A Dynamic, High-Stretch Resilient Hyaluronic Acid Filler Improves Fine Lines of the Cheek and Patient-Reported Outcomes

BACKGROUND: Radial cheek lines develop over time due to ultraviolet exposure, dynamic expression, loss of skin elasticity, and superficial fat due to aging. With the aging population and increasing social awareness, there is a surge in demand for treatment. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate efficacy of a novel, less-rigidly crosslinked, 15 mg/mL resilient, high-stretch hyaluronic acid filler for improvement of radial cheek lines. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Outcomes were assessed using photographs, the Allergan Fine Lines Scale, and Facial Appearance, Health Related Quality of Life and Adverse Effects - Questionnaire score Appraisal of Lines. Two treatments were performed, 4 to 6 weeks apart. Measurements were taken at baseline, at each follow-up treatment, and 4 weeks after the last treatment. RESULTS: Twenty subjects were enrolled. Allergan Fine Lines Scales showed significant improvement between baseline and 4 weeks after the first visit (3.4 ± 0.2, 3.2 ± 0.2, p = .049) and between baseline and 8 weeks after the first visit (3.4 ± 0.2 vs 2.35 ± 0.1, p < .01). Facial Appearance, Health Related Quality of Life and Adverse Effects - Questionnaire scores showed a significant improvement between the baseline and 4 weeks after the first visit (45.9 ± 3 vs 67.4 ± 4.2, p = .0004) and between baseline and 8 weeks after the first visit (45.9 ± 3 vs 62 ± 4.0, p = .0034). CONCLUSION: Treatment with a resilient hyaluronic acid seems to be effective in the appearance of fine lines of the cheek. This could potentially enhance patient self-assurance and improve quality of life by reducing the appearance of radial cheek lines and improve overall skin quality.