’ perceived skin changes when fillers are used during active cancer therapies. Methods: The study was conducted at the Women's Cancer Center and Dermatology Department between 2021-2023.Female oncology patients treated with antineoplastic therapies completed a validated QOL questionnaire,dermatologist and patient self-evaluation,prior and following aesthetic intervention.Patients were randomly assigned to receive aesthetic treatments. Results: 127 female patients diagnosed with cancer,and treated at a single cancer center were included in the study.Patient mean age was 57 years.Patient diagnoses included breast,ovarian,uterine,cervical,and other cancers(58%, 22%,7%,5%,8%,respectively).31 (24%) patients were randomized to receive filler treatment.106(83%)patients were not treated with fillers,patients were either not randomized to filler treatments,or attributing their abstention to their cancer diagnosis,potential risks shared by other patients,or their treating oncologist.Patients receiving fillers were treated with chemotherapy,chemotherapy and biological agents,biological agents,hormonal therapies,immunotherapy,biological and hormonal therapy(39%,23%,10%,19%,6%,3%,respectively).3 independent dermatologists assessed improved aesthetic parameters following filler treatment,patients appeared less ill,sad,distracted.6-8 weeks post filler injections,there was a markedly improved QOL score,and noticeable positive skin changes by dermatologists and patients evaluation.Patients appeared less tired,angry,worried(45%,38%,35%,respectively).Most patients were satisfied following injections(81%) and planned future aesthetic treatments.More than half of the patients(55%)had no adverse events.Thirteen patients experienced minor dermal side effects (grade 1,42%).While 1 patient developed delayed inflammatory reaction 6-months post injection(grade 2,3%). Conclusions: Aesthetic treatment with filler injections while on anti-cancer treatment,with minimal side effects,statistically improved patient QOL and dermatological measures,enhanced dermatologist and patient sense of positive body image,demonstrating that injectable fillers can be safely recommended to patients receiving anti-neoplastic therapies.

Implications of Rock Art Aesthetics in Olmec Sculpture

AbstractThe development of freestanding stone sculpture by the Olmec people of Mesoamerica's Gulf lowlands has long been considered one of the defining artistic achievements of the Formative period. However, by the Middle Formative period the production of freestanding sculpture was often eclipsed by the contemporaneous creation of rock art outside the Gulf lowlands. In this article I argue that Gulf Olmec sculptors and audiences occasionally co-opted the aesthetic and ritual treatments of rock art at topographic shrines to construct and reinforce the sacred geographies of primary site cores. In so doing, Olmec elites converted the ideological power of the wild and the animate earth into a form of political capital.