BACKGROUND: Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (RAs) used for weight management have introduced unintended facial changes only partially addressed by conventional volumizing fillers.
OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the mechanistic rationale and clinical evidence supporting poly-l-lactic acid Sculptra (PLLA-SCA) as a biostimulatory and regenerative treatment for GLP-1 RA-associated facial changes.
METHODS: This narrative review synthesizes mechanistic and clinical data alongside expert opinion regarding PLLA-SCA for GLP-1 RA-driven weight loss, focusing on its biostimulatory and regenerative effects across skin layers.
RESULTS: Poly-l-lactic acid Sculptra induces fibroblast recruitment and stimulates regeneration of collagen and elastin, and effects vasculature and adipose tissue, resulting in durable improvements in skin quality, elasticity, facial contour, and perceived age that persist for 2 years or longer. Clinical studies and real-world experiences demonstrate clinically meaningful corrections of midface and perioral volume loss, jawline contour, and radiance, including in patients with GLP-1 RA-related facial changes.
CONCLUSION: Poly-l-lactic acid Sculptra may help address GLP-1 RA-associated facial atrophy by supporting long-term regeneration and restoration of facial definition, contour, and skin quality. The effects potentially extend across all 3 skin layers affected by the GLP-1 RA phenotype, including atrophy and gauntness. Poly-L-lactic acid Sculptra offers clinicians an option to deliver durable regenerative treatment that helps restore facial aesthetics in this patient population.
