New Wrinkle Fighters

Posting Date: 10/23/2003

Hydroxyapatite with a methylcellulose vehicle

For patients who want longer-lasting results than the collagen fillers but are not ready to consider a permanent solution, a new filler known as hydroxyapatite with a methylcellulose vehicle is currently FDA approved for other purposes and can be used off-label as an injectable filler. This new breed of synthetic compounds contains beads of calcium hydroxyapatite, which is a substance used to replace missing bone.

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Dr. Carruthers said, ?There are some concerns that dermatologists have with the product that patients should be aware of. For instance, the duration of this filler has not been demonstrated yet and there is concern that the beads could clump together if it is not injected properly.?

Since hydroxyapatite is radio opaque, there is the possibility that the filler could interfere with future dental x-rays.

Polymethylmethacrylate

For patients looking for a more permanent solution to their lines and wrinkles, one of the new permanent injectables that is awaiting FDA approval in the United States is polymethylmethacrylate. Made from a mixture of micronized plastic spheres and bovine collagen, polymethylmethacrylate has been shown to work well for moderate to deep wrinkles and scars but is not recommended for lips.

When polymethylmethacrylate is injected into the skin, the collagen works by holding the synthetic spheres in place until it dissipates after injection ? leaving the spheres behind to prop up the wrinkles. The spheres, which are not absorbed by the body, act to stimulate the body?s own production of collagen, which then forms around the spheres.

?Since the results of polymethylmethacrylate are permanent, it?s extremely important that patients consult a dermatologist or dermatologic surgeon skilled in the procedure once it is approved for use in the states,? cautioned Dr. Carruthers. ?While there is little inflammation upon injection of polymethylmethacrylate compared to some of the other fillers, there are some side effects such as the possible development of granulomas, or permanent bumps under the skin, and long-term lumpiness in the lips.?