Facial Rejuvenation and Patients Satisfaction with the Fourth Generation of Aptos P(LA/CL)–Hyaluronic Acid Threads: A 12-Month Study

Abstract

Objective
New generation of biodegradable thread: polycaprolactone (P(LA/CL) copolymer monofilament thread coated by the shell composed
of nano- and microparticles of hyaluronic acid (HA) encapsulated into polycaprolactone (P(LA/CL) copolymer shell has
been lately introduced by Aptos company as the NAnoMIcroCApsules (NAMICA) technology. NAMICA, which utilizes particles
consisting of unstabilized (non-cross-linked) HA surrounded by P(LA/CL) nanofibers, securely fixed to lifting threads, is thought to
provide long-lasting biostimulating and rejuvenation effects. This study evaluates the 12 month-long skin quality improvement, and
lifting effects of the P(LA/CL)-HA threads produced with NAMICA technology on the middle and lower third of the face.
Research Design and Methods
Twenty-six (26) patients, women and men aged 30 to 65-years underwent a mid and lower face lifting using the 4th generation of
Aptos P(LA/CL)-HA threads created with NAMICA technology. The threads were applied on the right and left sides symmetrically
per 5 threads on each side of the face. Patients’ satisfaction and facelift were assessed at study follow-ups.
Main Outcome Measures
Skin quality improvement, midface lift, and patients’ satisfaction with the procedure outcome overall, and specifically, satisfaction
with facial appearance, skin, cheekbones and cheeks, lower face, and jawline were explored at 4, 9 and 12 months after the procedure
and compared with the scores given at the enrolment.
Results
Our results demonstrate that the NAMICA technology provides a significant skin quality improvement, and facial lift which is
preserved for 12 months from treatment. The skin quality parameters as wrinkles, evenness and redness improvement were observed
during 12 months after new generation threads implantation. The procedure is well-tolerated in all studied subjects with no
adverse effects or undesirable symptoms at later follow-ups. Patients’ satisfaction scores are kept significantly high for all measured
parameters.
Conclusion
This study supports the use of 4th generation of P(LA/CL)-HA threads with NAMICA technology to achieve and preserve an
improvement in skin quality, meaningful facial lift, and patients’ satisfaction for at least 12©months post-treatment.