Aesthetic Improvement Research Articles

Transtemporal Endoscopic Deep Plane Face Lift.

Facial aging involves multifactorial changes affecting the bone, superficial musculoaponeurotic system, fat pads, and skin, primarily manifesting as the downward displacement of these structures. The transtemporal endoscopic deep plane face lift (TEDPF) suggests a vertical lifting method, targeting these issues without a preauricular incision. A retrospective study was conducted on 140 patients (133 women and 7 men) 33-67 years of age who underwent TEDPF from February 2020 to March 2023. Of these, 42 patients also received a neck lift. The surgical technique involved endoscopic dissection and vertical lifting and fixation of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system layer using specific suture points. An objective photographic analysis was performed by measuring preoperative and postoperative lower eyelid lengths to assess aesthetic outcomes. The follow-up period ranged from 18 to 36 months. Temporary frontal neuropraxia occurred in 5 patients, resolving within 3 weeks to 3 months. Revision surgery was required for 6 patients due to excess preauricular skin or temporal skin accumulation malar dimpling. Significant improvements were observed, especially in periorbital, nasolabial, and jowl areas, enhancing eye shape and reducing the need for lower blepharoplasty. Objective photographic analysis showed a significant reduction in lower eyelid length postoperatively, with a mean percentage reduction of 22.45% in eyelid length (P < 0.05). TEDPF achieves effective vertical lifting for facial rejuvenation, minimizes scarring, and reduces surgery time. It provides notable aesthetic improvements with manageable complications, suitable for patients prone to keloids or seeking less invasive options.

Effects of Face and Body Acupuncture on Glabellar Frown Lines in Women Aged 30-59: a Study Protocol for a Double-Arm Randomized Waitlist-Controlled Trial.

As average life expectancy increases, the role of beauty in quality of life (QOL) becomes more important. Invasive rejuvenation methods, such as cosmetic surgery and botulinum toxin injections, do not address the underlying causes of facial aging, are expensive, and carry inherent risks. Acupuncture, as a holistic alternative, may offer a safer method for facial rejuvenation by addressing the overall health of the body. This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of facial and body acupuncture in reducing frown lines in women aged 30-59 in Mashhad, Iran. A total of 72 participants will be randomly allocated to intervention and control groups. The intervention group will receive 12 sessions of face and body acupuncture over six weeks, while the control group will receive no treatment. The primary outcome will be the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) assessed using standardized photographs. Secondary outcomes include the Subject Satisfaction Scale (SSS) and the QOL scores. Outcomes will be measured at three time points: baseline (week 0), posttreatment (week 7), and follow-up (week 12). The results of this trial will provide robust evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in reducing frown lines.

Orthodontic Management of Deep Bite with Aligners: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

The primary motivation for individuals with deep-bite malocclusion seeking orthodontic treatment is the improvement of aesthetics, occlusion, and functions. Deep bites can be treated by the intrusion of anterior teeth and the extrusion of the posterior teeth, or both, according to the exposure of the incisors in the smile. In this case report, we present the treatment of a female patient with a deep-bite malocclusion. This paper describes the clinical and radiographic changes with orthodontic treatment using Invisalign clear aligners and their effectiveness to normalize the overjet and overbite and enhance both aesthetics and functions.

USING THERMOPLASTIC BASE MATERIALS IN THE CLINIC OF ORTHOPEDIC DENTISTRY IN THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH COMPLETE TOOTH LOSS

Background. Fabrication of high-quality removable orthopedic structures is one of the most important and still unsolved problems in the clinic of prosthetic dentistry. In order to solve this problem, in recent years, new basic dental materials have been developed and researched. Nowadays, orthopedic dentists are increasingly using acrylic-free thermoplastic base materials. They provide opportunities for the treatment of patients, contributing to the improvement of comfort, functionality and aesthetics of complete dentures. The aim of the study is to examine the effectiveness of using basic thermoplastic materials «Vertex ThermoSens» and «Deflex Acrylato» in an orthopedic dentistry clinic in patients with complete absence of teeth. Materials and methods. The base materials used in the study were polyamide (nylon) by «Vertex ThermoSens» (Netherlands) and thermoplastic material based on polymethyl methacrylate by «Deflex Acrylato» (Argentina). We treated 30 patients with complete absence of teeth who had been wearing complete removable dentures made of acrylic base dental materials for the past 4-5 years. New complete dentures were made of thermoplastic dental base materials «Vertex ThermoSens» and «Deflex Acrylato». The effectiveness of prosthetics was evaluated using electromyography of the masticatory muscles (immediately after prosthetics and in certain long-term periods). Results. When analyzing and statistically processing the electromyograms of patients of the first and second groups before prosthetics, the amplitude of compression during the «voluntary compression» test decreased to 188.91±5.16 μV and to 201.13±6.03 μV during the «voluntary chewing» test, which is significantly different from the norm. As for the assessment of the coefficient «K», which in patients with intact dentition is as close to one as possible, its value has almost doubled and is 2.32±0.07. After the orthopedic treatment, the clenching amplitude increases significantly, and the coefficient «K» approaches one. Quantitative indicators of electromyographic studies in patients of the first and second clinical groups after a month and a year of use of complete removable dentures almost do not differ from each other and are close to normal. Conclusions. Based on the research conducted in the clinic of prosthetic dentistry, we noted that in the manufacture of complete dentures from the base thermoplastic materials «Vertex ThermoSens» and «Deflex Acrylato», better fixation and stabilization of these structures is achieved due to a more accurate reflection of the relief of the mucous membrane of the prosthetic bed. Such prostheses are very well processed and polished, which significantly improves their quality and reduces the risk of inflammation of the prosthetic bed mucosa. Based on this, it can be concluded that adaptation to such prostheses takes place in a shorter time and almost without corrections.

Full Mouth Rehabilitation for a Patient with Angle's Class II Division 2 Associated Deep Overbite and Worn Dentition - Case Report With 2-Year Follow-Up and Literature Review.

Some of the critical clinical challenges encountered in the treatment of adult patients with deep overbite and worn dentition include correction of deep overbite, establishment of an appropriate occlusal vertical dimension (OVD), and maintenance of long-term occlusal stability. Although Angle's Class II division 2-associated deep anterior overbite is common in orthodontic treatment, simple prosthodontic treatment with great improvement of deep anterior overbite and worn dentition is infrequently reported. A 51-year-old man with Class II Division 2 malocclusion presented with hypo-divergent facial pattern, reduced lower facial height, and protuberant lips. Intraoral examination revealed unevenly worn dentition and an Angle's Class II division 2-associated deep and traumatic anterior overbite. Based on the challenges of the presentation, it was imperative to design an protocol to ensure a predictable and favorable prognosis. According to the current protocols, prosthetic treatment of occlusal rehabilitation was applied. Following the 3-month evaluation period using interim prostheses, full-mouth ceramic restorations were completed. Significant post-treatment functional and aesthetic improvements were achieved with resultant stable inter-incisal contacts either immediately after treatment or during the 2-year follow-up period. Full mouth rehabilitation offers brilliant prospects for improved function, enhanced aesthetics, and improved health of the entire stomatognathic system of Angle's Class II division 2 patient associated with deep overbite and worn dentitions.

A Pilot One and Two-Year Prospective, Blinded Clinical Evaluation of Efficacy, and Safety of Combined Treatment With Crosslinked Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Filler and Barbed Polydioxanone Suspension Threads for Mid-Face Contour Enhancement.

The combination of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers and polydioxanone (PDO) thread lifting is gaining popularity for mid-face rejuvenation, especially among the Asian population. Despite the common use of these techniques, there is a paucity of long-term studies assessing their combined efficacy and safety. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined HA filler and PDO thread treatment for mid-face rejuvenation over a 24-month period in a Korean population. This prospective, blinded, single-center, open-label trial included 11 Korean subjects, aged 29-70 years, with mid-face volume loss graded 1-4 on the antero-medial cheek fullness scale. Participants were treated with crosslinked HA dermal fillers and PDO threads. Assessments were conducted using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), investigator-led clinical evaluations, and volumetric measurements using the Morpheus 3D system at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months post-treatment. Quantitative analysis revealed a significant reduction in mid-face width from an average baseline of 149.27-145.00 mm at 24 months (p < 0.00001). Similarly, lower-face width decreased from 130.36 to 117.27 mm at 24 months (p < 0.00001). The GAIS scores demonstrated high levels of subject satisfaction, with 9 out of 11 patients reporting consistent satisfaction or improvement over 24 months. Minimal adverse events were reported, and no serious complications occurred. The combination of HA fillers and PDO threads was effective in achieving and maintaining long-term improvements in facial volume and contour. The Morpheus 3D system provided objective volumetric data, which supported the subjective improvements observed by patients and investigators. The study results highlight the benefits of ongoing neocollagenesis and tissue remodeling beyond the dissolution period of the materials. The combination of HA filler injections and PDO thread lifting offers a promising and minimally invasive option for long-term mid-face rejuvenation with high patient satisfaction and a favorable safety profile. Further studies are warranted to confirm these findings across diverse populations and compare this approach with other aesthetic treatments.

The synergistic effect of combining botulinum toxin with polydioxanone threads on the upper face static wrinkles.

With aging, facial lines on the forehead and glabella are sometimes converted from dynamic to static giving an aged appearance. Polydioxanone sutures are popular now as a management option in correcting deep static wrinkles on the upper face.This work was conducted to assess the synergistic efficacy of combining Botulinum toxin injection with Polydioxanone threads on the upper face static wrinkles. 30 adult patients with static wrinkles on forehead were included in this work. They were randomly distributed to one of two groups; threads insertion either alone or with Botulinum toxin injection. Treatment efficacy was evaluated after 2 months by using a Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. Our results displayed a statistically significant improvement in forehead wrinkles in group II compared to group I (P=0.001). There was a trend toward improvement that did not reach significance in glabellar wrinkles in group II compared to group I, but this improvement did not reach the statistical significant level (P<0.112). Absorbable polydioxanone threads can be considered as a third line procedure for wrinkle correction beyond Botulinum toxin and soft tissue fillers. Threads alone don't fit all situations but their combination with Botulinum toxin can give a better natural-looking appearance with more patient satisfaction.

Exploring the Safety and Satisfaction of Patients Injected With Collagen Biostimulators-A Prospective Investigation Into Injectable Poly-l-Lactic Acid (PLLA).

Esthetic medicine has shifted significantly toward non-surgical procedures, with the collagen biostimulator poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) becoming increasingly popular for facial rejuvenation. However, the safety and patient satisfaction associated with PLLA facial treatments remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the safety profile of PLLA treatment and assess patient mid- and long-term satisfaction with the outcome. This prospective single-center study was conducted at Bravo Clinic in Rio de Janeiro from August 2023 to August 2024. The patients' mid and lower face was treated by injecting Rennova Elleva (a collagen biostimulator containing 210 mg of PLLA) into the zygomatic and pre-masseteric regions. All patients underwent monthly clinical evaluations for the first 150 days and kept diaries to self-record any adverse effects during the first 30 days. Patient satisfaction was measured using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) on days 90 and 150 post-injection. The study included 52 female patients [mean age: 49.87 ± 10.7 years; mean body mass index (BMI): 23.99 ± 3.5 kg/m2]. Patients reported mild to moderate injection site reactions, including redness, pain, hardening, swelling, lumps, bruises, and skin discoloration, with most symptoms resolving within a few days. Clinically, no major adverse events were noted, except for one small, painless nodulation that resolved without intervention. On post-injection Day 90, the average GAIS was rated at 2.32 ± 1.0. This rating remained stable at Day 150, with an average GAIS of 2.32 ± 0.8 (p = 0.862). Inverse correlations were identified between the duration of mild pain and GAIS (rs = -0.546, p = 0.035), as well as between the duration of mild bruises and GAIS (rs = -0.598, p = 0.019). The duration of moderate pain was significantly associated with age (rs = -0.894, p = 0.041). Rennova Elleva, a PLLA-based collagen biostimulator, is safe and well-tolerated with a low incidence of adverse effects. It provides long-lasting, satisfactory results for patients with mild to moderate facial sagging, rendering it an effective non-surgical option for enhancing facial esthetics.

Panfacial Approach to Rejuvenation Using Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA): A Case Series Illustrating CaHA Versatility Through Dilution and a Multilayered Treatment Approach

Abstract Background Dermal fillers can be used in a wide range of applications. While the versatility of hyaluronic acid fillers stems from the wide array of available products, for the biostimulatory filler calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), dilution can be used to control product volumizing capacity and flow properties, facilitating use for panfacial rejuvenation. Objectives To share case studies illustrating how CaHA at various dilutions can be used to achieve global aesthetic improvement as part of a multilayered approach to rejuvenation. Methods As part of a continuing medical education activity, the authors treated patients with 1 to 3 sessions of CaHA at various dilutions. Six months after the patients’ initial treatments, the authors reconvened to share their experiences and patient results. Select case studies are presented. Results While undiluted product can be used to provide deeper volume and structural support in areas like the chin, jawline, and temples, more dilute product (1:1 and 1:2) can be used to provide some volume and/or smooth transitions in the face, while hyperdilute CaHA can be used over an even wider surface area in the face, neck, or décolletage to tighten skin and improve skin quality (1:3 and 1:4 dilutions). In the cases presented, patients achieved improvement in appearance through treatment with multiple dilutions of CaHA. Conclusions These cases provide several examples of how CaHA may be used as part of a multilayered approach to facial rejuvenation.

Update on Absorbable Facial Thread Lifts.

Thread lifts are a noninvasive technique for suspending ptotic skin. Previous studies have failed to show long-term efficacy data with absorbable threads. To review the recent literature evaluating mid and lower facial absorbable thread lifts over a four-year period from October 2018 to December 2022. A systematic review was done following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines using the PubMed database. Search terms included "lift," "face lift," "thread lift," "suture suspension," "silhouette suture," "silhouette lift," "rhytidectomy," and "Aptos." Technique articles with objective results were included. Twelve studies met criteria for analysis (n = 818). The most common thread evaluated was suture suspension using polydioxanone followed by poly-l-lactic acid/polycaprolactone absorbable threads. Scores according to the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, Wrinkle Severity Scale, Barton's Grading System, and FACE-Q improved in all cases immediately after the procedure. The longest follow-up assessments were at 2 years. Complications were mild. In the appropriate patient, thread lifts are immediately effective, and the risk of dangerous complications is low, but long-term efficacy data are lacking.

REALIGNING SMILES, REIMAGINING FACES: THE ARTISTIC SCIENCE OF CLASS II MALOCCLUSION ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

Class II malocclusion, a common condition involving misalignment of the maxilla and mandible often requires orthodontic treatment to restore both function and aesthetics. Class II correctors, including functional devices, play a crucial role in reshaping the growth of the maxilla and mandible, improving bite alignment, and enhancing facial symmetry. Appliances such as headgear, Herbst devices, and Twin Block systems are effective in improving dental occlusion while reshaping the face for a more balanced profile. These devices also positively affect soft tissues, boosting self-confidence and creating a youthful appearance. However, success depends on factors like treatment timing, patient compliance, and appliance choice. Clinical evidence shows that when applied appropriately, Class II correctors lead to significant improvements in both function and aesthetics. Optimal results require individualized care, tailored to the patient's age, malocclusion severity, and appliance selection. Ultimately, Class II treatments blend art and science, reshaping both jaw and facial features to offer lasting, aesthetic, and functional benefits.

Management of a severe skeletal Class II hyperdivergent patient with asymmetric missing teeth with lingual appliances and mandibular osteotomy: A case report.

Orthognathic surgery cases are inherently challenging to treat with lingual appliances due to the complexities of orthodontic management and difficulties in achieving intermaxillary fixation during surgery. This challenge is further amplified in cases involving asymmetric space closure, such as those with a missing molar on one side and a premolar on the other, a scenario not yet documented in the literature. This case report presents the orthodontic-orthognathic management of an adult patient requiring space closure of asymmetric missing lower teeth. A 30-year-old female patient presented with a severe skeletal Class II patient with a retruded mandible, hyperdivergent facial pattern, excessive overjet and overbite, and asymmetric missing lower teeth. The patient was diagnosed with a Class II malocclusion and asymmetric missing mandibular posterior teeth on a skeletal hyperdivergent Class II relationship. The treatment involved orthodontic decompensation with fixed lingual appliances in combination with mandibular advancement osteotomy and genioplasty. Mini-screws were utilized for anchorage control during asymmetric space closure in the presurgical stage and entire lower arch distalization in the postsurgical stage. A significant facial esthetic and functional improvement was achieved posttreatment. The combination of mini-screws and lingual appliances may offer effective anchorage management in both presurgical and postsurgical orthodontic stages for optimal orthodontic-orthognathic treatment outcomes. This approach allows for precise tooth movement and control during space closure in the presence of challenging asymmetric missing tooth patterns.

The Impact of Diabetes on Abdominoplasty Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abdominoplasty is increasingly sought after by patients for aesthetic rejuvenation or functional improvement. However, no previous study has comprehensively evaluated the impact of diabetes on post-abdominoplasty complications. This systematic review aimed to investigate the impact of diabetes on outcomes following abdominoplasty. A comprehensive literature search was conducted systematically on MEDLINE Ovid, PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane CENTRAL databases from inception to January 2023. The primary outcomes of interest were overall complications. The secondary outcomes included major complications and minor complications. A meta-analysis was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines to examine the impact of diabetes on post-abdominoplasty complications. A total of fifteen studies involving 79724 patients, 5483 of whom had diabetes, met our inclusion criteria. Patients with diabetes were more likely to suffer from overall complications (OR = 1.63, 95% CI, 1.12-2.14; P < 0.05), major complications (OR = 1.44, 95% CI, 1.24-1.64; P < 0.05) and minor complications (OR = 1.84, 95% CI, 1.34-2.34; P < 0.05) than non-diabetic patients after abdominoplasty. Furthermore, patients with diabetes had a higher risk of wound-related complications (OR = 2.54, 95% CI, 1.80-3.27; P < 0.05) than non-diabetic patients after abdominoplasty. This study is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate how diabetes affects abdominoplasty outcomes. It finds that diabetes significantly increases the risk of overall, major, minor, and wound-related complications compared to non-diabetic patients. However, it does not elevate the risk of ischemic complications. Surgeons should inform patients about these risks, and future research should investigate how glycemic control might reduce these complications. 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 Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Toward Alleviating the Stigma of Hearing Aids: A Review.

Despite the significant advancements in hearing aid technology, their adoption rates remain low, with stigma continuing to be a major barrier for many. This review aims to assess the origins and current state of hearing aid stigma, as well as explore potential strategies for alleviating it. This review examines the societal perceptions, psychological impacts, and recent technological advancements that can influence hearing aid adoption and reduce stigma. Methods: A narrative-focused review of the literature from peer-reviewed journals and reputable sources was conducted, analyzing papers on hearing aid stigma, adoption rates, and technological solutions. The research works were categorized based on their focus on the drivers and alleviation strategies for the stigma of hearing aids. Results: This review identifies stigma as a complex, multifaceted issue driven primarily by ageism, disability perception, and the association of hearing aids with aging and incapability. Despite technological improvements, the studies surveyed listed stigma as a major factor in non-adoption. Technological advancements such as artificial intelligence in sound processing, multifunctional features, and innovative design have shown potential in reducing stigma and improving user experience. Conclusions: Alleviating the stigma of hearing aids requires a multi-pronged approach, combining improvements in technology with changes in societal perceptions. Multifunctional devices including both health and communications functions, advanced signal processing, and esthetic improvements can drive their adoption, but broader public health awareness and education are also essential to changing societal attitudes and fostering greater acceptance of hearing aids.

Sustained Aesthetic Improvement in Midface Micro-Autologous Fat Transplantation Auxiliary Support on Lower Eyelid Rejuvenation: A Comprehensive Evaluation.

To evaluate the deformities of tear troughs, and contours of the infraorbital-midfacial region, and to observe the clinical therapeutic effects of lower eyelid reconstruction combined with micro-autologous fat transplantation in orbital-midfacial rejuvenation. A total of 87 individuals seeking cosmetic improvement, aged 25 to 45years (mean age 36.7years), were selected for this study from March 2020 to March 2022. The patients presented with eye bags combined with tear troughs, with or without accompanying skin laxity, and exhibited varying degrees of midfacial flattening or concavity. After a thorough preoperative assessment, eligible candidates underwent lower eyelid reconstruction combined with midfacial micro-autologous fat transfer, while skin excision was performed for those with skin laxity. The effectiveness of the surgery was comprehensively evaluated using the tear trough rating scale (TTRS), the midface volume scale (MMVS), and the Patients' Aesthetic Improvement Scale. Additionally, a 3D scanner and postoperative complications were considered in the evaluation process. Follow-up at a average 24.3months showed sustained good results and high patient satisfaction. The TTRS score showed a significant decrease post-treatment and continued to be low even 18months post-operation. The MMVS responder rate remained high, staying above 70% at the 18months after the surgery. Additionally, the PAIS score demonstrated that all patients experienced significant improvement. 3D Scanner showed also volumetric changes in surgical area. There were no apparent complications among the patients, and all of them achieved satisfactory results. Treating aging manifestations in the orbital-midfacial region as a whole, alongside lower eyelid reconstruction, and correcting volume changes through fat grafting can achieve comprehensive aesthetic effects in orbital-midfacial rejuvenation. 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 .

Fat graft for facial contouring in patients with post-surgical and post- traumatic defects: A case series study

Background and objective: Facial deformities provide a considerable challenge for both the patient and the facial reconstructive surgeon. They can be caused by congenital, traumatic, and oncological ablative surgery. The aim of the study is to evaluate the reliability of autologous fat grafting in residual facial deformities. Methods: This is a case series study of 10 patients with secondary facial defects induced by trauma, parotidectomy and orthognathic surgery. The patients were more than18 yeas old age and of both sexes. The study was conducted at Sulaimani Teaching Hospital from May to December 2021. The defects were grafted with autologous fat grafts harvested from the abdomen and suprapubic region using two techniques, en-bloc and structural fat grafting (minimum 10 cc to maximum 35 cc). Result: Mean graft volume (20.8 cc) Revision was required for 10% of patients. Mean satisfaction score (8.3). Patient’s satisfaction score increased with graft volume p-value &lt;0.01. No major complications were reported. Conclusion: Autologous fat graft is a reliable and cost-effective method for correcting mild to moderate facial soft tissue and hard tissue asymmetry, resulting in a significant improvement in the patients' facial esthetics and psychology.

Efficacy of a 1064-nm Picosecond Laser for Treating Early-Stage Traumatic and Surgical Scars.

The role of fractional picosecond-domain lasers in scar remodeling is being increasingly recognized. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a fractional 1064-nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) picosecond laser for treating early-stage traumatic and surgical scars in an Asian population. Thirty-seven patients with 49 early-stage traumatic and surgical scar lesions were enrolled. Participants underwent three treatment sessions with a fractional 1064-nm Nd:YAG picosecond laser at 4-8-week intervals. Two non-involved dermatologists evaluated the treatment response using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). After treatment, the early-stage traumatic and surgical scars significantly improved. The treatment effects differed markedly according to the number of treatment sessions (F=219.71, P<0.001). The VSS scores were 5.56 ± 2.17 and 3.85 ± 2.02 in the postoperative period after one (P<0.001) and three (P<0.001) sessions, respectively, compared with the baseline VSS score (6.94 ± 1.85). After three treatment sessions, 69.39% of the scars improved based on the GAIS scores. This study was limited by the small number of participants involved and the lack of a control group. The fractionated 1064-nm Nd:YAG picosecond laser effectively treated early-stage traumatic and surgical scars in an Asian population. 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 .

Post-thyroidectomy scar: aesthetic improvement

Post-thyroidectomy scar: aesthetic improvement

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Single-group Studies Assessing the Role of Calcium Hydroxylapatite in Aesthetic Enhancements and Satisfaction.

Many studies assess aesthetic effectiveness of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), with single-group designs as the most frequently applied designs in practice. This study systematically reviewed CaHA's effectiveness for aesthetic purposes among these studies. A comprehensive search was conducted across 5 bibliographic databases. Single-group studies with at least 10 human adults were included. Summary measures of patients satisfaction and global aesthetic improvement scores were combined using the generalized linear mixed model. This systematic review adhered to the PRISMA reporting standards. Of 3131 records, 46 single-group studies, majority focused on facial areas (n = 32), were included for final qualitative analysis. A total number of 27 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Findings of the meta-analysis showed that 98% (95% confidence interval [CI], 91%-99%; I 2, 0.0%) of patients were satisfied with the injection results in the facial area and 90% (95% CI, 67%-97%, I 2, 35%) in other treated body areas. Also, patients reported 89% (95% CI, 76%-96%; I 2, 65%) improvement on the global aesthetic improvement scale in facial areas and 94% (95% CI, 75%-99%; I 2, 0.0%) in other treated regions. Similarly, investigators reported global aesthetic improvement in 92% of patients (95% CI, 33%-100%; I 2, 92%) in facial areas and 95% (95% CI, 1%-100%; I 2, 89%) in other treated areas. Our findings showed aesthetic improvements and satisfaction following CaHA injections in both facial and nonfacial areas. However, studies focusing on nonfacial regions are limited. We recommend more rigorously designed trials to better understand CaHA's clinical effects.

Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of concentrated growth factors for hair growth promotion in androgenetic alopecia patients: A retrospective single-centre, single-arm study.

This study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of injections of concentrated growth factors (CGF) for hair growth promotion in androgenetic alopecia (AGA) patients. A retrospective review of AGA patients treated with injections of CGF at our center from October 2021 to April 2023 was performed. A total of 3 injections were administered every 3-4 weeks apart, and evaluation were performed before the first injection and at 3 months, 6 months later. The outcomes were assessed by trichoscopy photomicrographs and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). At 3 months after the first injection, the hair density and hair growth ratio were significantly improved. Significant improvements were found in GAIS score by both patients and independent doctors and the hair growth promotion was sustained for 6 months after first treatment. According to this tiny single-arm trial, the use of CGF injection may help AGA by increasing terminal hair density and hair density. No severe topical or systemic adverse events occurred during the treatment.