Poly-L-lactic-acid (PLLA) is biocompatible, biodegradable injectable treatment used for the correction of shallow to deep contour deficiencies and other facial wrinkles. As we age, our facial skin, fat and bones begin to thin, resulting in a sunken or saggy appearance. Facial hollowing is also noticeable on patients who have lost weight.
When PLLA is injected under the skin, and triggers a cellular cascade of collagen repair and restoration stimulating your own skin to produce new collagen.
The restoration effects of the treatment are gradual and long lasting – up to 25 months.
This treatment is suitable for patients who want to improve overall skin tone and elasticity and restore volume in a gradual and natural manner. PLLA is not for you if you’re after instant results.
How is the treatment performed?
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Firstly, your skin is cleansed
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Prior to use, one or two vials PLLA is reconstituted with sterile water for injection to form a suspension
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A small injection of local anaesthetic is place onto the skin at the cannula insertion site
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The resulting reconstitution of approximately 8-9 mL per vial is placed under the skin via a cannula into multiple areas and tissue structures to address facial volume loss and laxity
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PLLA can also be injected directly onto the temple, angle of jaw and zygoma
How long does the treatment take?
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Usually around 45-90 mins depending on the area being treated
Does it hurt?
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Normally only a very mild discomfort - we can apply local anaesthetic
Potential side effects
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Swelling, bruising, erythema, and pain
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Some patients may experience nodules – but can be prevented by through massaging and following the Rule of Five
Recovery & Post care
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Sometime redness & bruising can occur
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The Rule of Five – patients must massage the area for 5 min, five times a day for 5 days to ensure even distribution of the product
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Normally you can go straight back to work
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Avoid products that contain alcohol, exfoliants and retinol
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Avoid direct sunlight and heat for at least 72 hours
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Avoid exercising for at least 24 hours
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Cleanse your face with a simple cleanser, moisturise and always apply 30+ sunscreen
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Avoid putting too many products on your skin for 72 hours
How many treatments do I need?
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The results are gradual becoming more visible after 4 weeks
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A minimum of 2 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart is the optimal regimen to gradually restore facial volume.
What do I need to do to prepare for PLLA treatments?
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Don’t smoke or drink alcohol for 7 days prior
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No anti-inflammatories – only Panadol if required
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Drink loads of water on the day of the treatment
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NO foundation on the day of the treatment - only wear sunscreen
Treatment areas
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Skin laxity – neck, décolleté, arm, abdomen, upper knees, hands
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Facial fat loss – temples, cheeks, jawline
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Body fat loss – buttock ‘hip dip’
Treatment Costs
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From $800