Alexander Rivkin1. 1. Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Nonsurgical rhinoplasty involves the use of injectable fillers to improve the contours of the nose. It has become a widely practiced procedure since this author first popularized it in 2003. The use of permanent fillers in nonsurgical rhinoplasty has not been well documented, especially in this country. OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)-based filler for nonsurgical rhinoplasty. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Eligible subjects underwent up to three injection sessions with a commercially available PMMA product and were followed for 1 year. Efficacy was assessed according to evaluator grading of subjects and digital image analysis of standardized photographs. RESULTS: Nineteen subjects were enrolled and followed to conclusion. Average improvement in global score was more than one point observed on day 90 and lasting through 1 year. Eight of 10 subjects showed improvement according to digital image analysis at 1 year. Subject satisfaction was high throughout the study. Adverse events were minimal and well tolerated. CONCLUSION: Filler rhinoplasty using a PMMA-based injectable filler is safe and effective. This is the first study documenting the use of PMMA for this indication. Longer-term follow-up is needed to demonstrate persistence of improvement.
BACKGROUND: Nonsurgical rhinoplasty involves the use of injectable fillers to improve the contours of the nose. It has become a widely practiced procedure since this author first popularized it in 2003. The use of permanent fillers in nonsurgical rhinoplasty has not been well documented, especially in this country. OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)-based filler for nonsurgical rhinoplasty. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Eligible subjects underwent up to three injection sessions with a commercially available PMMA product and were followed for 1 year. Efficacy was assessed according to evaluator grading of subjects and digital image analysis of standardized photographs. RESULTS: Nineteen subjects were enrolled and followed to conclusion. Average improvement in global score was more than one point observed on day 90 and lasting through 1 year. Eight of 10 subjects showed improvement according to digital image analysis at 1 year. Subject satisfaction was high throughout the study. Adverse events were minimal and well tolerated. CONCLUSION:Filler rhinoplasty using a PMMA-based injectable filler is safe and effective. This is the first study documenting the use of PMMA for this indication. Longer-term follow-up is needed to demonstrate persistence of improvement.