Gluteal augmentation with hyaluronic acid filler: ultrasonography for long-term (20-Months) evaluation
Objectives: To access long -term durability and tissue integration of gluteal augmentation performed with a multilayered hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal filler in a small group of patients, through ultrasonographic follow-up. Also, follow-up occurrence of any adverse events, aiming to assess the long-term safety of this gluteal augmentation method.
Introduction: Gluteal augmentation with hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers is an emerging practice reflecting the increasing demand for aesthetic procedures beyond the face. However, assessing the durability and safety of this procedure is essential. This case series aims to investigate the long-term durability of gluteal augmentation using ultrasound, emphasizing the importance of follow-up to assess proper integration, absorption.
Materials / method: Three patients underwent gluteal augmentation using a multiphase hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal filler with high G prime. Follow-up imaging through ultrasound was performed at 6, 12 and 20-months, after procedure. Injected HA was monitored overtime, including product topography, echogenicity, tissue integration, characteristics and distribution. Surrounding tissue characteristics were also assessed. A multifrequency linear transducer (8–18 MHz) from LOGIQTM Pro (GE Healthcare, USA) was used with presets adjusted for skin ultrasound evaluation.
Results: The ultrasonographic follow-up revealed the presence of the filler in all patients throughout the follow-up period and can be used as a toll to monitor it. No signs of migration to adjacent areas were observed. In the 12 and 20-month follow-ups, performed on the same patient, the largest pocket found measured 14.9x 1.7x 6.6mm and 10.2x1.7x7.2mm, respectively. Color Doppler studies did not characterize anomalous flows. At 20-month FUP, some interspersed in the subcutaneous cellular tissue, with slight surrounding hyperechogenicity, In this follow-up, patients did not report any adverse events.
Conclusion: Although this assessment involved a small number of patients, ultrasonographic evaluation demonstrated to be an important tool to monitor body fillers. It can show the durability of HA over time. These findings may indicate the durability and safety of hyaluronic acid filler for gluteal enhancement, becoming a long-term treatment option for aesthetic improvement of the buttocks.
