What is Polylactic Acid (PLA/PLLA)?
Polylactic acid is an injectable biostimulant product. Unlike hyaluronic acid, which “fills” immediately, PLA gradually stimulates the skin’s natural collagen production. It acts as a volume reconstructor and skin firmer.
The results appear gradually over several weeks and are long-lasting (often 18 to 24 months).
Areas of Use
- Face: Cheeks, temples, oval of the face, furrows.
- Body: Arms, buttocks, thighs (for firming and improvement of skin quality).
- Not for lips or very thin areas.
How is it Injected?
- Polylactic acid comes in powder form and must be reconstituted with sterile water before injection.
- Injections are made deep, generally with a cannula or fine needle.
- Session duration: approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
- Several sessions are generally necessary (2–3 sessions spaced one month apart).
Effects
- Restores volume to the face or hollow areas.
- Improves skin firmness and elasticity.
- “Gentle lifting” effect thanks to collagen stimulation.
- Very natural and progressive results.
First changes are seen after 4 to 6 weeks, with maximum effect after several months.
Post-operative Care
- Redness, swelling, or small bruises may occur; they disappear within a few days.
- No social downtime necessary.
- Recommended massage: 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days to distribute the product evenly.
- Avoid intense sport, sauna/steam room, sun, or strong heat for the next 24–48 hours.
Risks and Side Effects
- Redness, swelling, small bruises (frequent but transient).
- Rare: formation of small nodules under the skin (often linked to poor massage).
- Exceptional inflammatory reactions.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Active autoimmune diseases.
- Known allergy to any of the components.
- Current skin infection in the area to be treated.
- Patients on certain immunosuppressive treatments.
In summary: PLA/PLLA is a biostimulating injection that restores volume and firms the skin by stimulating your own collagen. The results appear gradually, are long-lasting, and the treatment remains natural.