Non-aesthetic indications for periocular hyaluronic acid filler treatment: a review

Fat or fillers: The dilemma in eyelid surgery

The aging of the periocular region has always aroused great interest. A fresh, young, and attractive sight determined an ever-greater attention to surgical and non-surgical techniques to obtain this result. In particular, the change in the concept of a young look, considered then "full", led to the increasing use of surgical (fat grafting) or medical (hyaluronic acid) filling techniques. Eyelid rejuvenation became increasingly popular in the field of cosmetic treatments, with a focus on achieving a youthful and refreshed appearance. Among the various techniques available, the choice between using fat grafting or fillers presented a clinical dilemma. In particular, what surgery considered of fundamental importance was a long-lasting result over time. On the other hand, aesthetic medicine considered it fundamental not to have to resort to invasive treatments. But what was the reality? Was there one path better than the other, and above all, was there a better path for patients? The minireview aims to explore the physiopathology, diagnosis, treatment options, prognosis, and future studies regarding this dilemma. We analyzed the literature produced in the last 20 years comparing the two techniques. Current literature reveals advancements in biomaterials, stem cell research and tissue engineering held promise for further enhancing the field of eyelid rejuvenation. The choice between fat grafting and fillers in eyelid cosmetic treatments presented a clinical dilemma. Understanding physiopathology, accurately diagnosing eyelid aging, exploring treatment options, assessing prognosis, and conducting future studies were essential for providing optimal care to patients seeking eyelid rejuvenation.

Performance assessment of an injectable hyaluronic acid/polylactic acid complex hydrogel with enhanced biological properties as a dermal filler

Injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel plays an important role in dermal filling. However, conventional HA dermal fillers mostly lack bio-functional diversity and frequently cause adverse reactions because of the chemical stiffness of highly modified degree and crosslinker residues. In this study, polylactic acid (PLA) was embedded into HA hydrogel as a bioactive substance and 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether was used as a crosslinker to prepare the HA/PLA composite hydrogel with enhanced biocompatibility and biological performance. We aimed to investigate the properties of HA/PLA composite hydrogels as dermal fillers by assessing the rheological properties, surface microstructure, enzymolysis stability, swelling ratio, degradation rate, cytotoxicity, and anti-wrinkle effect on photo-aged skin. The results showed that the stability and stiffness of the composite hydrogel decreased with an increasing amount of PLA, while the in vivo safety of the HA/PLA hydrogel was enhanced, showing no adverse reactions such as edema, redness, or swelling. Moreover, the composite hydrogel with 2 wt% PLA exhibited excellent anti-wrinkle effects, showing the highest collagen production. Thus, the PLA-embedded HA composite hydrogel showed potential as a dermal filler with high safety, easy injectability, and excellent anti-wrinkle effects.

Response of 21 Hyaluronic Acid Fillers to Recombinant Human Hyaluronidase

Background

One benefit of hyaluronic acid fillers is the ability to dissolve them using hyaluronidase. With the increasing number of fillers entering the market, it is crucial to understand each of these fillers' responsiveness to hyaluronidase.

Methods

Twenty-one hyaluronic acid fillers of 0.2 mL aliquots each were placed on slides. Twenty units of recombinant human hyaluronidase were injected into the aliquots every 30 minutes for a total of 120 units recombinant human hyaluronidase injected over 3 hours. With each injection, videos and photographs were taken from bird's eye and lateral views to measure aliquot height. Stirring videos were graded by three oculoplastic surgeons, and these grades were used to categorize each filler's responsiveness.

Results

Restylane Lyft, Restylane-L/Eyelight, and Resilient Hyaluronic Acid (RHA) 1/Redensity were the least resistant. The moderately resistant group comprised of Restylane Silk, Juvéderm Volbella, Revanesse Versa/Lips, and Belotero Balance on the less resistant side to Juvéderm Vollure, RHA 2, Restylane Contour, Juvéderm Ultra, Restylane Refyne, Belotero Intense, Restylane Kysse, RHA 3, Juvéderm Ultra Plus, and Restylane Defyne on the more resistant side. The most resistant were RHA 4, Juvéderm Voluma, Belotero Volume, and Juvéderm Volux. The most resistant fillers required 120 units of hyaluronidase per 0.2 mL filler to dissolve.

Conclusions

With the increasing popularity of fillers comes the increasing need to dissolve them for both ischemic and nonischemic complications. The majority of hyaluronic acid fillers available on the market are very resistant to hyaluronidase, which must be considered when determining the amount of hyaluronidase to dissolve a particular filler.

Modern blepharoplasty: From bench to bedside

The demand for procedures aiming to rejuvenate the upper third part of the face and the periocular region has increased in the past several years. Blepharoplasty is one of the most frequently performed procedures worldwide to date. Surgery is currently the first choice in order to achieve permanent and effective results; however, it is burdened by potential surgical complications feared by patients. There is an increasing trend in individuals to request less invasive, non-surgical, effective, and safe procedures for eyelid treatment. The aim of this minireview is to present a brief overview of non-surgical blepharoplasty techniques that have been reported in the literature in the past 10 years. Numerous modern techniques that provide a rejuvenation of the entire area have been described. Numerous less invasive methods have been proposed in the current literature and in modern-day routine clinical settings. Dermal fillers are a commonly chosen option for providing enhanced aesthetic results, especially considering that volume loss can be one of the main underlying causes of facial and periorbital aging. Deoxycholic acid use may be considered when the problem is represented by periorbital excess fat deposits. The simultaneous excess and loss of elasticity of the skin can be assessed with techniques such as lasers and plasma exeresis. Furthermore, techniques such as platelet-rich plasma injections and the insertion of twisted polydioxanone threads are emerging as viable methods to rejuvenate the periorbital region.

Oculofacial Prosthetic Rehabilitation Complemented With Temporary Fillers and Neurotoxin

ABSTRACT

Surgical treatment of head and neck cancer causes severe tissue loss, therefore, deformities and psychosocial consequences. In cases involving orbit exenteration, satisfactory reconstruction can only be achieved with prosthetic replacement, despite successful reconstructive plastic surgery. Extraoral implants, 3D scanning, and prototyping technologies have contributed to increase satisfactory aesthetic results of oculofacial prosthesis. However, to achieve prosthetic rehabilitation refinement, patients' biological tissues have been treated with injectable cosmetic adjuncts methods as complements to results. This study aimed to describe the use of botulinum toxin type A, hyaluronic acid, and calcium hydroxyapatite previously to oculofacial prostheses manufacturing, in 5 oncologic patients of a rehabilitation unit. Outcomes produced by additional cosmetic methods on tissues, prostheses planning, and overall facial rehabilitation were observed and registered by photographs. Botulinum toxin type A, hyaluronic acid, and calcium hydroxyapatite has shown to be useful in improving asymmetries, volumizing surgical depressions and dissembling atrophic scars. Presenting an additional resource to improve overall results, enabling the manufacturing of smaller, thinner, and better-fitting oculofacial prostheses. Limitations as chronic infection and necrosis episodes, related to filler injection into previously irradiated sites, were described. The temporary effect of the materials used generates a need for reapplications but increases the safety of such procedures and enables patients' cancer treatment follow-up.

Anophthalmic Socket Syndrome: Prevalence, Impact and Management Strategies

Anophthalmic socket syndrome determines functional deficits and facial deformities, and may lead to poor psychological outcomes. This review aims to comprehensively evaluate the features of the syndrome, based on literature review and authors’ clinical and surgical experience. An electronic database (PubMed,MEDLINE and Google Scholar) search of all articles written in English and non-English language with abstract translated to English on anophthalmic socket syndrome was performed. Data reviewed included demographics, presentations, investigations, management, complications and outcomes. Different types of orbital implants were evaluated; the management of implant exposure was examined; different orbital volume enhancement procedures such as secondary implantation, subperiosteal implants and the use of fillers in anophthalmic patients were described; the problems related to socket contraction were outlined; the treatment options for chronic anophthalmic socket pain and phantom eye syndrome were assessed; the most recent advances in the management of congenital anophthalmia were described. Current clinical evidence does not support a specific orbital implant; late exposure of porous implants may be due to pegging, which currently is seldom used; filler absorption in the orbit appears to be faster than in the dermis, and repeated treatments could be a potential source of inflammation; socket contraction results in significant functional and psychological disability, and management is challenging. Patients affected by anophthalmic socket pain and phantom eye syndrome need specific counseling. It is auspicable to use a standardized protocol to treat children affected by clinical congenital anophthalmia; dermis fat graft is a suitable option in these patients as it helps continued socket expansion. Dermis fat graft can also address the volume deficit in case of explantation of exposed implants and in contracted sockets in both children and adults. Appropriate clinical care is essential, as adequate prosthesis wearing improves the quality of life of anophthalmic patients.

Eyelid Malposition after Blepharoplasty: An Ounce of Prevention

Upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty are common procedures performed to provide a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. However, this seemingly straightforward procedure may result in lid malpositions, frustrating the patient and surgeon alike, which ultimately require further treatment. We review preoperative assessment pearls to avoid these lid malpositions, as well as options for treating any postoperative complications related to lid position. Many of the techniques discussed in this article, in addition to many other oculoplastic procedures, are available to view in Dr. Richard C. Allen's operative video library at: http://webeye.ophth.uiowa.edu/eyeforum/video/plastics/ .

Eyelid and Periorbital Dermal Fillers: Products, Techniques, and Outcomes

A retrospective observational case study and a literature review were conducted to evaluate how anatomic findings, especially those related to the periorbital zone, serve as a guiding compass for injectable implants. Treatment techniques and product selection will be discussed for patients with negative vector, shallow orbit, and deep set eyes. Versatility of injectables will be demonstrated on patients with peanut face, iatrogenically altered anatomy (after surgery), and trauma.

The Treatment of Facial Asymmetry with Botulinum Toxin: Current Concepts, Guidelines, and Future Trends

This article will describe facial asymmetry secondary to facial nerve paralysis (FNP), and review current concepts, guidelines, and future trends. Despite the increasing use of botulinum toxin (BoNTA) in treating FNP, ideal dosage, timing, and additional therapies are not unequivocally established. Facial asymmetry significantly impacts quality of life (QOL) by strongly affecting self-perception and social interactions; injectables may mediate great clinical improvement. This article provides practical guidelines for the use of BoNTA and provides schemes for accurate assessment and documentation. A systematic, stepwise approach is recommended with methodical assessment, meticulous placement, conservative dosage, and careful follow-up. Future trends include the potential use of newly developed toxins, muscle modification with fillers, improved imaging techniques, and targeted QOL studies. Hopefully, a growing number of aesthetic injectors may become technically proficient and join multidisciplinary teams for managing FNP.

Advances in facial nerve management in the head and neck cancer patient

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to summarize best practices in facial nerve management for patients with head and neck cancer. In addition, we provide a review of recent literature on novel innovations and techniques in facial reanimation surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS

Although recommended when tumor ablation surgery requires facial nerve sacrifice, facial reanimation procedures are not always performed. Concurrent dynamic facial reanimation with masseteric nerve transfers and cable graft repair can preserve native facial muscle function. Static suspension can provide facial support and immediate resting symmetry for patients. Eyelid weight and eye care should not be delayed, particularly in patients with trigeminal sensory deficits. Choice of neural source to innervate a gracilis-free muscle transfer for smile reanimation remains controversial; however, new techniques, such as dual innervation and multivector muscle transfer, may improve aesthetic and functional outcomes.

SUMMARY

Management of the facial nerve in the setting of head and neck cancer presents unique challenges. When possible, simultaneous oncologic resection and facial reanimation is ideal given the open surgical field, newly dissected and electrically stimulatable facial nerve branches, as well as minimizing postoperative healing time to prevent postsurgical treatment delays. A coordinated approach to facial nerve management with a multidisciplinary surgical team may help provide optimal, comprehensive care.

Autologous dermis graft versus conchal cartilage graft for managing lower eyelid retraction: A comparative study

PURPOSE

Lower eyelid management is challenging. The conchal cartilage is often considered a spacer of choice for treating lower eyelid retraction. However, dermis graft has also recently been shown to be a viable spacer. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of dermis graft to that of conchal cartilage graft in this indication.

METHODS

A retrospective comparative study was conducted in patients who underwent lower eyelid lengthening with autologous dermis graft (group 1) or autologous conchal cartilage graft (group 2). The main outcome measure was the reduction in inferior scleral show (ISS) assessed by three independent masked surgeons. Secondary outcome measures was the assessment of lagophthalmos and corneal keratitis. Complications were also recorded.

RESULTS

Twenty-five eyelids of 23 patients were included: 11 and 14 eyelids, respectively in group 1 (dermis graft) and group 2 (conchal cartilage graft). Patient mean follow-up was 12.3 (±12.5) and 7.1 (±7.7) months, respectively. No statistical differences in postoperative ISS reduction, lagophthalmos and exposure keratitis was observed (p = 0.540, p = 0.946, p = 0.934, respectively). Three patients experienced a grade I Clavien-Dindo complication in group 1 and one patient experienced a grade II complication in group 2 (p = 0.540).

CONCLUSION

Autologous dermis grafts and conchal cartilage grafts provide favorable outcomes without major complications.

Periocular hyaluronic acid fillers: applications, implications, complications

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The use of dermal filler in the periocular area is increasing - both for functional and aesthetic indications. Hyaluronic acid fillers dominate the market; these treatments offer an alternative to some surgical procedures with the advantage of instant results, minimal healing time and low complication rates. However, success depends on judicious selection of patients, products and procedures to achieve favourable outcomes. This article reviews current understanding of the principal complications in the periocular area and their management.

RECENT FINDINGS

Hyaluronic acid is a ubiquitous, biodegradable, nonspecies-specific molecular substrate with limited potential for immunogenic reactions. However, in the periocular area, such products can migrate and last significantly longer than the expected filler lifespan. Contamination or subsequent immune stimulation can trigger delayed-onset inflammatory reactions. Though minor vascular occlusions are not uncommon, cases of blindness secondary to facial filler injections are thought to be rare. Timely enzymatic degradation with injectable hyaluronidase can be effective in the treatment of some such complications. But recent studies demonstrate lack of penetration through arterial walls and optic nerve sheath, casting doubt on the role of retrobulbar hyaluronidase in the management of vision loss because of embolism with hyaluronic acid filler.

SUMMARY

Hyaluronic acid fillers represent an emerging and important addition to the armamentarium of the oculofacial plastic surgeon with their use in the aesthetic field also expected continue to rise. The oculoplastic facial surgeon, armed with a thorough knowledge of facial anatomy, safe injection planes and the means of minimizing and treating complications is in the best position to lead clinically in the use of this well tolerated and effective treatment modality.

Eyelid Malposition Repair: A Review of the Literature and Current Techniques

Eyelid malposition is a challenging problem faced by surgeons. Given the delicate nature of the eyelid and its complex anatomy, eyelid repair requires both a comprehensive understanding of eyelid anatomy along with thorough presurgical planning and surgical execution. A wide range of options is available for eyelid reconstruction but the location and extent of the deformity often dictate the type of repair. This article is a review of commonly encountered forms of eyelid malposition. Relevant reconstructive techniques and current evidence-based methods of reconstruction are discussed in detail. Anatomical considerations, the nature of specific defects, pearls of preoperative evaluation, and the reconstructive options available to the facial plastic and oculoplastic surgeon are outlined. Topics discussed include ectropion, entropion, eyelid retraction, and blepharoptosis.

Hyaluronic Acid Gel Biodegradation After Intrapalpebral and Intraorbital Injection in Experimental Study

PURPOSE

Amid the increasing clinical application of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers in the ocular adnexa is a paucity of histological data concerning the fate of the injected material. The current study documents the in vivo biodegradation of HA deposited in the eyelid and orbit.

METHODS

The study included 22 chinchilla rabbits. The right upper eyelid of 12 rabbits received a single 0.2 ml Restylane (Galderma, Uppsala, Sweden) subcutaneous injection. In 10 different rabbits, the right orbit was injected with 1.0 ml Restylane SubQ (Galderma, Uppsala, Sweden) in the extraconal space. The rabbits in the eyelid group were euthanized at 2 weeks, 1 month, 2, 4, 6, and 9 months, while the rabbits in the orbit group were euthanized at 1 month, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months. Histological analysis was performed on the harvested samples.

RESULTS

In the eyelid, the HA assumed a sponge-like structure that diminished gradually over time. At 9 months, the injected HA partially persisted, mainly in the peripheral areas of injection. A similar histologic pattern was observed in the injected orbits, with slow changes persisting at the eighteenth month. In both cohorts, clear signs of collagen deposition and pseudocapsule formation were observed around HA droplets, with no signs inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

HA injected subcutaneously into the eyelid and orbit of rabbits undergoes slow and gradual biodegradation, with HA persisting to no less than 9 months in the eyelid and 18 months in orbit. Neocollagen synthesis and lack of hyaluronidase activity could explain the unexpectedly prolonged HA persistence.