Calcium Hydroxyapatite and PLLA in Hertfordshire
the key differences in aesthetics
(CaHA) and (PLLA) are both dermal fillers used in aesthetics, but they have different compositions, and mechanisms of action.
Composition
Calcium Hydroxyapatite (CaHA):
– Made of microspheres of calcium hydroxylapatite, a substance similar to minerals found in bones and teeth.
– Suspended in a gel carrier made of water, glycerin, and carboxymethylcellulose.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA):
– A synthetic, biodegradable polymer derived from lactic acid.
– Comes as a powder that is reconstituted with sterile water before injection.
Mechanism of Action
CaHa:
– Provides immediate volume and structural support upon injection.
– The gel carrier provides initial volume while the CaHA microspheres stimulate collagen production over time.
– Results can last up to 12-18 months.
PLLA:
– Stimulates the body’s collagen production rather than providing immediate volume.
– Gradually replaces the PLLA particles with collagen, leading to a gradual increase in volume and skin thickness.
– Results develop over a few months and can last up to 2 years.
Applications
CaHa:
– Used for deeper injections to enhance volume in areas such as cheeks, jawline, and hands.
– Suitable for moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds.
– Provides a lifting and contouring effect.
PLLA:
– Used primarily for facial volume loss and correction of shallow to deep nasolabial folds, usually used as an alternative to tear trough filler.
– Ideal for people with generalized facial volume loss due to aging or conditions like lipoatrophy.
– Not typically used for precise contouring but for overall volume restoration.
Injection Technique
CaHA:
– Often injected with a cannula into deeper dermal layers.
– Requires careful placement to avoid visible lumps or granulomas.
PLLA:
– Injected usually into the deeper dermis or subcutaneous layer.
– Requires a series of treatments (usually 2-4 sessions) spaced several weeks apart.
– Must be properly diluted and injected using a specific technique to avoid complications like nodules.
Side Effects
CaHA:
– Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and redness at the injection site.
– Rarely, it can cause granulomas if not properly injected.
PLLA:
– Similar common side effects as CaHA.
– Has a slightly higher risk of nodule formation if not properly diluted or injected.
CaHA and PLLA are both very effective for facial rejuvenation but serve different purposes and are used in different ways.
CaHA is best for immediate volume and contouring, and collagen stimulation over time, while PLLA is suited for gradual, overall volumisation and collagen stimulation.
