Polyacrylamide gel injection for treatment of human immunodeficiency virus-associated facial lipoatrophy: 18 months follow-up.

BACKGROUND

Lipoatrophy of the face affects the quality of life and body image of individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy. The objective of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a permanent nonbiodegradable polyacrylamide gel filler, used for facial wasting rehabilitation.

METHODS

Thirty-two individuals positive for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) were enrolled in the study between January 2007 and January 2009 and treated using nonbiodegradable polyacrylamide gel injections for a facial wasting rehabilitation.

RESULTS

Local infection, foreign body reaction, and migration of the product were not observed during follow-up (18 months). Small, palpable, nonvisible nodules were recorded in 13 cases at the end of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Polyacrylamide hydrogel is an appropriate treatment option in restoring facial contours in immunocompromised people with HIV. Injections of large volumes of polyacrylamide gel (8 to 12 mL) are not associated with a high rate of complications such as infection and foreign body reaction and allow improvement in quality of life in a limited time.