Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Poly-L-Lactic acid for Treatment of Cellulite in the Lower Extremities.

Background: Poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) is an injectable volumizer with biostimulatory properties used for volumetric structural rejuvenation in patients with facial fat volume loss but has increasingly been utilized for off-face applications.

Objective: The objectives of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled single center study was to assess the safety and effectiveness of PLLA for the treatment of lower extremity cellulite in adult women.

Methods: 31 healthy women were enrolled in the study. Eligible subjects received 3 treatments every 4 weeks with either PLLA (treatment group) or saline (control group) injections combined with subcision, into each of the glutes or thighs. Follow-up visits were at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. Assessments included live ratings, rating of standardized pictures by a blinded evaluator, patient questionnaires, safety, and tolerability ratings.

Results: At the 3 and 6-month follow-up, there was a statistically significant change in the global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS) compared to baseline as assessed by blinded investigators. Significant improvements were shown in the cellulite severity scale (CSS) as well as in the subject satisfaction questionnaires. Treatments were found to be tolerable, and no severe treatment-related adverse events occurred.

Conclusion: Repeated PLLA treatments combined with subcision are effective and safe in improving the appearance of cellulite. J Drugs Dermatol. 20(5): doi:10.36849/JDD.5380.