Quantitative Assessment of New Frontiers in Dermatochalasis and Periorbital Hyperpigmentation Treatment: The Role of Cross-Linked Porcine Collagen

BackgroundCollagen dermal fillers have shown efficacy in addressing age-related changes in facial appearance. However, their potential in rejuvenating the periorbital region remains unexplored. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness, clinical safety, and patient satisfaction associated with the utilization of collagen dermal fillers in individuals with dermatochalasis and periorbital hyperpigmentation.MethodsThis study was reviewed and approved by the institutional review board of China Medical University Hospital (IRB No. CMUH107-REC2-157). Adults diagnosed with dermatochalasis or periorbital hyperpigmentation received periorbital injections of a sterile cross-linked highly-purified specific antigen free porcine dermal collagen (FACIALGAIN (R) Collagen Implant with Lidocaine, Sunmax Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Taipei, Taiwan) and were assessed for hydration, elasticity, pigmentation index, redness index, lightness value, and density with the DermaLab (R) Combo Multiparameter Skin Analysis System (Cortex Technology, Hadsund, Denmark) and Cutometer (R) Dual MPA 580 (Courage+Khazaka electronic GmbH, K & ouml;ln, Germany). Data was collected prior to injection and at 1 week, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks after injection. Patient satisfaction on volume augmentation, decrease in hyperpigmentation, persistence, and overall satisfaction were also recorded.ResultsA total of 12 samples each were recruited for dermatochalasis and periorbital hyperpigmentation. For dermatochalasis subjects, hydration of the periorbital tissue significantly increased at week 1 and 4 (p = 0.011 and p = 0.015). Elasticity decreased by week 4 and persisted until week 12 (p = 0.001 and 0.014). For periorbital hyperpigmentation patients, lightness value increased significantly starting week 1 (p = 0.016), tapering off at week 12. Elasticity decreased by week 4 and persisted until week 12 (p = 0.002 and p = 0.002). Median overall patient satisfaction was 4 out of 5 for the dermatochalasis group and 4.5 out of 5 for the periorbital hyperpigmentation group, with a mild but insignificant decrease by week 12.ConclusionsDermaLab (R) Combo and Cutometer (R) Dual MPA 580 are considered effective methods for evaluating patients undergoing dermal filler injections. The utilization of cross-linked porcine collagen dermal filler injections can serve as a minimally invasive approach to enhance skin laxity in dermatochalasis and address discoloration in periorbital hyperpigmentation. However, it is important to note that regular treatments may be necessary to sustain the desired outcomes.Level of Evidence IVThis journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/0026.