Update on Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

Hyaluronic acids (HAs) have become the injectable filling agents of choice due to both their biocompatibility and ability to be enzymatically dissolved with hyaluronidase. Recent trends in facial analysis have resulted in injectors assessing the face in three dimensions and combining or layering different injectable products during the same treatment session. Quality of life measures confirm that patients are satisfied with the volume enhancements and facial rejuvenation they receive after injections. Increased understanding of the biophysics of HAs allows not only improved understanding of how the products act in vivo, but also allows for the manufacture of products with varying physical characteristics. Although the safety and efficacy of these products have previously been established in the scientific literature, recent studies describe both acute and chronic complications seen with these agents. In the future, HAs may be combined with tissue-engineered fibroblasts, which could improve the safety and longevity of these products.