Global Research Trends and Thematic Evolution in Injectable Aesthetic Medicine: A 25-year Bibliometric Analysis (2000-2025).

BACKGROUND

Injectable aesthetic procedures, particularly botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid fillers, have revolutionized minimally invasive facial rejuvenation. However, the global research landscape and thematic evolution of this field remain unclear. This study presents a bibliometric and thematic evolution analysis of injectable aesthetic medicine from 2000 to 2025.

METHODS

Bibliographic data were retrieved from the Dimensions database and analyzed using the bibliometrix R package. A total of 1153 English-language publications were evaluated for annual trends, journal distribution, keyword networks, and thematic transitions across 3 time periods (2000-2009, 2010-2016, and 2017-2025).

RESULTS

Global publication output showed exponential growth, particularly after 2017, reflecting increasing clinical and academic interest in minimally invasive rejuvenation. The most frequent keywords-hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin, complications, ultrasound, and artificial intelligence (AI)-highlighted the transition from material-focused studies to imaging- and technology-assisted precision aesthetics. Six major research clusters were identified, covering safety, anatomy, materials and technology, patient outcomes, ultrasound guidance, and AI-assisted analysis. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and Dermatologic Surgery were the most productive sources.

CONCLUSIONS

Over the past 25 years, injectable aesthetic research has evolved from empirical artistry toward evidence-based, technology-driven practice. Emerging trends emphasize vascular safety, ultrasound-guided injection, and AI-enhanced symmetry assessment. Future research should prioritize multicenter collaboration, standardized outcome reporting, and translational integration of clinical, material, and computational sciences to advance individualized, intelligent aesthetic medicine.