Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2006. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.Has there been any progress in restoring the collagen lost by various meds and/or is there any best way to increase the "fat loss" especially in the face? Is sculptra a good choice or a combo of face lift with sculptra?
There are several fillers out that can replace some of the volume that is lost in the face as a result of fat atrophy caused by HIV medications. Sculptra is the most available filler, and is fully FDA approved for treatment of facial wasting.
Sculptra causes increases in collagen growth, and can restore much of the lost volume. Some people get near 100% improvement with only a few treatments, yet other patients have more modest results.
I would discuss face lift procedures with a plastic surgeon. They can help, but if you are not at an age where you are "ready" for that procedure, it is a very expensive treatment, and sculptra alone might do the trick. Especially in older patients, face lifts can do wonders.
Other fillers commonly used include Bioalcamid, which is available in Mexico and Canada, but not the US, and medical grade silicone, as used in retinal surgery. If someone suggests black market silicone, usually administered by drag queens in apartments or hotel rooms, I would strongly advise against going that route.
061006
ASKD061004
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted grants from Boehringer Ingelheim, Elton John AIDS Foundation, John M. Lloyd Foundation, Roche and Trimeris, the National Library of Medicine, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2006. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content.