Author(s): Abdo Salomao Junior, Tiago Donizetti de Alfenas, Andre Viera Braz, Caroline Nabarrete Mourao, Julieta Corbett, Arthur Cassio de Lima Luna, Gabriel dos Santos Cunha
Objective: This study evaluated the use of cross-linked HA (EVOFill) for muscle augmentation.
Methods: The study was conducted with 48 patients of both sexes, aged between 22 and 40 years, without overweight, comorbidities, smoking habits, or oral medication use. Two types of hyaluronic acid (EVOFill Contour) were used: one for intramuscular filling and the other for subcutaneous tissue. The applications were performed in the gluteal muscles, quadriceps femoris, biceps femoris, calves, biceps, triceps, trapezius, and pectoral muscles using a hybrid technique, partially in the muscle and partially in the subcutaneous tissue. Applications were performed every two years. Additional treatments were performed every two months, if necessary, to correct asymmetries. Reapplications were conducted between 18 and 24 months.
Results: The results demonstrated a significant increase in muscle volume and a high satisfaction rate among patients and physicians after two years of treatment. Patients reported 100% satisfaction, and measurements confirmed the volume increase in the treated areas. Similar studies utilizing HA for gluteal augmentation also yielded satisfactory results, with participants reporting 100% satisfaction six months post-treatment, without adverse effects. HA fillers have proven to be highly effective, as evidenced by the data, owing to their excellent viscoelasticity, high water retention capacity, biocompatibility, and hygroscopic properties. Even though the use of HA for gluteal augmentation is considered safe, studies indicate that the safest site for injecting the compound is the subcutaneous fat. This is because, in this region, there are no vessels with a diameter greater than 2 mm or significant structures that could be susceptible to complications. In contrast, the intramuscular and sub muscular regions of the glutes contain nerves and blood vessels with larger calibers, rendering procedures in these areas riskier.
Conclusion: Despite the lack of results in the literature, our study confirms the efficacy and safety of cross-linked HA for muscle volume enhancement without adverse effects, highlighting the need for further research to expand the evidence base.
