10 REASONS WHY PLLA INJECTION PROJECTS ARE NOT SIMPLE

This article delves into the increasingly popular PLLA anti-aging injection projects over the past two years, examining them from three distinct perspectives: the aesthetic seeker, the medical aesthetics institution, and the injecting physician. Our primary objective is to provide an objective understanding of PLLA, acknowledging that both the supply and demand sides, as well as the regulatory aspect, are still far from being fully prepared. While there are undoubtedly individuals and institutions eager to embark on this journey, we urge caution to avoid undue negative impacts on the medical aesthetics market. We hope that all stakeholders in this industry will ponder the significance of these projects deeply and strive for responsible practices, infusing fresh blood into medical aesthetics rather than contaminating it further.

1. Quality Control is Paramount Regardless of Manufacturer Credentials

Manufacturers must adhere to the standards set for Category III PLLA injection fillers, exceeding the quality control benchmarks set by the China State Food and Drug Administration (CSFDA). Encountering clinical cases of inflammation due to residual organic solvents or pyrogens is unacceptable negligence. Manufacturers must uphold ethical responsibility for the contents of each vial.

2. Medical Institutions Must Ensure Compliant Procurement Channels

While seeking cost-effective materials is understandable for profit-driven medical institutions, blindly pursuing low prices can invite unscrupulous vendors to introduce substandard or expired products. Procurement teams often struggle to discern product quality, emphasizing the importance of securing a compliant supply source (meeting Good Supply Practice, GSP) and ensuring a secure distribution process to avoid customer complaints. Institutions launching PLLA projects should also confirm the availability of qualified physicians and comprehensive patient education. Gradual progress, aimed at building a solid reputation, will naturally attract profits.

3. Physicians Must Master Concepts, Techniques, and Undergo Sufficient Practice

We reiterate, "Are physicians ready?" Physicians must recognize that this highly individualized treatment requires extensive practice and follow-up to achieve proficiency. Operating with a "trial and error" mindset significantly increases the risk of failure. Our survey in Taiwan, where Sculptra is legally used, revealed that less than 20% of certified physicians continued to routinely offer PLLA projects in their institutions three years later, a testament to the saying, "Knowing is easy, acting is difficult."

4. Aesthetic Seekers Must Carefully Assess Suitability

With diverse motivations and treatment options available, aesthetic seekers choosing the PLLA anti-aging project must communicate thoroughly with their physicians to achieve long-lasting results. If physiological, psychological, or financial conditions are not aligned, alternative treatments should be considered. Insisting on an unsuitable project can lead to disappointment.

We hope that the entire industry approaches the still-maturing PLLA market with rationality and awareness. Proceeding with caution ensures longevity. This article serves as a shared reminder for industry leaders and aspiring professionals. We welcome your insights and feedback with profound gratitude.