Fat Grafting the Male Face.

There are many developmental sexual dimorphisms of the human face, and thereby differences in aging based on sex. Sensitivity regarding the nature of the changes that are unique to the male face as well as understanding men's unique aesthetic goals will allow the skilled practitioner to tailor rejuvenating treatments accordingly. Fat grafting of the male face has not been extensively described but is an excellent tool for facial rejuvenation either as an adjunct or a stand-alone procedure. Each treatment area demands different techniques and special attention to avoid unintentional feminization.

Validation of a Midfacial Scale and Its Use in a Randomized, Evaluator-Blinded Study of CPM-HA-V.

BACKGROUND: Age-related loss of midfacial contour is frequently corrected using dermal fillers. A validated photonumeric scale is beneficial when evaluating post-treatment aesthetic improvement. OBJECTIVE: To present scale-development activities for the Merz Cheek Fullness Assessment Scale (MCFAS) and report pilot-study results of a hyaluronic-acid filler (Belotero Volume with Lidocaine; CPM-HA-V) to treat midfacial volume loss. METHODS: A 5-point photonumeric scale was developed to objectively assess midface volume loss. Rater reliability was evaluated using live assessments. The clinical relevance of a 1-point difference in severity grade was evaluated using photographic comparisons. Pilot-study participants, with moderate-to-severe volume loss on the MCFAS, were randomized 2:1 to treatment or untreated control. Effectiveness was evaluated using the MCFAS, and adverse events were recorded. RESULTS: The MCFAS demonstrated substantial intra- and interrater agreement among physicians (weighted kappa > 0.6). The mean absolute difference (95% confidence interval) in scale ratings was 1.12 (1.00, 1.24) for photographic pairs differing by one grade and was 0.55 (0.48, 0.63) for pairs of the same grade, suggesting a 1-point difference is clinically relevant. In the pilot study, significant  (P < 0.0001) differences were observed in MCFAS response rates between treatment and control. No safety concerns were identified. CONCLUSION: The MCFAS is a validated, reliable, and clinically relevant photonumeric scale for rating midfacial volume loss in males and females of various ages and skin types. In a pilot study, CPM-HA-V was found to be safe and tolerable, and the MCFAS was able to detect clinically meaningful post-treatment changes. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(1):     doi:10.36849/JDD.7981.

Ultrasound Therapy for the Skin.

Ultrasound energy is delivered to the dermal and subdermal tissue to induce thermal injury, leading to collagen remodeling and resulting in lifting and tightening of the skin. Ulthera and Sofwave are two Food and Drug Administration-approved systems that have demonstrated clinically significant results in providing eyebrow, submental, and neck lift and minimizing facial fine lines and wrinkles. Patient selection and management of expectations are important components to a successful treatment process. Both devices boast high patient satisfaction rates, minimal recovery time, and excellent safety profile. Ultrasound technology is an effective, nonsurgical option for facial rejuvenation.

Injectable Treatments and Nonsurgical Aspects of Gender Affirmation.

Injectable treatments are valuable tools to be considered in those seeking facial gender-affirming therapies. As stand-alone procedures, they are unlikely to meet expectations, particularly in those seeking facial feminization. However, injectables can be useful for those seeking to transition into another gender role, who are not ready for more permanent surgical treatment. They are also useful to help fine-tune features to one's satisfaction. Transgender people in the United States are more likely than the general population to be impoverished, and thus the cost of injectables may be a more salient concern.

Hyaluronic Acid Basics and Rheology.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the most common dermal filler in use. It improves wrinkles and volume loss not only by filling and volumizing but also by hydrating the injected area with its water affinity. It is a naturally occurring component of skin, and there is a negligible risk of immunologic or allergic reaction with injection. It is rapidly degraded by the injection of hyaluronidase, thus creating an ideal injectable material that is low risk and reversible. Its duration of effect may be longer than expected based on bioavailability of the HA product due to collagen synthesis or fibroblast stimulation.

Hyaluronic Acid Basics and Rheology.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the most common dermal filler in use. It improves wrinkles and volume loss not only by filling and volumizing but also by hydrating the injected area with its water affinity. It is a naturally occurring component of skin, and there is a negligible risk of immunologic or allergic reaction with injection. It is rapidly degraded by the injection of hyaluronidase, thus creating an ideal injectable material that is low risk and reversible. Its duration of effect may be longer than expected based on bioavailability of the HA product due to collagen synthesis or fibroblast stimulation.

Radiofrequency Rejuvenation of the "Tweener" Patient: Under, Over, or Through the Skin.

The demand for noninvasive facial rejuvenation continues to increase as younger, well-informed patients enter the aesthetic market. We refer to a subset of these patients as "tweeners," those who present with early signs of neck and facial aging, but who have not yet developed changes significant enough to warrant a traditional excisional surgery approach. Many of these patients are in search of a minimally invasive intervention, a bridge in between observation and surgery. The authors describe their experience with radiofrequency (RF) technology as an in-office tool to address the aging face in a select patient population. This review also attempts to comprehensively search the existing body of literature to describe the RF technologies and devices available for facial rejuvenation. The efficacy and safety profiles of the devices are discussed, and the devices are categorized by their method of RF delivery-over (contact), through (microneedle), and under (percutaneous) the skin.

The Influence of Photo Editing Applications on Patients Seeking Facial Plastic Surgery Services.

BACKGROUND: The utilization of the smartphone and social media have introduced paradigm shifts to cosmetic surgery. Much has been studied regarding social media and its influences in plastic surgery; however, little is known about facial editing applications and how these relate to plastic surgery practices. OBJECTIVES: The authors sought to discover if face-editing applications influence patients' pursuit of plastic surgery, who utilizes these applications, and why. METHODS: An anonymous survey was administered between September and December 2019, including questions about demographics, familiarity, and utilization of face-editing applications, motivations in utilization and influences towards pursuing cosmetic procedures, and attitudes towards applications. RESULTS: Seventy patients completed the survey and 32.9% admitted to utilizing face-editing applications. Patients utilizing applications were significantly younger (36.9 years) than those who did not (54 years [P < 0.001]). Among those familiar with applications, women were significantly more likely than men to utilize them (100% vs 78.6%, respectively [P = 0.047]). Social media was the most common influence for utilizing apps (87%). The majority confirmed that these applications played a role in pursuing cosmetic procedures (56.5%). Most patients did not regret their utilization of these applications (87%). CONCLUSIONS: Face-editing applications serve a role regarding patient decision-making to pursue cosmetic surgery. Several motivators exist for application utilization, the largest of which is social media. Younger females are the most likely demographic to utilize applications and generally do not express regret in doing so. Plastic surgeons would benefit by understanding patient motivations and expectations created by utilizing these applications.

The Impact of Dermal Fillers on Perceived Personality Traits and Attractiveness.

BACKGROUND: Dermal fillers are increasingly popular for facial rejuvenation and enhancement, including effacement of nasolabial folds (NLFs) and marionette lines and lip augmentation. This study aimed to evaluate casual observer perception of physical and interpersonal traits of subjects who receive filler treatment. METHODS: An anonymous survey of 8 before/after treatment photographical sets was administered in Likert scale format (1-7) using online crowdsourcing. Three sets of photographs were before/after NLF/ marionette line treatment, three of lip augmentation, and two internal controls. Respondents were surveyed on personal demographics, as well as perceptions of subject photographs across nine domains (facial symmetry, confidence, likeability, youthfulness, trustworthiness, attractiveness, intelligence, approachability, happiness). RESULTS: In total, 260 respondents completed the survey. The majority were male (63.1%), Caucasian (58.1%), 18-34 years old (58.1%), and college graduates (66.2%). Respondents rated photographs with line filler treatment and lip filler treatment as significantly improved compared to the pre-treatment photographs across all nine trait domains [p < 0.001, for all]. No differences were found between the control photosets [p > 0.05, for all]. Middle-aged respondents (35-55 years) were more likely to perceive treated filler photographs as more youthful than younger respondents (18-34 years) [p < 0.006] Additionally, respondents with lower educational attainment (high-school graduate or less) were more likely to perceive treated patients as less intelligent compared to higher-educated respondents (college/postgraduates) [p < 0.05, for both]. CONCLUSION: The use of dermal fillers for treatment of NLF/marionette lines and lip augmentation have significant associations with the perception of improved attractiveness and several personality traits. Additionally, casual observer demographic subgroups may influence perceptions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Nasal Bone Fractures: Differences Amongst Sub-Specialty Consultants.

BACKGROUND: Nasal fractures constitute the largest proportion of facial trauma each year, however, there is no consensus management. In this study, we investingated the role of the consultant and the functional and aesthetic outcomes of procedures performed to address nasal bone fractures. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of patients who sustained nasal bone fractures was conducted from 8/1/14 through 1/23/18. Categorical variables were analyzed using chi-squared testing and Fisher's exact test, where appropriate, while continuous variables were compared using Mann-Whitney U testing. RESULTS: During the study period, 136 patients met inclusion criteria for full analysis. The mean age of this cohort was 47.6 ± 20.2 years with the majority identifying as African-American (53.7%) and male (67.2%). Otolaryngologists were significantly more likely to assess pre-operative nasal obstruction (100%) compared to plastic surgeons (24.1%) (P < .001). Otolaryngology elected operative management (53.3%) at a significantly higher rate than plastic surgery (24.1%) (P = .005). Additionally, otolaryngology was significantly more likely to manage patients in an outpatient setting (91.2%), whereas plastic surgery more commonly performed inpatient management (57.1%) (P = .006). Plastic surgery averaged a significantly shorter amount of time from presentation to operative management (7.3 ± 10.7 days) compared to otolaryngology (20 ± 27.7) (P = .019). Consulting service was not associated with a need for revision surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Consultants across subspecialties differ in the management of nasal bone trauma. A more standardized approach is warranted by all individuals involved in the care of maxillofacial trauma patients.

Temporal Augmentation: A Systematic Review.

Clinicians employ various modalities in order to achieve temporal augmentation; however, no literature comprehensively describes these methods or provides perspective on available options. Understanding the available methodologies for cosmetic temporal augmentation allows for improved patient satisfaction with limited risk of complications. To synthesize the available literature on cosmetic temporal augmentation, including all available methodologies, patient satisfaction data, and complication rates, as well as to identify gaps in the available literature to encourage further research. A literature search was performed using the databases PubMed, Ovid Medline, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Using the key terms "temporal" or "temple" and "augmentation" or "rejuvenation," all article formats presenting primary literature data involving cosmetic temporal augmentation were included. Articles not presenting patient data or not discussing cosmetic indications were eliminated. A total of 12 articles were deemed appropriate for analysis. Of the 12 articles included, 6 (50%) evaluated filler techniques, 3 discussed fat grafting (25%), and 3 reviewed solid implant (25%) techniques. Eight (67%) of these were retrospective reviews, with the remaining being prospective trials (33%). All studies found high patient satisfaction rates and a small number of complications with their respective methodology. Several methods are employed for cosmetic temporal augmentation, including various types of injectable fillers, solid implants, and fat grafting, with all reporting successful satisfaction and complication outcomes. Further research is necessary to properly compare these modalities. Clinician discretion should guide procedural choice until future well-controlled studies are able to provide standardized outcomes.

Microneedling Options for Skin Rejuvenation, Including Non-temperature-controlled Fractional Microneedle Radiofrequency Treatments.

The use of microneedling with or without radiofrequency continues to expand in aesthetics. There are now many different devices available that have multiple indications, unique protocols, and low side effect profiles.

Tranexamic Acid in Aesthetic Facial Plastic Surgery: A Systematic Review of Evidence, Applications, and Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic that has become widely used in aesthetic facial plastic surgery, although its efficacy has not been well investigated. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the existing evidence for use of TXA in aesthetic facial plastic surgery, highlighting routes of administration, dosing, surgical applications, and clinical outcomes. METHODS: Systematic review of primary literature evaluating TXA in aesthetic facial plastic surgery. RESULTS: Eleven studies met inclusion criteria: 8 prospective randomized controlled trials, 2 retrospective case series/cohort studies, and 1 clinical opinion. Six studies evaluated TXA in rhinoplasty, 4 in rhytidectomy, and 1 in blepharoplasty. Significant reductions in intraoperative blood loss were found in 5 rhinoplasty studies. Three rhinoplasty and 2 rhytidectomy studies found significantly reduced postoperative edema and ecchymosis. One rhinoplasty and 1 rhytidectomy study reported reduced operative time and time to achieve hemostasis. One rhytidectomy study reported reduced postoperative drain output and faster time to drain removal. No studies reported an adverse outcome directly related to TXA. CONCLUSIONS: Existing literature investigating TXA in aesthetic facial plastic surgery is sparse with varying levels of evidence and heterogeneous data. Literature suggests systemic TXA reduces intraoperative blood loss during rhinoplasty, although the clinical significance of this blood loss reduction is unclear. TXA may also reduce postoperative edema and/or ecchymosis in rhytidectomy and rhinoplasty, although the lack of validated grading scales yields insufficient evidence to support this claim. Topical and subcutaneously injected TXA are emerging administration routes in rhytidectomy, with evidence suggesting TXA mixed with tumescent may reduce postoperative drain output, thereby expediting drain removal.

Factors Important in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship Program Selection.

Facial plastic and reconstructive surgery (FPRS) training programs offer exceptional exposure to the most current techniques in the field. However, applicants have many factors to weigh when ranking programs. Therefore, it is important to examine the factors that applicants believe to be the most critical when choosing an FPRS fellowship. This is an anonymous online survey of FPRS fellows between the years 2018 and 2020 (total 147). Respondents were asked to rate importance of program factors on a Likert scale (1-5). Of 147 applicants, 63 (43%) responded. Applicants found the type of practice, academic or private, equally important, with score averages of 3.02 and 3.25, respectively. The two most important program factors to applicants were exposure to the business of medicine/practice management (3.94) and location (3.4). The two most important areas of surgical exposure include rhinoplasty (4.54) and aging face (4.44). Of 63 applicants, 41 (65%) were interested in private practice, with 51% seeking a facial plastics/plastic reconstructive surgery group setting versus solo practice, general otolaryngology group, or dermatology group practice. Of 61 applicants, 48 (76%) wanted a mix of cosmetic/reconstructive surgery in their first 5 years of practice. Finally, applicants were not interested (average: 1.94) in keeping general otolaryngology as part of their practice. Applicants want strong exposure to the business of medicine, rhinoplasty, aging face, all while in their preferred location. Additionally, the majority of applicants seek employment in a plastic surgery focused group practice, with the sole focus being the breadth of FPRS.

Percutaneous Radiofrequency Technologies for the Lower Face and Neck.

The aging neck is one of the most common motivations for patients to seek aesthetic rejuvenation. Increasingly, patients are desiring less invasive aesthetic treatments with less morbidity and downtime. Percutaneous radiofrequency technologies have been recently introduced for cervical rejuvenation. These technologies safely and effectively apply energy directly into the subdermal space, targeting the upper dermal collagen network, the deeper fascial layer, and the fibrofatty septum that anchors the dermis to the deep fascia. Significant skin tightening and fat reduction have been reported with these technologies, beyond that which is currently achievable with other minimally invasive energy-based technologies.

Safety and Efficacy of Bilateral Submental Cryolipolysis With Quantified 3-Dimensional Imaging of Fat Reduction and Skin Tightening.

IMPORTANCE: Cryolipolysis is a popular, well-tolerated nonsurgical procedure that uses controlled cooling to selectively destroy fat cells. Central submental cryolipolysis has been reported to be safe and effective, but many patients would benefit from extending this treatment over the entire submental region. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the safety and efficacy of cryolipolysis for reduction of lateral and central submental fat. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: The study population consisted of 14 participants who were treated from January 22 to June 30, 2016, in the lateral and central submental area to reduce unwanted subcutaneous fat. A small-volume cup applicator was used to administer 2 cryolipolysis treatments, delivered in 45-minute treatment cycles in 2 sessions. For the first treatment session, all participants received bilateral treatments with approximately 20% overlap of the treatment area. At the 6-week follow-up visit, participants were reassessed to determine whether they would benefit from a second treatment and to determine the number of cycles needed to achieve the optimal aesthetic result, and then they were treated a second time. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Participant surveys assessed tolerability and treatment satisfaction at 12 weeks following the second treatment. Clinicians monitored adverse events to assess safety. Caliper measurements were recorded to assess fat thickness reduction. Treatment efficacy was objectively evaluated using 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional imaging. RESULTS: Among the 14 participants (12 women and 2 men; mean [SD] age, 50.5 [10.4] years), the adverse effects of the procedure were typically mild and included numbness and tingling, which resolved without intervention by the final 12-week follow-up visit. An independent review of digital photographs revealed an 81.0% (95% CI, 65.9%-91.4%; P = .02) correct identification rate (34 of 42 images) of the pretreatment and posttreatment images. Caliper measurements demonstrated a mean (SD) fat layer reduction of 2.3 (0.8) mm (range, 0.7-3.5 mm). Three-dimensional imaging revealed a mean (SD) reduction in fat volume of 4.82 (11.42) cm3 (from a reduction of 32.69 cm3 to an increase of 13.85 cm3), in skin surface area of 1.29 (1.42) cm2 (from a reduction of 3.18 cm2 to an increase of 0.99 cm2), and in fat thickness of 3.77 (3.59) mm (from of reduction of 13.10 mm to an increase of 0.47 mm). Results of participant surveys indicated that 13 participants (93%) were satisfied with the cryolipolysis treatment. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Although safe and efficacious central submental cryolipolysis has been reported, this is the first clinical study of cryolipolysis for treatment of the entire submental area using overlapping bilateral treatments and a shorter treatment duration. The study demonstrates that bilateral submental cryolipolysis is well tolerated and produces visible and significant fat layer reduction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.